Choosing the right saddle for your horse

Horse riding is a popular recreational activity both for fun and as a sport but there are many people that are put off trying mainly due to the myth that it can be uncomfortable riding on a horse and leaves you walking funny afterwards. These people have clearly not heard of the advice many equestrian people give that you need the right saddle for the right style of horse riding. Riding with the wrong saddle can be incredible uncomfortable and in some cases can be incredibly dangerous if you have an accident.

Firstly there are more than just one type of saddle and each one lends itself to particular styles of riding from horse racing to dressage there are different saddles for each style which can help the rider and the horse be comfortable as well as help you perform the tasks you are aiming to do.

Saddles for dressage are fit closer to the horse to increase the level of contact between rider and horse. This is important for dressage events where control is vital. Due to the variety of movements completed during dressage events the rider will need extra security to make sure that they are balanced and secure when in the saddle. It is for this reason that the pommel and cantle (the front and back of the saddle) are higher to provide extra support and keep the rider’s balance in the correct place.

Generally you will need a multipurpose saddle especially if you are just starting to learn horse riding. These saddles have the best stability features to keep you balanced whilst not sacrificing in other areas that other saddles such as jump saddles can have.

It is important to make sure that you know how to put the saddle on the horse, if you are an inexperienced rider then you should definitely get a professional or a stable worker to put the saddle on for you. A saddle that has been put on incorrectly can be dangerous for the rider and uncomfortable for the horse. It is clear to see when a horse is in discomfort as they will buck but also when you get on the horse they may lower their back. You shouldn’t let this happen a lot as over time the horse will associate the saddle with pain and be very reluctant to be ridden. Make sure you take good care of your horse and get the right saddle for the right use and you’ll be able to enjoy your riding experience.

You can buy saddles and other horse tack online with much equestrian equipment available for cheap prices on the internet