Different types of Saddles for your Horse

by Alok P. Equestrianly Yours

Learning all of the different tack pieces is one of the first things that new equestrians learn. The basic parts as most of us know are the bridle, girth, horse halter, saddle pad and arguably the most important piece of tack: the saddle.

Those who have been saddle shopping have come to learn that there is an overwhelming amount to learn about saddles from function, fitting the horse, fitting the rider to leather types to brands and their specific qualities.

Different types of saddles

THERE SHOULD BE A Ph.D. IN SADDLERY!!

Learning the different types of saddles and their purposes is a great place to begin the search!

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ENGLISH SADDLE AND WESTERN SADDLE

Starting at the differences between an English saddle and a western saddle is commonplace for beginner riders. Both the English and western saddle has a designated seat, leg flaps, cantle, pommel, skirt and a structural tree.

The differences are quite obvious, but mainly the English saddle is meant for jumping, the hunt and any other activity that requires a light/half seat. On the contrary, a western saddle is built for long days, ranch work, and gaming.

The history and development of the English saddle is a long journey. There were many different versions that existed throughout history, all which have seen many upgrades since, but the main purpose of every English saddle remains the same: the ability to have a forward seat.

WHAT IS THE USE OF HORSE SADDLES?

The function directly correlates to structure and form in saddlery. We will be exploring the unique characteristics of the all-purpose saddle, dressage and the close contact saddle as well as a few unique types.

Starting with what is probably the most popular, especially in lesson barns: the all-purpose saddle (A/P saddle). The all-purpose saddle is the most versatile out of all of the English saddles. A/Ps feature a slightly forward flap; this is appropriate for short stirrup work such as jumping. Although, the flap is not so forward that flatwork with slightly longer stirrups is not uncomfortable for the rider. The seat is comfortable for the rider and is a safe middle ground between a shallow jump saddle and a deep dressage saddle.