Dressage saddles refer to the seats fastened on the horses back, which are used by the riders in performing Dressage discipline. Dressage is a discipline that aims to develop the horses natural athletic ability and willingness to perform. It uses a standardized progressive training method. In a Dressage training or Dressage event, the rider commands the horse to perform a movement in a relaxed and effortless manner.

A Dressage saddle refers to a horse riding saddle that features a long and straight saddle flap. Its flap features a slight bend in the knee to emulate the leg of the dressage rider. Its deep seat and its pronounced knee block are some of its distinguishing factors. Dressage riders normally place Dressage saddles on top of a square, white saddle pad.

Dressage saddles are English saddles designed for English riding. English riding is a term used to describe a form of horseback riding that is seen throughout the world. One distinguishing factor of English saddles is that they do not have horns. Compared to other saddles, these are flatter with self-padding designs in the panels.

English saddles come in different types, depending on the use for which the saddles are made. Usually, they differ in the length and angle of the flaps, the depth of the seat and height of the cantle. Another example of an English saddle is the jumping saddle or the jump seat saddle. Let me briefly explain the difference between a dressage saddle and a jumping saddle.

A Dressage saddle is used in dressage discipline in which the rider sits more upright. So the Dressage saddle was designed with a longer stirrup as well as longer and straighter down saddle flaps. On the other hand, a jumping saddle is used for a discipline that involves jumping, where the rider needs shorter stirrups for extra support. This is why the jumping saddle is designed with a forward-cut flap.

To provide the rider with a deeper seat, a Dressage saddle is made with higher cantle as well as higher pommel. The jumping saddle was made with low cantle and so that they do not interfere with the rider’s jumping position.

Padding is also lesser in Dressage saddle as the rider needs to be able to freely move the lower leg. While in the jumping saddle, these padding are used to assist the rider.

On a Dressage saddle, the seat is much deeper than that of the jumping saddle to allow the rider to comfortably sit up in a relaxed position. Also, the seat is closer to the horses withers to help keep the riders center of gravity in the proper place. While on the jumping saddle, the seat is comparatively flat to give the rider more freedom of movement especially when jumping. Its seat is also positioned further back so that the rider is not pushed ahead of the saddle when jumping a fence.

In selecting a Dressage saddle, it is important that it fits you and your horse perfectly. To know what saddle will fit your horse, measure your horse from its hoof to its withers and then from its withers to its croup. Try to sit on several Dressage saddles to find one that is most comfortable for you.

If you are riding on more than one horse, try to find a saddle that will fit you and your horses. Do not buy a saddle for each horse. Instead, find a saddle that has a sufficient room between the gullet and the horses withers. Also, make sure that it is spaced over the spine evenly.

If you are on a tight budget, there are Dressage tack shops that sell used Dressage saddles. You can also find used English saddles in some English tack shops. Visit as many saddle shops as possible to become familiar with the brands, styles and prices.

Tags: Horses