13 best equestrian saddles

Equestrian saddles are specialized seats designed for riders to sit on while mounted on a horse. These saddles play a crucial role in equestrian sports and horseback riding, providing comfort for the rider and stability for various riding disciplines. Here is an overview of equestrian saddles:

  1. Types of Saddles:

    • English Saddles: These saddles are commonly used in disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, eventing, and hunt seat riding. They are known for their lightweight design and minimalistic appearance. English saddles typically have a flat seat and stirrups that hang down.

    • Western Saddles: Western saddles are prevalent in Western riding styles like rodeo, trail riding, and western pleasure. They are more substantial and often have decorative elements, such as a high cantle and horn. Western saddles provide excellent support and stability for the rider.

    • Endurance Saddles: Designed for long-distance riding, endurance saddles offer comfort for both the horse and rider during extended rides. They often have lightweight materials and extra padding to reduce fatigue.

    • All-Purpose Saddles: These saddles are versatile and suitable for a range of riding disciplines. They combine features of both English and Western saddles, making them adaptable for various riding styles.

  2. Components of a Saddle:

    • Seat: The part of the saddle where the rider sits. It can vary in size and shape, depending on the saddle type.

    • Panels or Bars: The underside of the saddle that rests on the horse's back. These distribute the rider's weight evenly and ensure comfort for the horse.

    • Pommel: The front, raised part of the saddle that provides stability and support to the rider's pelvis.

    • Cantle: The raised rear part of the saddle seat that offers support and security.

    • Stirrups: Attached to the saddle, stirrups provide a place for the rider's feet and aid in balance and control.

    • Girth or Cinch: A strap that secures the saddle to the horse's belly, ensuring it stays in place.

    • Tree: The internal framework of the saddle that gives it its shape and distributes the rider's weight evenly.

  3. Saddle Fit: Proper saddle fit is crucial for the comfort and well-being of both the horse and rider. An ill-fitting saddle can cause discomfort, pain, and even injury to the horse. Saddle fit should be assessed regularly by a knowledgeable equestrian or saddle fitter.

  4. Materials: Saddles can be made from various materials, including leather, synthetic materials, and a combination of both.Leather saddles are highly regarded for their durability, comfort, and aesthetic appeal, but they may require more maintenance.

  5. Saddle Accessories: Riders often use saddle pads or blankets underneath the saddle to provide additional cushioning and protect the horse's back. Other accessories like breastplates, martingales, and saddlebags can enhance the riding experience.

In conclusion, equestrian saddles are essential equipment for horseback riding, and choosing the right saddle type and ensuring proper fit are crucial for the comfort and safety of both the rider and the horse. Riders should consider their riding style and specific needs when selecting a saddle.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best equestrian saddles on the market
  

Acerugs Beautiful Western Pleasure Trail Barrel Racer Show Horse Saddle Free TACK Set PAD Silver Crystals

Acerugs

Based on 197 reviews Check latest price
  • Saddles Will Come With A Signature Required For Delivery
  • Synthetic Cordura Material
  • Soft Padded Seat
  • Soft Synthetic Fleece Underside
  • Double Reinforced Fiberglass Tree

User questions & answers

Question: I have an anglo arabian with some high withers. i'm hoping a fqh bar will work for him? i'm worried about buying & then paying $ to shipping it back
Answer: A full QH bar might be too wide as the gullet does sit lower than a semi-QH bar. A semi-qh bar may work better in terms of wither clearance and fit.
Question: How do I find what size to get
Answer: Seat size is determined by rider weight. Here is a chart for western seat sizing: 14" = up to 90 lbs.15" = 90-130 lbs.16" = 130-170 lbs.17" = 170-200 lbs.18" = 200+ lbs.
Question: I have a haflinger mare 13.3 hands 800lbs. Do you think this would fit her
Answer: Yes, I believe it would fit her. The gullet is very wide and it did fit my TWH stallion which weighs over 1000 pounds.
Question: will this saddle fit fat quarter horse lol need wide tree
Answer: This does have a full QH bar (7" Gullet) so it should fit wider horses. If in the event it does not fit, you will have 14 days to return/exchange.

