Descriptions of types of saddles for horses, their pros and cons and how to choose
The saddle allows the rider to sit comfortably on the horse. To ensure maximum convenience, products are made in different types, specifically designed for use for a specific purpose. Let's consider the advantages and disadvantages of types of saddles for horses, purpose, specialization, what you need to pay attention to when choosing an element of harness and how to try it on a horse.
All saddles are specialized and divided into types according to their purpose.Let's consider military, sports and highly specialized.
Military
Designed for use in the army. Belong to the group of combatants and workers. The main advantage is that they are comfortable and allow you to ride on the back of a horse for a long time without getting tired.
Cavalery
Advantages and disadvantages
keeps the horse working for a long time;
convenience for the animal and the rider;
distributes the load evenly across the animal’s back, which reduces trauma.
heavy weight;
not suitable for sports.
Cossack
Advantages and disadvantages
the presence of a soft pillow that makes the trip comfortable;
you don't have to use spurs;
the best option for horseback riding;
convenient for travel.
bulky;
unnecessary parts that now have no practical use.
Officer's
This is a type of cavalry saddle, but more magnificent and solemn.
Advantages and disadvantages
convenience for the rider and animal;
the horse does not get tired;
distributes the weight evenly over the horse's back, so it does not injure him.
large weight and size;
used mainly at ceremonial events.
Sports
The name itself suggests that they are intended for use in equestrian sports. They vary in size, design, and materials used.
Dressage
It is designed specifically for use in dressage.
Advantages and disadvantages
deep soft landing allows the athlete to feel the horse’s back;
the animal also senses the rider’s commands well;
has the most comfortable design, better suited for footwork.
not suitable for other sports;
not suitable for universal use.
Competitive
Used in show jumping - overcoming obstacles.
Advantages and disadvantages
special design helps maintain balance while jumping;
soft and comfortable;
Suitable as a training exercise for those athletes who are learning to jump.
not universal, cannot be used in other types of equestrian sports;
As a specialized saddle, it is expensive.
Eventing
Advantages and disadvantages
due to the low center of gravity and raised pommel, it is convenient to cross-country or spike-chase at a gallop;
more versatile than other sports saddles.
not intended for use in other types of equestrian sports;
not applicable for travel, walks.
Racing
Used for saddle racing horses. The smallest and lightest.
Advantages and disadvantages
light weight, which is needed in order to extremely reduce the weight that the horse will carry in a race;
strong girths and harnesses, straps must support the weight of the jockey, who is standing and not sitting in the saddle.
not used anywhere else except in horse racing;
not intended for long term use.
Highly specialized
This group includes elements of harness with design features that are dictated by their origin or purpose.
Western
Advantages and disadvantages
sit comfortably for many hours without getting tired;
the weight is well distributed over the animal’s back;
used on pleasure horses.
due to the use of expensive materials it costs a lot;
not used in sports.
Bezlinchikovoe
Advantages and disadvantages
due to the lack of a frame, it can be placed on the back of any horse – young or with back problems;
allows the animal to move freely;
convenient for walking, used as a universal one.
does not provide strict contact with the horse.
Pony saddle
Advantages and disadvantages
versatility, convenience and safety for children;
animal and man do not get tired.
not intended for large horses.
Ladies'
Advantages and disadvantages
original design;
used by reenactors and enthusiasts of riding in such a saddle.
very uncomfortable fit;
unsafe, does not provide stability for the rider at speed.
Pack
Advantages and disadvantages
intended for transporting goods on horseback;
used for long treks or in mountainous areas.
used only for transporting cargo;
not common, rarely used.
Spanish
Advantages and disadvantages
can replace a saddle for classical riding;
does not interfere with the movement of the animal;
soft, comfortable;
accurately conveys human commands to the horse.
has peculiarities of leg work, which is noticeable when changing from a classic-type saddle.
Which one is better to choose?
First you need to pay attention to the dimensions, which should correspond to the back of the animal. The saddle should lie tightly, but not squeeze, not move when moving in any direction, and not rub the skin. After the ride, the animal should not feel discomfort.
Trying on a saddle on a horse
After the model has been selected, you need to put the saddle on your back and tighten the girth. Be sure to sit on a horse and ride at a walk and a light trot. If you sit comfortably, there are no abrasions on the skin, the horse is calm, the product can be used.
Every type of saddle is used for a specific purpose. This is reflected in the design and materials used. You can replace one with another, but it is better to choose one that is intended for use in a specific area.
