Understanding Saddles and How to Choose One

Contrast the seat depth and space available for the rider for the event saddle (left) and the dressage saddle (right)

The eventing and jumping saddles allow far more freedom for the rider. There is a requirement to attain more varied postures, and usually the rider's weight is carried further forward on the horse. Compared to the dressage saddles, there are the following areas of difference:

These two saddles share the same seat shape and fitting. They are both deep seated general purpose saddles. The incorporation of the knee and thigh roll into the flap (left picture) where they are visible is to some extent cosmetic. The rider and any observer will readily know whether they are serving any useful purpose in supporting the rider with this arrangement. The slight difference in flap shape may lend one or other style more suitable for riders of different leg lengths

Flat seated, straight in the flap and with minimal supporting features for the rider, this saddle has the showring in mind

All this brings us back to the other saddle types and their uses. I suggest not getting too wound up about the terminology used. Simply assess the merits of a saddle by analysing the presence or absence of the design features discussed above.

By doing this it will be pretty obvious that a show saddle, for instance, with its flat seat, straight flaps and minimal rider support, is designed primarily with aesthetic considerations in mind. These saddles are therefore suitable for only the one intended end use. On the other hand, Event saddles, General Purposes (GP, All Purpose Dressage (APD), General Purpose Dressage (GPD), Working Hunter, VSD and VSS saddles, are all more versatile. All these represent variations on a theme. Many have shared features, but subtly different dimensions, designed to perform best under different circumstances.

When assessing the suitability of a saddle, try to find answers to the following questions:

All the above can be assessed in the saddlers shop, both visually and by sitting on them (if the saddler allows it!). Then there is the subject of fitting. In other words, will the horse be as enthusiastic about your choice as you?

This subject isn't covered in this article but is every bit as important as everything discussed in relation to the rider. Suffice to say, take proper advice and seek a visit from a qualified saddle fitter. Be prepared to pay for his services, as this is money well spent. Be prepared, also, for the fact that you may be told that the saddle you liked best in the shop is deemed not suitable for your horse.

Lastly, keep an open mind when making this important and expensive purchase. Try out your prospective purchase under normal riding conditions, whatever you are allowed to. Make an informed choice and after parting with a large sum of money don't be left thinking "What if … …?".

Photographs courtesy Jenny Grzybowski

	Clover Hill Saddlery
	1st Floor 257 King Cross Road Halifax HX1 3JL Tel. 00 44 (0)1422 365890
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Bespoke saddle making, saddle supply and fitting Repair and servicing Retailer of saddlery and accessories
Charles and Rachel Morrish are a husband and wife team running a small but efficient business, offering a personal service with a commitment to the highest standards. Charles Morrish is a member of the Society of Master Saddlers, qualified as a saddle maker and saddle fitter. He is one of the few people outside Walsall who can, and does, make saddles - and one of the very few who makes each saddle in its entirety. Quality of materials and workmanship is of prime importance. This is reflected in the prizes he has won at the annual SMS saddlemaking competition.