Product features

Crystal & Silver Accents

Our colored sets feature a beautiful crystal accent trim along the skirting and tack set. The silver Texas Star conchos also aid in giving these saddles a pop of bling!

Free Tack Set Included

Each saddle set comes with a free matching headstall, reins, breast collar, and saddle pad while supplies last!

Comfy Padded Seat

Our western saddle seats are thickly padded with a memory foam material that will keep you comfortable for long hours on the trails.

Light Weight

The synthetic cordura material makes these saddles super light weight and easy to handle. With the saddle weighing about 18 lbs, tacking up your horse is a breeze!

Tough 1 Ride - Behind Tandem Saddle for Western Saddle

Tough 1

Based on 78 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This saddle addition is constructed of tough Cardura nylon over shock absorbing foam with rigid thick foam padded cantle . The ride-behind tandem attaches firmly to the back of most Western saddles. Complete with stirrups and adjustable nylon leathers.

  • Ride behind tandem saddle addition
  • Constructed of tough Nylon over shock absorbing foam
  • Complete with stirrups and Adjustable Nylon leathers
  • Country of Origin:China

User questions & answers

Question: Can someone post up instructions on how to attach it to a western saddle
Answer: We attach ours to the billet straps or ring for front cinch. Then tighten it on both sides. The saddle itself butts up to the cantle.
Question: Will this work (western) tandem on a pony? Backwise would it fit or is it more appropriate for a horse
Answer: It takes up more room than you think. I think it would be better for a horse, but you could always try it! We had to play around with it at home before we took it out to actually ride. It takes a little bit of work to figure out how to attach securely. We bought 2 different brands so we could see which is best. They both are fine, but again, you need to practice at home so it's easy when you're ready. Enjoy!
Question: Is there a way this could be used on an English saddle as well
Answer: You would need rings to clip the buddy saddle to your english saddle. I don't think it would work as well. You would need d-rings on your english saddle.
Question: What is the weight limit on this? Can it be used by a small adult
Answer: I am not sure. My 70 lb. nine year old rode in it, but not for a long ride.

Riders Dream Synthetic Treeless Freemax Adult English Horse Saddle with Matching Girth+Leather Straps, Aluminium Stirrups |Color : Black| Size 14 to 18 Inches Seat Available

Riders Dream

Product description

Riders Dream All Purpose Synthetic Treeless Freemax Adult English Horse Saddle with Matching Girth + Leather Stirrup || Size 14 to 18 Inches Seat Available

Riders Dream presents you with the Freemax Treeless Adult saddle, made from fine quality synthetic suede material. Crafted on a flexible tree to insure the saddle adjust to the horses back and cause no unwanted pressure. The padded deep seat provides a comfortable ride for rider and horse. Lightweight with a Velcro system allows the seat to be removed for easy cleaning. It is the finest quality treeless saddle, handmade, suede, and synthetic matching girth, high quality, soft & hand washable synthetic suede PU molded seats and flaps, no hard components. Detachable seat with Velcro system can be used for normal dressage girth to fix the saddle on your horse. Comes with a changeable wither iron arch, so can be fitted on a variety of Horses. Detachable stirrups straps attached E-bars that riders can change on his comfortable position underside. Fix panels provide comfort to horses.

About Product

  • Brand:- Riders Dream
  • Product:- Horse Saddle
  • Available Sizes:- 14, 14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, 18 Inches
  • Material:- Synthetic
  • Package contents:- 1 - Synthetic Treeless Adult Freemax Horse Saddle, 1 - Matching Girth, 1 - Leather Straps, 1 set of Aluminum Stirrups, and 1 Nylon Rope Halter.

  • ✔️ Riders Dream Horse Riding Saddle. Size: - 14-18 Inches. Material: - Synthetic.
  • ✔️ Made With High Quality Micro Suede & Airtex Material. PU Molded Seats & Flaps. No Hard Components.
  • ✔️ Velcro Detachable Seats Comes With Adjustable Stirrup Leathers.
  • ✔️ 100% Hand Washable & Weatherproof. Totally Flexible.
  • ✔️ Can be used normal dressage Girth to fix the Saddle on your horse.

