Horse Saddles Explained
The most often used saddles in the equestrian world for their respective events are the English saddle and the western saddle. In general, one or the other is used for the wide range of equestrian events in the western world. The English saddle and its variants can be seen in use for dressage, polo, horse racing, show jumping, saddle seat and hunt seat competitions. Featured in rodeos, trail riding and ranching is the western or stock saddle.
The English saddle developed its modern form in 18th century England. Used for fox hunting which was a popular sport at that time, the saddles had uncomfortable pommels and cantles that were were too high for the rider. What would later be known as the English saddle, a Frenchman developed in response to the need for a lighter saddle. With a lower pommel and cantle, it looked flatter and gave the rider and horse the abilty to move more freely.
The Western saddle, as a distinctly different type, derived from an Iberian saddle design used by Spanish cattle ranchers in the new world. With evenly distributed weight, it is much broader and heavier than the English saddle. With a horn to tie a rope, it also has a higher pommel and cantle, creating a deeper seat to give the rider comfort over long periods on the mount. It also has a horn - a round knob attached to the pommel - to which a lariat may be tied.
Many equestrian events use either the English saddle or a close derivative. Polo, show jumping, dressage, hunt seat, saddle seat and horse racing are included in this category. Horse Bridles The rider's form while atop the saddle is important in all of these competitions. equestrian rugs Being smaller and easier to move around on, the English saddle lets riders focus on their posture. treeless saddles
Associated with cattle ranchers, cowboys and the American west, the western saddle and related forms can also be found in Argentina and Australia. Trail riding and rodeo competitions use the Western saddle. It is most commonly used by private horse owners in America as well.
For all types of horseback riding events, one of these saddles is always in use.
