Horse Saddles for Children

Child-sized horse saddles, or pony saddles, as they are also known, are smaller versions of adult saddles that make it easier for children to ride horses. Though many children interested in horseback riding often learn using standard, adult-sized saddles, using a child-sized saddle has many benefits. Horse saddles for children are available online and many tack and horse supply stores. Pony saddles require the same accessories as adult saddles, including saddle blankets.

  1. About

    • Child-sized saddles are scaled-down versions of adult saddles and have the same features, including a seat, horn, cinches, skirt and stirrups. The most important features of a child saddle are the smaller seat and shorter stirrups. These allow the child to sit more securely on top of the horse, while her feet meet the stirrups. Child saddles are available in both Western and English models so children can use them for all riding styles.

    History

    • It is not known when the youth saddle was developed, though children throughout history have been riding bareback or on adult saddles. For instance, many Native American tribes would tie children onto adult saddles to guarantee their security while riding. Ancient Mongolians were also said to have developed small saddles used for child jockeys. European royalty also developed a smaller saddle for their children. The child version of the Western saddle was developed in the 1800s.

    Benefits

    • A child-sized saddle has many benefits for the beginner or novice child equestrian. Since the pony saddle has been tailored to suit a smaller body, the child will feel more secure on the smaller saddle than on an adult-sized saddle. This allows the child to feel more in control of the horse and focus her energies on riding. Additionally, the shortened stirrups allow the child's feet to set adequately in the stirrups, which also gives a sense of control. Riding on a smaller saddle with more control will promote good riding habits, which can be used throughout your child's riding career.

    Considerations

    • Since children grow fast, if you are planning to purchase a pony saddle, you will want to get an appropriate size that is small enough for your child, while allowing plenty of room for him to grow into it. Most pony saddles have a seat of approximately 13 to 15 inches, with adjustable stirrups of 28 to 32 inches. The weight of the saddle may be an additional consideration. Because of the smaller size of a pony saddle, most weigh 15 pounds or under. If you would like your child to be able to saddle the horse herself, purchase a lightweight saddle that she can lift.