HILASON Western Bareback Horse Saddle Pleasure Trail Riding Treeless

Hilason

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • Adjustable & Removable Stirrup Straps. Comes with Nylon Stirrups.
  • Standard Western Rigging.
  • PURPOSE : Natural Horsemanship / Bareback / Trail Riding / Pleasure.
  • This is a light weight Western bareback pad. It gives excellent soothing functionality in addition to the cool and comfortable fitting to the horses back. It is light weight and porous, making it easier for the horse to recover dispensed energy and regulates heat accumulation.

    The entire structure and material is put together to ensure no pulling or collection of horses hair nor does it cause heat accumulation and extra perspiration. It is designed to reduce sore backs and keep the horse free in its movement. You are guaranteed to get the desired close contact feel and not be able to feel the shocks, at the same time.

    • Size: Large (140 Lb to 169 Lb Person ) Genuine Breathable ultra Suede in Brown color.
    • Multiple layers of High Quality Foam.
    • Soft Fleece Underside for Horse Comfort
    • Lightweight and Flexible Design
    • Very Comfortably Padded Ultra Suede Top

    User questions & answers

    Question: do you have close contact with the horse or do you feel perched
    Answer: I feel very close to my horse and can even feel the back muscles when he is round and engaged. When we are just doing a trail ride and he spooks the higher back is very supportive. The only down side to this saddle is it does want to roll when mounting from the ground because it has no tree. However, I just use a mounting block and it rides perfect and my old horse loves it.
    Question: How many inches is the seat
    Answer: Hi This is a universal standard size saddle.
    Question: Is this a 18"saddle? Or if not how many inches is it
    Answer: This is large Size. For 140 lb - 169 lb person

    Saddles & Such New 30" Harness Leather Rear Flank Billet Set Latigo Lined

    Saddles & Such

    Product description

    New set of 30" harness leather rear flank set with Latigo lined leather on inside. This is a western saddle replacement rear flank cinch billet set. This set is the tie flank set made of quality harness leather and lined with latigo leather on the inside. Made here in the USA with double stitching. Great brown color leather with leather ties, 1-3/4" (W) by 30" (L), Each side has 12 holes with about 16 1/2" of adjustment, * The rear flanks are harness leather with Latigo lining Double stitching down both side of the flank straps, * This is for the rear flanks only (cinch not included), Easy to install for replacement or just adding them to a saddle, Made in the USA, By Hill Leather Company

    • Double stitching down both side of the flank straps
    • Easy install for replacing or just adding them
    • The rear flanks are harness leather with Latigo lining
    • 12 holes with about 16 1/2" of adjustment
    • 1 3/4" wide and 30" long

    Acerugs 12” 13” Kids Youth SEAT Western Full Size Horse Saddle TACK Package Barrel Racing Silver Show Pink Purple RED Blue Crystal

    Acerugs

    Based on 28 reviews Check latest price
    • Saddles Will Come With A Signature Required For Delivery
    • Synthetic Cordura Material
    • Silver Show Accents
    • Headstall, Reins, and Breast Collar Included
    • Double Reinforced Fiberglass Tree

    User questions & answers

    Question: How much does this saddle weigh
    Answer: All saddle measurements can be found in the description. This saddle weighs about 10 lbs.
    Question: Does it comes with a saddle pad
    Answer: Yes, the saddle pad is included. The girth cinch, back cinch, and horse bit are NOT included and will have to be purchased separately.
    Question: Where are they made
    Answer: All our saddles are made in India. They are then tested and shipped out from Illinois.
    Question: How do you clean the saddle
    Answer: You can just use a damp cloth with some light soap to clean the cordura material. Be sure the let the whole saddle complete air dry before storing.

    Product features

    Tack Set Included

    Each saddle set will come with a matching headstall, reins, breast collar, and saddle pad while supplies last!

    The girth cinch, back cinch, and horse bit are NOT included and will have to be purchased separately.

    Thickly Padded Suede Seat

    Each saddle set is designed with a suede memory foam padded seat that offers comfort and grip while riding.

