Types of saddles for horses: descriptions, their pros and cons and how to choose

The saddle allows the rider to sit comfortably on the horse. To maximize convenience, products are made in different types, specially designed for use with a specific purpose. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of types of saddles for horses, purpose, specialization, what you need to pay attention to when choosing a harness element and how to try it on a horse.

Types of saddles for horses

All saddles are specialized, according to the purpose they are divided into types. Consider military, sports and highly specialized.

Military

Designed for military use. They belong to the group of combatants and workers. The main advantage is that they are comfortable and allow you to ride a horse for a long time without getting tired.

Cavalry

Pros and conskeeps the horse working for a long time;convenience for the animal and for the rider;evenly distributes the load on the back of the animal, which reduces trauma.big weight;not suitable for sports.

Cossack

Pros and consthe presence of a soft pillow that makes the trip comfortable;you can not use spurs;the best option for dzhigitovka;convenient for travel.bulky;extra parts that now have no practical application.

Officers

This is a kind of cavalry saddle, but more magnificent and solemn.

Pros and consconvenience for the rider and the animal;the horse does not get tired;evenly distributes the weight on the horse's back, so it does not injure him.large weight and size;used mainly for ceremonial occasions.

Sports

The name itself suggests that they are intended for use in equestrian sports. They vary in size, design, materials used.

Dressage

It is designed specifically for use in dressage.

Pros and consdeep soft landing allows the athlete to feel the horse's back;the animal also feels the rider's commands well;has the most comfortable design, better suited for footwork.not suitable for other sports;not suitable for universal use.

Show show

Used in show jumping - overcoming obstacles.

Pros and consspecial design helps to maintain balance during the jump;soft and comfortable;suitable as training for those athletes who are learning to jump.not universal, cannot be used in other equestrian sports;as a specialized saddle, it is expensive.

Eventing

Pros and consdue to the low center of gravity and the raised rear pommel, it is convenient to cross or spip-chase at a gallop in it;more versatile than other sport saddles.not intended for use in other equestrian sports;not applicable for travel, walks.

Race racing

Used to saddle race horses. The smallest and lightest.

Pros and conssmall weight, which is needed in order to minimize the weight that the horse will carry in the race;strong girths and harnesses, the belts must support the weight of the jockey, who is standing, not sitting in the saddle.not used anywhere else, except for racing;not intended for long term use.

Highly specialized

This group includes harness elements with design features dictated by origin or purpose.

Western

Pros and consit is comfortable to sit for many hours, while neither the horse nor the person gets tired;well distributed weight on the back of the animal;used on pleasure horses.due to the use of expensive materials, it costs a lot;not used in sports.

Linchless

Pros and consdue to the lack of a frame, it can be laid on the back of any horse - young or with back problems;allows the animal to move freely;convenient for walking, used as a universal.does not provide strict contact with the horse.

Pony saddle

Pros and consversatility, convenience and safety for children;animal and man do not get tired.not intended for large horses.

Ladies

Pros and consoriginal design;used by reenactors and riders in such a saddle.very uncomfortable fit;insecurity, at speed does not ensure the stability of the rider.

Bag

Pros and consintended for the carriage of goods on horseback;used for long crossings or in mountainous terrain.used only for cargo transportation;uncommon, rarely used.

Spanish

Pros and conscan replace a saddle for classic riding;does not interfere with the movement of the animal;soft, comfortable;accurately conveys the horse's commands to the person.has features of footwork, which is noticeable when transplanting from a classic-type saddle.

Which is better to choose

First you need to pay attention to the dimensions that should fit the back of the animal. The saddle should lie tightly, but not squeeze, not move when moving in any direction, not rub the skin. After the ride, the animal should not feel discomfort.

Trying on a saddle on a horse

After the model is selected, you need to put the saddle on your back, 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 scuffs on the skin, the horse is calm, the product can be used.

Any type of saddle is used for a specific purpose. This is reflected in the design and materials used. It is possible to replace one with another, but it is still better to select one that is intended for use in a particular area.