How to choose a saddle?

Ostania aktualizacja 26 January 2023

The new saddle is probably the most expensive part of horse riding equipment. When buying a saddle in the equestrian shop , several factors should be taken into account and you should be properly prepared so as not to waste your budget, and horse riding was a pleasure.

Spis

1 English saddles

2 First of all, the goal

3 Saddle tailored to the rider

4 Saddle tailored to the horse

English saddles

They are the most-used saddles used in English riding disciplines around the world. There are many different riding disciplines, including jumping, endurance and dressage. All require a saddle adapted to the specific discipline. For example, dressage saddles allow the rider to be in closer contact with the horse. The rider can transmit signals better. However, all saddles for English disciplines have one thing in common. They are designed to give the horse greater freedom of movement.

First of all, the goal

First of all, let’s consider how we will ride horses. Saddles are designed for many different disciplines. The riding saddle does not look the same as a jumping saddle. Such saddles also differ from the one intended for amateur riding. The owner of a young horse does not necessarily have to be a beginner. Lending a horse is quite common, so the rider can be experienced and compete, even at an amateur level, and have a new mount. Of course, it’s best to have a saddle created specifically for a particular discipline. We will be able to do all the tasks correctly. Therefore, make sure that we spend money on a specific, correct type of saddle. On the other hand, if you just want to just ride a horse, you can buy a saddle for general use. It fits all purposes and allows you to comfortably practice all disciplines.

Saddle tailored to the rider

The saddle must be tailored to the rider. We have to sit in it comfortably, without moving. It must also be large enough to fit our buttocks. We should settle down in the middle or lowest part of the saddle. The length should be such that the legs are correctly fitted to the saddle flap. Feet should hold comfortably in the stirrups and not slide down.

Saddle tailored to the horse

A good saddle is properly balanced and has an even surface underneath when it touches the back of a horse. The front of the saddle (the arched part that is above the withers) should be rough enough not to squeeze the withers, but wide enough to be low on the withers. We should fit two fingers between the girth and the back of the horse when we put on the saddle. It must be clean, but it’s not just about appearance, but also about safety and comfort. Soft skin is less prone to cracking and breaking. In addition, it less rubs, oppresses and irritates both the horse and the rider.

Leather stirrup

A good idea would be to buy high-quality leather stirrups. It’s not just about safety (those of poor quality stretch, break and puncture). Our comfort is also important. Our legs will be in close contact with this part of the saddle, so if the stirrup is soft and flexible, it will not pinch or bounce. We must remember about good lubrication.

Stirrups

We can divide them into ordinary and safe. The latter allow the rider to quickly get out of the stirrup in the event of an accident. Therefore, it will not be dragged along the ground if it falls. Curved stirrups or an elastic band are likely to be more durable than a saddle. In turn, flexible stirrups will require regular repair. In addition, it is harder to get out of them if necessary. The place to attach the stirrups to the saddle is also very important. It’s all about safety first. Many prefer ordinary stirrups because of their classic appearance. However, remember that safety is what counts first, not appearance (unless you want to take part in dressage competitions or shows). It is a good idea to buy Stirrup stirrups. They are widely used. They are made of rubber, and the hole is in the middle of the stirrups. They provide better grip and stability for the rider’s feet.

Girth

This small piece of fabric or leather holds the saddle on the horse’s back. It should be tight enough to hold the saddle while riding. However, it cannot be put on too tightly so as not to cause discomfort or pain to the horse. If we put it too loosely, it may slip. Some girths have elastic ends, allowing the horse greater freedom, but because riders tend to tighten elastic girths for greater stability. In this way, they limit the freedom of the horse and even aggravate its situation. After tightening, we should put three fingers between the girth and the horse.

Numnah

This saddle pad has several functions. Absorbs sweat, provides additional comfort and convenience for the horse. It is usually made of real or synthetic sheepskin or cotton. It has the shape of a saddle, but is slightly larger or rectangular. Saves the horse’s back during a jump. In addition, the horse does not lose concentration. Cannot press on the withers.

All these factors must be taken into account when choosing a saddle. Then horse riding will be really enjoyable.