How To Choose the Right Size for a Horse Riding Saddle Seat? 

How To Choose the Right Size for a Horse Riding Saddle Seat? 

 

Buying a saddle, whether new or used, can be thrilling. There are so many alternatives, but they may also be incredibly overwhelming.  One of the most crucial factors to consider when purchasing a saddle is size. Ensure the harness doesn’t restrict your horse’s movement or sit awkwardly on its back.  Additionally, make sure its seat is comfortable for your body. We’ll go over how to select the ideal horse riding saddle seat size in this blog post. So, use this quick guide before entering your neighborhood store or making an online purchase.

Choosing The Right Size for Western Saddle 

You can get a pretty broad sense of saddle sizes from the following:

  1. Youth: 12 to 13 inches
  2. Small adult: 14 inches
  3. Average adult: 15 inches
  4. Large adult: 16 inches
  5. Extra-large adult: 17 inches

Choosing the correct saddle size would seem very simple if the saddle seat size was stated. Other factors besides seat size affect how well a western saddle fits.  You’ll notice noticeable variances in the fit when you sit in saddles of different brands and types that are the same size. You might discover that a ranch saddle requires a 15-inch width but that a 14 1/2-inch Circle Y barrel racing saddle fits comfortably.

How to Take a Western Saddle Seat Measurement

The seat size of a western saddle is simple to gauge. Use a tape measure that retracts. Start the measuring tape behind the swell, then extend it across the seat to the cantle’s front. The seat size is that dimension.

Choosing The Right Size for English Saddle 

English saddles are used in most English riding disciplines, including hunter, jumper, dressage, eventing, fox hunting, and trail riding.  While English saddles must be designed differently for each riding discipline, they are always made to give the horse the most mobility and flexibility possible.

Here’s a Broad Idea of the Saddle Size that Both Kids and Adults Can Expect:
  1. Child or Small Adult: 14-16.5 inches 
  2. Average Adult: 17 inches
  3. Large Adult: 17.5-18 inches
  4. Extra-Large Adult: 18+ inches

Remember, this is only a guideline, and you should determine the correct saddle size based on your measurements and personal preference. You’ll want to see what feels the best for you, allowing you the ability to move as you need.

How to Take an English Saddle Seat Measurement

Measuring your thigh from your knee to your buttocks is the most accurate technique to determine your seat size.

  1. Sit on a chair with your feet flat on the floor, knees at a 90-degree angle, and buttocks touching the chair’s back.
  2. Measure your thigh from the back of your knee to the back of your buttocks using a measuring tape.

Still not sure about the size of the horse riding saddle seat? Our equestrian experts are here to help you decide; send us a message here.

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