    Light Weight

    The synthetic cordura material is water resistant and super light weight! This makes it easy for young riders to handle the saddle and tack up their horses themselves.

    Silver Texas Star Conchos

    The matching silver inlay Texas Star conchos add the perfect amount of bling to make your little rider stand out in the show ring!

    Acerugs Hand Carved Western Leather Barrel Racing Pleasure Trail Horse Saddle &Tack

    Acerugs

    Based on 15 reviews Check latest price
    • 100% Premium Leather
    • Saddles Will Come With A Signature Required For Delivery
    • Headstall, Reins, and Breast Collar Included
    • Well Padded Fleece Underside
    • Well Balanced Fiberglass and Wood Tree

    User questions & answers

    Question: Which description is correct is this saddle full quarter horse bars or semi quarter horse bars
    Answer: This saddle has a 7" gullet with full QH bars.
    Question: Would this saddle fit my large pony. she is a belgian warmblood and she is a medium gullet. kind of a girthy mare
    Answer: This saddle is on a 6.5" standard semi-qh bar tree.
    Question: Does this fit a large male giraffe
    Answer: No, this is a horse saddle.
    Question: does this saddle come with a latigo/cinch strap, or should i purchase one seperate
    Answer: The saddle will come with the latigo and the billet straps for the cinch. The actual cinch itself is separate.

    Product features

    Deep Seat

    This deep seat offers support and grip while riding or racing the barrels.

    Tack Set Included

    A matching headstall, reins, and breast collar will come included with the saddle set.

    The girth cinch, back cinch, horse bit, and saddle pad are NOT included and will have to be purchased separately.

    Hand Carved Tooling

    This saddle features a classic hand carved tooling design.

    100% Premium Leather

    This saddle is made 100% natural cowhide leather.

    Wintec Kids Saddle

    Wintec

    Based on 23 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    WINTEC Kids Saddle Provides support and comfort for the young rider, ensuring good riding habits from the first day of riding. The perfect saddle for lead line and ponies! Features: Traditional Leather Appearance Knee Roll Provides Extra Security In-Built Handle Is Safe And Easy To Hang On To Double Girth Straps So You Can Use Conventional Girths Crupper Dee Fitting Flexible Fit Panels Ensure An Excellent Fit On Ponies Lightweight To Carry Wipe Clean Panel and Washable Top Less Fuss For Mum & Dad Color: Black Sizes: One Size Only

    • The Child’s Wintec offers exceptional comfort and support.
    • There is a built-in hand hold for added security.
    • Synthetic Equileather shell for durability and easy care.
    • This saddle ensures good riding habits from day one.
    • From Dover Saddlery: The leader in equestrian products for over 40 years offering the best quality horse and rider products throughout the US.

    User questions & answers

    Question: Is this adjustable with Wintec’s gullet system
    Answer: No but it's flexible. It would fit a variety of horses.
    Question: Will this fit a 10yr old kid
    Answer: Obviously depends on the size of the 10 year old, however the stirrups and seat would fit most 10 year olds I know
    Question: Would it fit a mini
    Answer: I think it would be fine. I use it on a 40" mini/pony cross and it works great. Think it would be fine on something smaller.
    Question: Would it fit a thouroughbred
    Answer: Adjustable panels will fit a horse or a pony.

