Help and advice

Choosing the Best Lightweight Saddle for Your Horse

Selecting the right lightweight saddle can improve comfort, balance, and performance for both you and your horse. Whether you're schooling, training, or competing, a well-fitting, lightweight option helps reduce pressure and allows for freer movement.

But how do you choose the right one? Here’s what to consider when finding the best lightweight saddle for your riding needs.

Discover the benefits

Why lighter saddles can make a big difference

A lightweight saddle can ease the strain on your horse’s back, especially during longer sessions or for horses with a more sensitive build. Lighter saddles also tend to offer better contact, giving riders a more connected feel in the saddle. If you're working with a young horse, refining your position, or simply prioritising comfort, these saddles offer a smart, horse-friendly solution.

The Childeric DGP Dressage Saddle is a prime example — crafted from calfskin leather, it's incredibly light and designed to help the rider sit correctly on their seat bones with its wide twist and deep seat.

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How to choose the perfect lightweight saddle

Fit for both horse and rider

When choosing a lightweight saddle, your horse’s shape and your own position should guide the decision. Consider your discipline, the length of your horse’s back, and any conformation quirks such as a rising croup or short back.

The Amerigo HC Dressage Saddle is ideal for horses with a rising croup and limited space behind the withers. Designed to position the rider’s weight correctly, it aids freedom of movement through the horse’s neck and back. It's light, wool-flocked, and perfect for maintaining close contact.

Training tips for a lightweight horse

Support performance without pressure

If you’re working with a naturally lighter-framed horse, it’s even more important to reduce excess weight and ensure good saddle fit. A bulky, ill-fitting saddle can limit the range of motion and create pressure points, potentially leading to behavioural issues or physical discomfort.

Lightweight saddles, especially those with adjustable gullets and flocked panels, help customise the fit. The Kent & Masters S Series Jump Saddle offers both. With a square cantle and open seat, it's light, versatile, and adaptable, making it a good choice for a range of horses and jumping styles.

Finding the right riding style

Match your saddle to your activity

A dressage rider won’t need the same features as someone who regularly jumps. That’s why it’s important to match your saddle’s design to your main discipline. A lightweight monoflap dressage saddle, like the Childeric DGP, helps deepen your seat and stabilise your pelvis, while the Kent & Masters S Series is ideal for riders wanting freedom over fences with security in the leg.

Think about what you spend most of your time doing in the saddle — this will inform your choices and ensure lasting comfort and performance.

How can we help?

At Sheepham Saddles, we stock a wide selection of lightweight saddles, all thoroughly checked for condition and fit. Whether you’re looking for a close contact option or a versatile jump saddle, we’re here to help you find the right match for you and your horse.

We also offer a 5 Day UK Trial, giving you the chance to ride and test your saddle at home, in real conditions, before committing to a final choice. It's a simple, flexible way to ensure both fit and comfort are just right.

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Posted on May 20th 2025

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