Types of Saddles Used at Justin’s Place

Oct 18

Dressage Saddle

This saddle is similar to an english all purpose but positions a rider’s leg longer and their seat deeper into the saddle. It has a lower pommel (front) and higher cantle (back). The flap where the stirrups lay is longer and straighter, allowing a riders legs to be more straight and gently wrapped around their horse.

Western Saddle

A western saddle has more of an interior, sturdy frame that disperses the weight of the rider across more surface area than an english saddle. It has a horn and raised back, which can help children feel more secure.

Bareback Pad

The purpose of a bareback pad to is allow the rider to ride bareback with a small amount of cushion and protection from getting covered in hair! Bareback pads allow for movement on the horse like riding sideways or backwards. For more impulsive children, it limits complications in an emergency dismount, such as getting stirrups caught or rubbing legs on stirrup leathers.

English- All Purpose

This is a “baseline” saddle for most participants. It provides a basic structure of support and stirrups that are adjusted to their leg length. Participants ride best int his saddle with bent knees and heels pushed down. This would be an ideal saddle for kids learning beginning to advanced riding skills using their seat, legs, voice and reins.

Vaulting Pad

Vaulting pads are made of thick wool and provide moderate support for riders, while being very soft and comfy! There are no stirrups for balance support through the riders feet. One of the top benefits is the space and ability to move freely while on the horse. Vaulting pads can be used with a variety of surcingles. At Justin’s Place, we use a training surcingle (completely flat), therapeutic riding surcingle (low flat handles) and a vaulting surcingle (large bent handles). Vaulting pads are used in therapeutic riding lessons and vaulting lessons. During vaulting, the pad can be utilized by 2-3 riders at one time!

Allie Barnett