    Wintec HART Isabell Dressage Saddle

    SADDLERY BRANDS INT'L USA LLC

    Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Wintec(R) Isabell Dressage Saddle with HART NEW AND IMPROVED! Designed for the dressage rider with serious aspirations, the Isabell was developed in consultation with World Dressage Champion Isabell Werth, and is the exact saddle she rides in today. Sink into her perfectly crafted, ultra-deep and grippy seat and feel perfectly balanced and poised to focus on your aids, a position able to be fine-tuned by moving the stirrup bar for your optimal comfort. Communication with your horse will be effortless as Isabell's high performance design enables your leg to easily find a natural groove for easy contact. For your horse, they will enjoy the super-soft panels which mold in and around their muscles, hugging their unique conformation and providing unparalleled freedom of movement for dressage training and competition. This saddle features all the benefits of Horse and Rider Technology... we call this HART. Features: Protective Cushioning: CAIR Cushion System Precision Custom Fit: EASY-CHANGE Fit Solution Ergonomic Flex: Elastiflex Tree Free Movement: Performance Panel Technology Superior Rider Performance: Comfort Seat Technology More Information about HART: The revolutionary CAIR Cushion System replaces traditional fillings in your saddle panel with air. There are two independently sealed air cushions within each saddle panel. The concept of air, as the ultimate in cushioning for your horse, is simple. Air, being a fluid medium, will constantly adapt to the horse's working muscles. This means that your weight will be distributed evenly across the entire length of the cushion, virtually eliminating pressure points. This results in freer movement, better carriage, and a happier horse. Together the EASY-CHANGE Gullet System and the EASY-CHANGE Riser System offer a total fitting solution for your horse's absolute comfort and your peace of mind. All adjustments are measurable, symmetrical and completely reversible, ensuring total confidence in your ability to custo

    • 17 Black/Adjustable Gullet

    User questions & answers

    Question: Will this accommodate an extra wide tree
    Answer: I put the white gullet piece in the Isabell, and it has worked fine.

    Bike Seat Cover Bicycle Saddle Cushion with Memory Foam for Women Man & Kids to Ride on BMX,Confort,Electric,Fixed Gear,Mountain,Road,Cyclocross,Tandem Bikes

    YINGTAI

    Based on 51 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Specifications:

    ●Material: Lycra

    ●Color: Red & Black

    ●Lining: Memory Foam & Gel

    ●Dimension: 11 x 7 inches (Length x width)



    Descriptions:

    a.-The gel bicycle seat cushion makes your seat more comfortable, you can bike ride much longer without the pain on your gluteus

    during the cycling, The groups riding brings more happiness and joys. So, Its essential to all Cyclists are having a optimal soft gel

    bike cushion cover to you.



    b.-You will be immediately attracted to this product because of its premium quality and ergonomic design. It is best for you as the design

    with extra padding. It fits your hard tail seat perfectly, no slipping, no chaffing, and you can ride comfortable on rail trails for over

    30 miles without soreness or tired sit bones.



    c.-It fits perfectly on your bike and has a draw-string so that it can suitable for any normal size seat in accordingly, equipped with a lock

    roap and easily removable when the bike is parked in the rain. This cover was easy to install and it stays in place.



    What's in the package:

    a.-1*Gel seat saddle cushion



    NOTE:THIS IS A NARROR BIKE SEAT COVER PLEASE MAKE DOUBLE CHECK YOUR SADDLE MEASURE BEFORE YOU ARE GONNA

    ORDER;THANKS FOR YOUR ATTANTION!


    • Lycra
    • OPTIMAL GEL BICYCLE SEAT COVER:- Structure with external durable lycra, gel inserted made of a semi-fluid polymer and memory foam the entire seat cover supports you get longer on joyful bicycling
    • PERFECT CONSTRUCATION:- Durable Lycra outer and Soft gel padded with center depression, inner Memory Sponge ; secures over standard bike seats up to 7" in width, 10.6" in length.
    • ERGONOMIC BREATHABLE DESIGN:- Enjoy healthy & happy long-distance Bike riding! Our bike seat cover allows thighs moving freely on riding, supports and distributes the pressure of a rider's weight, and also absorbs road shock and vibration, won't rub thigh. better protection. Plus hollow design, enhanced breathability. Absolutely worth buying
    • NARROW SEATS ONLY:- The YINTAI bike saddle cushion is only designed for narrow bike saddles. Not fit wide exercise stationary bikes or cruiser saddles. PLEASE CHECK DIMENSIONS before you purchase. Designed for seats less than 7 inches x 11 inches.
    • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED:- 60 Days guarantee and our team will give you satisfied answer if you have any questions on buying or after-sale.

