Saddles & Horse Type

A well-fit saddle makes a happy horse. A happy horse makes a happy rider. Because different types of horses are built in different ways, the best-fit saddle is one that suits the type of horse being ridden. If you are unsure of which saddle style to purchase for your horse, consult a professional saddle maker before making an investment.

  1. Quarter Horse Types

    • Quarter horses and horses built like quarter horses drive from behind, so therefore, are larger in the back than in the front. Because of their conformation, horses of this build need particular saddles to feel comfortable. Western saddles with full-quarter horse bars are built specifically with the quarter horse type in mind. Wider-built English saddles are sometimes used on quarter horses as a matter of preference.

    Arab Types

    • Arabs and Arab-type horses are bred small for agility. Because their backs are more comfortable with a narrow-fitting saddle, Arab-type horses need care when saddle fitting. Many Western and English saddles have been specifically designed for these types of horses. These saddles are known simply as Arab saddles. When selecting a saddle for an Arab-type horse, pick one that will be light and formfitting.

    Gaited Horses

    • Gaited horses tend to have higher withers than most common horses; therefore, specialty saddles should be used to keep them comfortable. Western saddles for gaited horses have gaited horse bars. These saddles allow room for high withers, and are light enough in the back to allow free movement from the horse. English saddles have also been designed for gaited horses. These saddles also make room for higher withers and back-end movement.

    Ponies

    • Ponies or small horses should obviously be outfitted in smaller saddles, but because their conformation differs from horses, unique pony saddles should be used. Western and English pony saddles work well for smaller-backed ponies. These saddles are comfortable for small adults and youth. Some larger ponies can use horse-sized saddles; however, smaller ponies require small saddles in order to be healthy and happy.

    Horses with Back Problems

    • Elderly or injured horses can develop back problems. If the horse is still capable of being ridden, specialty designed saddles can be used to keep the horse comfortable. Consult a veterinarian before selecting a saddle for a horse with back problems. Treeless saddles are made without trees and have a flexible design that makes them comfortable for a horse with back problems. Treeless saddles are designed in both Western and English styles.