Big Saddles For Horses | What You Need To Be Safe & Comfortable

The Anatomy of a Big Saddle

A saddle is a piece of riding equipment that is placed on the back of a horse or other riding animal to provide a stable and comfortable seat for the rider.

A big saddle is typically one that is larger than the average size, and it is designed to fit larger horses or riders.

The key components of a saddle that contribute to its size include:

Seat

The seat of a saddle is the part where the rider sits. In a big saddle, the seat will be larger than in a smaller saddle, providing more room for the rider.

Flaps

The flaps of a saddle are the parts that cover the horse's sides and legs. In a big saddle, the flaps will be longer and wider than in a smaller saddle to accommodate a larger horse.

Panels

The panels of a saddle are the parts that rest on the horse's back and distribute the rider's weight evenly. In a big saddle, the panels will be larger and thicker than in a smaller saddle to provide more support for a larger horse.

Gullet

The gullet of a saddle is the channel that runs down the center of the saddle between the panels. In a big saddle, the gullet will be wider and deeper than in a smaller saddle to accommodate the larger spine of a larger horse.

In addition to these key components, a big saddle may also have other features that contribute to its size and comfort, such as wider stirrup bars or thicker padding.

It's important to choose a saddle that fits both the horse and rider properly, as an ill-fitting saddle can cause discomfort and even injury.

Types of Big Saddles

There are a few main types of big saddles:

Dressage Saddles

Dressage saddles are designed specifically for the discipline of dressage, which emphasizes precision, elegance, and harmony between horse and rider. A big dressage saddle will have a deep seat and long, straight flaps that provide a secure and stable position for the rider's leg.

The panels of a dressage saddle will be wide and long to distribute the rider's weight evenly and provide maximum contact with the horse's back. The gullet of a dressage saddle will also be wide to accommodate the horse's larger spine.

Western Saddles

Western saddles are commonly used for ranch work, trail riding, and western riding disciplines such as reining and cutting. A big western saddle will have a larger seat size to accommodate a larger rider, as well as larger, more rounded skirts to fit a larger horse.

Western saddles typically have a horn at the front of the saddle, which can be used to secure a rope or reins. The stirrups of a western saddle are typically wider and more substantial than those of an English saddle, providing more support and stability for the rider.

Endurance Saddles

Endurance saddles are designed for long-distance riding and endurance racing, and are typically lightweight and streamlined for maximum comfort and performance.

A big endurance saddle will have a larger seat size to accommodate a larger rider, as well as a wider gullet and flatter panels to distribute the rider's weight evenly over the horse's back. Endurance saddles may also have extra padding and shock-absorbing features to reduce pressure on the horse's back during long rides.

All-Purpose Saddles

All-purpose saddles are versatile saddles that can be used for a variety of riding styles, including dressage, jumping, and trail riding.

A big all-purpose saddle will have a larger seat size to accommodate a larger rider, as well as a moderate-sized flap that is suitable for a variety of leg positions. The panels of an all-purpose saddle will be flatter and wider than those of a dressage saddle, and the gullet will be wider to accommodate a larger horse.

In addition to these types of saddles, there are also specialty saddles available for specific riding styles, such as racing saddles for thoroughbred racing, and side-saddles for English riding styles that require the rider to sit sideways on the horse.

It's important to choose a saddle that is appropriate for your riding style and fits both you and your horse properly for optimal comfort and performance.

Choosing the Right Size

Measuring the Horse's Back

To determine the appropriate size of saddle for a horse, you'll need to measure the length and width of their back. You can use a flexible measuring tape or a piece of string to do this.

How To Measure A Horse's Back

Measure from the horse's withers (the highest point of the shoulder blades) to the back of the rib cage, where the saddle will rest.
This measurement will give you the length of the horse's back.
Next, measure the width of the horse's back by placing the measuring tape or string across the widest part of the horse's back, just behind the shoulder blades.

This measurement will give you an idea of the width of the horse's back and the size of the gullet that will be needed in the saddle.

