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Choosing the Right Types of Saddle for Horse Riders
Every horse and rider partnership is wonderfully unique, and the saddle you choose should reflect that!
From the shape of your horse’s back to your own riding style, the right saddle plays a key role in balance, comfort and performance. The right fit helps distribute pressure evenly, allows your horse to move freely, and gives you the support you need in the saddle.
On the other hand, a poor fit can cause discomfort for both horse and rider, restrict movement and make it harder for you to sit correctly or feel secure in the seat. That’s why it’s so important to match saddle type and fit, rather than relying on guesswork or convenience.
General purpose saddles suit a range of activities
Versatile designs that support everyday riding
General purpose (GP) saddles are a popular choice for riders who want to enjoy a variety of disciplines without switching between different saddles. They’re designed to give balanced support for both flatwork and light jumping, with a medium-depth seat and forward-cut flaps that allow for freedom of movement. A well-designed GP saddle helps you stay centred while schooling, hacking, or popping over fences.
The Kent & Masters Low Profile Compact GP offers a neat example of this kind of flexibility – with a compact seat for smaller riders, adjustable gullet for ongoing fit, and a forward-enough cut for mixed activity. It’s a reliable choice for those who want a single saddle that supports both confidence and comfort across different types of work.
Dressage saddles offer balance and stability
Designed for flatwork and precision riding
Dressage saddles are built to help the rider maintain an upright position and a longer leg. Typically, they offer a deeper seat and straighter flaps, which encourage a close, stable contact with the horse. These features support better communication through the rider’s seat and leg aids, which is key in dressage schooling.
Some models in our extensive range also offer advanced fitting features. The Kent & Masters Dressage Saddle 17.5" Adjustable Black includes surface-mounted thigh blocks for stability, plus multiple girthing options for improved saddle balance.
The Albion Revelation Adjusta Dressage 17.5" M Black meanwhile, adds the close-contact feel of a monoflap design, with wool-flocked panels and external knee blocks for rider support. Both provide structure without restriction, helping you maintain position while still allowing that all-important feel and responsiveness.
Jump saddles allow freedom over fences
Supportive shapes that free up movement
Jump saddles are built for mobility! Their forward-cut flaps and flatter seat give the rider room to shorten the stirrups and move into a two-point or jumping position. This helps maintain balance and allows the horse to stretch over fences. A good jump saddle will offer enough security through the knee and thigh blocks without limiting movement.
The Albion 17" Jump MW Brown is a well-balanced option for riders who need dependable support without too much bulk. Its dual flap design offers structure and adjustability, while flocked panels help maintain comfort for the horse. Whether you’re schooling at home or heading out to competitions, a properly fitted jump saddle gives you and your horse the space to move confidently.
Show saddles focus on shape and presentation
Subtle design with maximum elegance
Show saddles are designed beautifully to complement the horse’s conformation and allow for neat, unobtrusive rider aids. Their straight-cut design highlights the horse’s shoulder and encourages a longer, quieter leg position. A good show saddle offers minimal bulk under the leg, helping the rider stay in close contact without interfering with the horse’s outline.
The Symonds Show Saddle 18" M Brown is made with English leather and suede for grip and comfort. It also features broad flocked panels and a cut-back head to accommodate higher withers, ensuring a balanced fit even on horses with more shape. It’s a wonderful choice for the show ring where turnout and control are equally important.
Why correct fit is just as important as saddle type
Comfort, movement and rider balance depend on it
Even the best saddle type will fall short if it doesn’t fit correctly. That’s why we always recommend working with a professional saddle fitter who can assess your horse’s shape and advise on the right options.
Elements like gullet width, panel shape, and seat balance all contribute to the overall fit. Poor fit can result in soreness, behaviour changes or uneven performance, while a well-fitted saddle supports better engagement and comfort.
At Sheepham Saddles, our 5-day UK trial gives you the time and space to assess the fit and feel of your chosen saddle with the support of a fitter. You can try up to two saddles, ride in them at home, and return the one that doesn’t suit.
Find the right saddle with expert support
We stock a wide range of high-quality second-hand saddles across all major disciplines, including Dressage, Jump, GP and Show. Every saddle is inspected before being listed, and we’re happy to help you narrow down the best match for your horse and goals. If you’re looking for something specific, you can also use our Request a Saddle service to help us locate a saddle that matches your needs.
We know how important it is to get both fit and function right. Our team is always here to help you find the saddle that works for you!
Posted on August 28th 2025
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