    User questions & answers

    Question: Does it stay in place or tend to slide around
    Answer: the cover stays in itself place when pull the drawstring taut...the saddle cover fits snuggly to the body so that also aids in the lack of siding off
    Question: Can this bike seat cover put on or off easily
    Answer: you can take it off or put on with drawing rope
    Question: will this gel seat cover come with other colors
    Answer: this is not sure but I had a black one
    Question: Does this gel bike seat cushion fit for a mountain bike
    Answer: Yes,this is for the narrow seats and I had a one for my boyfriend's mountain bike

    Star Trading Company Leather Western Comfy Barrel Racing Pleasure Trail Horse Leather Saddle; 14 to 18 Inches Seat.

    Star Trading Company

    Product description

    A Completely 100% Genuine Saddle From Star Trading Company. Make sure to check out other saddles from Star Trading Company as well. Fast Shipping and 100% Safe Delivery. Best and Cheapest seller Available in India. Always provide us the feedback if you loved the products.



    ***** GIRTH CINCH, BACK CINCH, AND HORSE BIT ARE NOT INCLUDED *****



    This premium all-around saddle is perfect for any turning and burning at the rodeo, or out for a leisurely trail ride! This saddle features a comfortable, thickly-padded black suede seat that will grip you into the seat when going around the barrels. The saddle also features numerous ties for accessory attachments, such as saddle bags, for when you are out on the trail or around the ranch.



    Saddle Specifications:



    100% Premium Cowhide Leather



    Hand Carved Floral Tooling



    Padded Black Suede Seat



    Silver Studded Trim



    Shiny Silver Conchos



    Numerous Ties For Accessory Attachment



    Adjustable Heavy Duty Blevins Buckles



    Well Padded Fleece Underside



    Well Balanced Wood & Fiberglass Tree



    Saddle Measurements:



    Gullet:6 3/4 inches. Full Quarter Horse Bars.



    Skirt: 24-28"



    Horn: 3.25"



    Swell: 12"



    Cantle : 5 inches.



    Stirrups: 30 - 38"



    Weight: Approx. 27 lbs.

    • 🐴LEATHER : Premium Grade Cowhide Leather.✔️
    • 🐴Hand Carved Floral Tooling.✔️
    • 🐴Wood Base Tree Wrapped In Fiberglass.✔️
    • 🐴Non-Slippery Comfortable Suede Seat.✔️

    Tough1 Branson Roughout Barrel Saddle

    JT International

    Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Tough1 Branson Roughout Barrel Saddle Features full roughout leather accented with brown buckstitching and suede inlay seat. Tough1(R) Quick Change Stirrup Buckles, Angled Aluminum Stirrups, Complete Back Cinch. Mini size 8" Item Specifications: Bars: Mini Horn: 3" Swell: 12 1/2" Gullet: 7 1/2" Cantle: 5 1/2" Skirt: 24" x 25" Rigging: In-skirt Dee, Weight: 22 lbs. Youth sizes 10", 12" Item Specifications: Bars: Full Quarter Horse Horn: 3" Swell: 12" Gullet: 7" Cantle: 6" Skirt: 23 1/2" x 21" Rigging: In-skirt Dee, Weight: 20 lbs.

    • Date First Available :
    • Manufacturer :
    • ASIN :

    User questions & answers

    Question: I can't decide between 10" and 12," the saddle is for my 4 year old son who is more on the tall/slender side at the moment
    Answer: We got a 10 inch for our granddaughter and she has room to grown as well she tall and slender also

    Western Saddle Rough Out Leather Fender Replacement Horse Stirrup Hobble Straps

    DREAMWORLD EQUESTRIAN

    Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Hand made Leather Fender for Replacement on Western Saddle . Features extra nylon reinforcement on leather stirrup for Durability. Hand tooled classic style can be match any saddle . Brown Color thick strong Leather . Product Description Rough out Leather Fender 1 pair Hobble Strap Fender Features: All Leather Size 7.5" X 16" Longest 35" Shortest 28" Nylon reinforcement on Leather for durability Quick Adjust Blevin Buckles Hand Tooled Adult size Great for Show Performance , Barrel Racing ,Trail or Pleasure .

    • 100 % Leather , Rough Out
    • Adult Size - Shortest 28" - Longest 35"
    • Hobble Strap Include, Leather covered Blevin Buckles
    • Hand Made

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