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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Leather Horse Saddle
Leather saddles have long been the standard for riders across all disciplines, and with good reason!
A high-quality leather saddle offers comfort, durability and a refined feel that synthetic alternatives often can’t match. As a natural material, leather moulds to both horse and rider over time, which can help improve connection, balance and confidence in the saddle. From dressage to showjumping, a well-fitted leather saddle supports clear communication and encourages good posture without compromising the horse’s movement.
Many riders also favour leather for its classic look and feel. There’s a sense of tradition in choosing a saddle made with care, from natural materials, by experienced craftspeople. When properly looked after, a leather saddle can serve you well for many years, making it a brilliant investment in both comfort and performance.
Leather saddles stand the test of time
Built to last with the right care
Perhaps the biggest advantage of choosing a leather saddle is its durability. A good leather saddle, if properly maintained, can last for decades. The natural strength of the material makes it resistant to stretching and tearing, while its flexibility allows it to adapt to the horse’s back as they grow or change shape. This makes leather saddles ideal for riders looking for a long-term investment that won’t lose its structure or support too quickly.
The Black Country Wexford 17.5" W+ Brown is a wonderfully reliable leather saddle for jumping and general riding. It’s built using traditional methods with English leather and wool-flocked panels, offering support without sacrificing feel. Designed on the Freedom Tree, it provides both security and softness, which makes it a favourite among riders who want lasting quality and comfort in one.
Looking after your leather saddle
Simple care routines make all the difference
A well-made saddle deserves proper maintenance. Leather needs regular attention to keep it supple, clean and free from cracking. Dirt, sweat and moisture can break down the fibres of the leather if left unchecked, so it’s important to clean your saddle gently after each ride. A soft cloth, warm water and mild soap are usually all that’s needed for day-to-day cleaning. For deeper conditioning, use a quality leather balm or oil every few weeks depending on usage.
Keeping your saddle dry and storing it in a cool, well-ventilated space will also help it last longer. It’s worth investing in a cover when your saddle isn’t in use – even better if it’s stored on a proper saddle rack to prevent warping or flattening. With just a bit of care, your saddle will stay strong and comfortable for years to come.
The importance of fit when choosing leather
A well-fitted saddle benefits both horse and rider
Even the most beautifully made saddle won’t perform well if it doesn’t fit properly. Saddle fit affects your balance, your horse’s movement, and your ability to ride with ease. When choosing a leather saddle, you need to consider seat size, gullet width, panel shape and overall balance. These features must match both your horse’s conformation and your own body proportions to create a comfortable, functional setup.
The Amerigo HC Dressage 17.5" M+1 Black offers a good example of how modern leather saddles are designed to meet more complex fitting needs. Made from calfskin, it’s shaped to suit horses with a rising croup and limited space behind the saddle area. It positions the rider in a way that helps engage with the horse without compromising space or stability.
At Sheepham Saddles, we offer a 5-day UK trial to help you test fit in real-world conditions. This gives you the chance to assess how the saddle performs on your horse before making a final decision.
The benefits of riding with a leather saddle
Support, feel and tradition in one
Leather saddles give riders a unique level of feedback and support that’s difficult to replicate with synthetic materials. They have a certain weight and balance that helps ground the rider and stabilise their position. Leather also adapts gradually to your shape, creating a more natural contact between your seat, your aids and your horse.
The Childeric DGP Dressage Saddle 18" MW Black is a lightweight monoflap model made from supple calfskin leather, known for encouraging a well-aligned seat. Its wide twist and deep seat are especially helpful for riders aiming to sit deeper and closer, improving both security and communication. Saddles like this are carefully shaped to enhance feel while still providing enough structure to support a balanced ride.
Quality matters when buying leather tack
A long-term investment in craftsmanship
The quality of leather used in a saddle makes a significant difference. Look for full-grain or calfskin leather, which is soft yet durable, and allows for greater contact and control. High-quality saddles are made using time-tested techniques by experienced saddlers who understand the needs of both horse and rider. These saddles might carry a higher upfront cost, but they often offer better longevity and performance than cheaper alternatives.
The Ideal Deal Jump 17.5" MW Black combines traditional English leather with practical features like moveable blocks and a semi-deep seat. This makes it both adaptable and comfortable, giving you the confidence to ride in a range of settings without constantly adjusting your position. Investing in good-quality leather tack like this can improve your riding experience and give you peace of mind when it matters most.
Find the right saddle with expert support
Finding the perfect leather saddle takes time and care, but the right guidance can make the process easier. At Sheepham Saddles, we stock a wide selection of used leather saddles from trusted brands including Albion, Kent & Masters, Black Country Saddles, Bates and Ideal. Every saddle is carefully inspected before it goes on sale, and we’re always happy to answer your questions about fit, features or suitability.
Posted on August 28th 2025
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