Instructions
Think about your horse and what work you will be doing together. Is your horse trained as a western riding horse, or is he used to being ridden English style? Think about whether you want to compete, or specialize in a certain discipline. If you have a good budget, you can consider buying more than one saddle. However, if you have a limited budget, it is better to consider one good quality second hand saddle that is suitable for a range of disciplines.
Decide on the type of saddle you want. If you decide on a western saddle, these are available in a range of sizes and widths, and must fit horse and rider. Aim for a saddle that fits your horse comfortably with the addition of a saddle pad underneath. It should be sufficiently large that it gives about 4 inches of space in front of the rider when mounted. The rider's back should be firmly but not tightly against the back of the saddle.
If you are going to compete, consider that certain types of competition require certain saddles. English saddles come in jumping, dressage and all-purpose styles. Jumping saddles have very forward cut flaps and flat seats to allow the rider to rise out of the saddle over jumps. Dressage saddles have long straight flaps and deep seats to encourage a deep, balanced position, while all-purpose saddles have a medium cut to allow both disciplines.
Make sure that the English saddle you are considering is a good fit. With a rider mounted, you should be able to insert four fingers vertically under the front of the saddle. When you look along the gullet of the saddle from the back, you should be able to see daylight. The rider should be able to sit squarely in the saddle without being tipped forwards or backwards, and there should be about 4 inches of space before and behind the rider.
How to Pick the Right Riding Saddle for Your Horse
Saddles are probably the most expensive piece of equipment in a horse owner's kit, so it's important to put some thought into choosing the right one. Saddles fall broadly into two groups -- Western and English. Western saddles are larger and broader, and designed to provide comfort for horse and rider over long periods. English saddles come in different styles for different disciplines, and are designed to allow the rider to sit in a more balanced and formal position. Because saddles are such an expensive investment, it always is worthwhile to consult a qualified saddle fitter when making the purchase.