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The different types of saddle available for horses

Horse saddles are the most expensive piece of equipment you’ll buy after the horse itself There are many styles of saddles, but you should choose the one that you’re comfortable with, fits the horse properly and suits the kind of riding you will do.
It is not necessary to have a different saddle for every activity you and your horse participates in, so select the activity you do with the most regularity and choose the saddle type which suits it best
There are three main types of saddles for serious riders: English, Western and Australian. There are other variations within these three main types
English saddles are used by Olympians in equestrian events, designed to give the horse freedom of movement. This saddle is known to be the most comfortable for both the rider and the horse The Hunt Seat saddle and Cutback saddle are example of this type. Hunt seat saddle are designed for jumping while Cutback can accommodate greater movements of front legs and shoulders
Western saddles are known as the cowboy saddle, designed to keep a rider secure on an uneven ground. This saddle provides riders the most security, and is often put on working horses The Ranch saddle is known as the most versatile of this type.
Australian saddles are made for the rider’s comfort, usually used by people who are confident of their riding abilities They are originally English saddles, of which the most dramatic change was having the addition of poleys, or kneepads in front of the saddle.
The saddle’s fit on the horse is crucial, whatever the type of saddle you choose Ill-fitting saddles can result to both health and training problems, and can even make your horse behave badly. The breed, overall size and unique physical features must be considered in choosing the saddle The main feature of the saddle which dictates whether it will fit your horse or not, is the width of the gullet. Too wide, and the saddle will press down on the withers while the saddles will pinch if the gullet is too narrow It should comfortably clear a horse’s withers, allow for free movement of the shoulders, be the proper length and shape for its back, and be well balanced to provide good weight distribution.
Try on as many saddles as possible Choose a saddle that feels comfortable to you and allows the proper riding position. The size and angle of the seat, stirrup position, cantle height, fork height and angle, and weight all affect your perception of comfort Too small can make you bump against the pommel at every stride, while too large can make it difficult for you to maintain your position.
Consider your budget as well A new saddle can be custom-made for you to fit your horse with the maximum comfort possible, but can fetch a hefty price. Used saddles can be much cheaper. But as much as possible, spend as much as you could afford Better trust a branded yet trusted product than a cheap unnamed one. Never settle for a second-rate saddles, as they are crucial to a safe and enjoyable riding

Bridleways Saddlery supplies all types of saddles as well as horse riding boots , horse riding body protectors and equestrian cortaflex .