The choice of your horse's saddle must be meticulous to guarantee you the best possible experience. The reason for this is that a rider is most of the time seated when riding. Several parameters have to be taken into account in this regard. To help you, here are some guidelines to follow to make the best choice.
Choosing your saddle according to the type of riding
The choice of the saddle depends above all on the type of riding you are going to do. Indeed, there are different types that correspond to the needs of each rider. Among them, there is the jumping saddle which is generally lighter and with a small thickness. It allows, among other things, to ride in balance during jumps thanks to their short forward facing cleats.
The dressage saddle is more comfortable. For this purpose, it has longer and straighter quarters that will allow the rider to place his legs properly. The seat also has a hollowed-out seat for good sitting and greater stability.
For those who enjoy hiking, there is a type of saddle called a trekking saddle that fits well. It also favours comfort, as its large seat allows for a better sitting position. It is also designed to ensure a good distribution of the rider's weight. This specificity helps to protect the horse from tiredness, because rides can last several hours.
Choosing the right saddle size
Once the type of saddle has been defined, it is important to consider the size of the saddle. This is an important feature when choosing a saddle because it guarantees comfort. Generally, the size is expressed in inches and depends on the rider's height. This varies from 15 to 19 inches. A 16 inch saddle, for example, is intended for children of about 16 years of age.
The position of the quarters should also be checked. Even if the size of the saddle suits you, the quarters may not fit you. Although they are generally standard, there are exceptions such as people who are too tall or too short.
Taking into account the horse's morphology
The choice of the saddle must also be adapted to the morphology of the horse on which it will be mounted. The saddle must fit the shape of the horse's back in order to obtain a comfortable and safe seat. In particular, you must take into account the withers of your horse to see if it is a tight tree or a wide tree that you need.
It is important to choose the right saddle for your horse, as a bad saddle could be detrimental to its health. In the long term, choosing the wrong saddle can put your four-legged friend at risk.