Parts of a Dressage Saddle

Dressage is a type of riding that trains the horse and rider to communicate and develop strength, balance and flexibility. There are nine levels in dressage that range from the training level to the Grand Prix Special level. The dressage saddle is a particular style of English saddle that is designed to keep the rider properly balanced and enhance communication between the horse and rider. Most parts of the dressage saddle are the same as other saddles, with just a few minor differences.

  1. Pommel and Cantle

    • The pommel of a saddle is the highest point at the front of the saddle. The cantle is the highest point at the back of the saddle. Dressage saddles have higher pommels and cantles that are designed to keep the rider centered deep in the seat for good balance.

    Seat and Stirrups

    • The seat of the saddle is where the rider sits. A dressage saddle has a deep seat as compared to other types of English saddles. The deep seat is designed to keep the rider still with the legs close to the barrel of the horse where a jumping saddle has a shallow seat that allows the rider to move up to meet the jump. The stirrups of a dressage saddle are long and hang directly beneath the seat rather than placed forward on the seat. The stirrup bars on a dressage saddle often have an extra opening that allows them to be moved forward or backward on the saddle.

    Girth Strap and Saddle Flap

    • The saddle flap on a dressage saddle is longer and straighter than on other English saddles. The girth strap is located under the saddle flap and fits around the barrel of the horse and keeps the saddle on securely. While most English saddles have three girth straps, most dressage saddles only have two.

    Other Saddle Parts

    • The other main parts of the dressage saddle are the tree, the waist and the tree points. The tree is the solid wooden or plastic frame of the saddle. The tree size varies to fit different sizes of horses. The waist of the saddle is the narrowest part of the seat and its size is again dependent on the size of the horse. The tree points are the spots where the tree sits directly on the horse near the shoulder. The tree points must fit snugly without putting pressure on the horse.