Horse saddles are incredibly varied. Saddles differ in size, fit, purpose, feel, and material. Whether you’re after general-purpose, western, half breed, dressage, or jumping saddles for sale, selecting the right saddle for your needs is by far the most important part. This is especially true for those approaching their first-ever saddle purchase.
Your saddle not only shapes the experience for the rider but also for the horse as well. Making the wrong selection has the potential to cause serious harm and discomfort for everyone involved. For a quick guide for buying a dressage saddle for your horse.
Exploring the Major Styles
As noted above, the saddle market includes a wide variety of alternatives designed to match different types of riding. With this in mind, let’s give a quick rundown of the most prevalent styles and their primary function.
- All-Purpose (trail riding, recreational riding, fox hunting, and cross-country)
- Western (farming, barrel racing, reining, and cutting)
- Half Breed (a cross between a traditional stock and western saddles)
- Jumping & Dressage (show jumping, racing, and equestrian purposes)
- Stock (well-suited for agricultural means and extensive use)
Once you have determined the correct style for your riding needs, the next phase involves a guarantee for the proper size and measurements.
The Horse
A good saddle gently nestles the horse’s back and prioritizes their ongoing comfort and movement. Of course, jumping, dressage, and racing saddles combine these elements alongside their very own unique requirements. A bad saddle, on the other hand, causes serious discomfort and hinders a horse’s natural movement.
Signs to Look For
If the saddle is uncomfortable or ill-fitting, your horse will exhibit a variety of hints and signals to let you know. Common behavioral indications include the following:
- Your horse bites when being girthed
- Your horse runs away when you attempt to fetch them
- Your horse swings their head to give you ‘the look’
Visual/physical signs may appear in the form of
- White spots/saddle sores
- Increased perspiration
- Ruffled hair under the direct saddle area
The Rider
When fitted with the wrong saddle, horse riding is far from a fun experience. Consequences include physical pain, functional issues, and safety concerns. Of course, many of these problems can be alleviated with the help of a professional saddle fitting service.
Given the precise and personalized result you can attain, saddle fitting is often well worth the money. This specialized assistance is particularly valuable for first-time saddle buyers and horse owners. You may also hear this service referred to as on-site spot flocking or ‘tweaking’.
Signs to Stay Aware Of
In a similar vein to the horse, your body will also exhibit signs that indicate an ill-fitting saddle. If left unaddressed, these issues will only get worse over time. Issues range from operational to physical. Operational indicators include
- Tipping forward while riding
- Feel left behind
- Contact between the flap and the top of your boots
- Disjointed knee and thigh placement
On the other hand, physical signs typically surface in the form of joint pain, back pain, bruising, and general discomfort while riding. Essentially, if the saddle isn’t a correct fit, your body will be sure to let you know.
Professional Saddle Fitting
A professional saddling service is an invaluable resource. An expert will not only be able to recommend the most appropriate style, but also fit the saddle to exact size and measurements. Overall, this is an excellent approach that works to resolve concerns over discomfort and injury.
Using the wrong saddle can further exacerbate existing back pain, neck pain, or hip issues. Whatever style of riding you partake in, saddle fitting is designed to make each journey as comfortable as possible for both the rider and the horse.
Saddles can appear comfortable at first, yet ultimately prove to be a poor fit over time. If this occurs, your best bet is to reach out to a professional for a readjustment. Purchasing a brand-new dressage saddle that better fits your needs may also be on the cards.
Purchasing Your Saddle
Buying a brand-new saddle is exciting, regardless of the style, purpose, and size. If affordability is a concern, second-hand saddles are also an excellent option. Remember, you can always stop by your local saddlery, see what’s in stock, arrange a saddle fitting or speak to an expert.