Measuring the Rider's Seat Bones

To determine the appropriate size of saddle for a rider, you'll need to measure the distance between their seat bones. This can be done using a special device called a sit bone measurement pad, which can be found at most tack shops or online. Alternatively, you can use a piece of cardboard or a flat surface, such as a bench or chair, to determine the distance between your seat bones.

How To Measure Seat Bones

Sit on the cardboard or bench with your feet flat on the ground and your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
Lean forward slightly and then stand up, leaving a mark on the cardboard or bench where your seat bones were.
Measure the distance between the two marks to determine the width of your seat bones.

Once you have measured both the horse and rider, you can use this information to select a saddle that is appropriate in size and fit for both.

It's important to keep in mind that saddle fit is not only about the size of the saddle, but also the shape and style of the saddle, as well as the position of the rider's leg and the placement of the saddle on the horse's back. A professional saddle fitter can help ensure that both the horse and rider are properly fitted for the best possible comfort and performance.

Customization and Adjustments

Shims: Shims are pieces of material that can be inserted into the saddle pad or beneath the saddle to adjust the fit of the saddle. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as foam, felt, or neoprene, and can be used to adjust the fit of the saddle in areas where there may be gaps or pressure points.

Padding

Additional padding can be added to the saddle to improve the fit and comfort for both the horse and rider. This can include gel pads, foam inserts, or sheepskin covers. The padding can be added to the underside of the saddle or directly beneath the seat, depending on where the fit needs to be adjusted.

Adjustable gullets

Some saddles come with adjustable gullets, which can be widened or narrowed to fit different horses. This allows the saddle to be adjusted to fit a wider range of horses, without the need to purchase a completely new saddle. Adjustable gullets are commonly found in English saddles, but are becoming increasingly popular in Western saddles as well.

Flocking

Flocking is the material that fills the panels of an English saddle. It can be adjusted to improve the fit of the saddle, by adding or removing material as needed. This can be done by a professional saddle fitter, who will use a special tool to redistribute the flocking and adjust the fit of the saddle.

Professional Advice

It's important to note that saddle fit is a complex issue, and it's best to consult with a professional saddle fitter to ensure that both the horse and rider are properly fitted for optimal comfort and performance.

A professional saddle fitter will take into account a variety of factors, such as the shape of the horse's back, the position of the rider's leg, and the style and design of the saddle, to ensure the best possible fit.

Common Problems with Ill-Fitting Saddles

Discomfort for horse and rider

A saddle that is too small or too big can cause discomfort for both the horse and rider. A saddle that is too small can put pressure on the horse's back, causing pain and discomfort.

It can also cause the rider to feel cramped and uncomfortable, making it difficult to maintain proper position and balance. On the other hand, a saddle that is too big can cause the rider to slide around, making it difficult to maintain a secure position. This can cause discomfort and anxiety for both the horse and rider.

Uneven weight distribution

A saddle that is too small or too big can also cause uneven weight distribution, which can lead to pain and discomfort for the horse.

A saddle that is too small can put too much pressure on certain areas of the horse's back, causing soreness and even bruising. A saddle that is too big can shift around, causing weight to be distributed unevenly, which can also cause soreness and discomfort.

Impaired performance

A saddle that is too small or too big can impair the horse's performance. A saddle that is too small can limit the horse's range of motion, making it difficult for them to move freely and perform at their best.

A saddle that is too big can also limit the horse's performance, as it can make it difficult for the rider to communicate effectively with the horse and maintain proper balance and position.

Back and musculoskeletal issues

Over time, using a saddle that is too small or too big can cause a variety of back and musculoskeletal issues for the horse. This can include soreness, bruising, and even long-term damage to the muscles and ligaments of the back.

It's important to ensure that both the horse and rider are properly fitted for a saddle that is appropriate in size, shape, and design. This will help to ensure optimal comfort, performance, and overall well-being for both horse and rider.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right size saddle for both the horse and rider is crucial for optimal comfort, performance, and overall well-being. A saddle that is too small or too big can cause a variety of problems, including discomfort, uneven weight distribution, impaired performance, and even back and musculoskeletal issues.

With the right adjustments and customization, such as using shims, padding, and adjustable gullets, a saddle can be fitted to meet the unique needs of both horse and rider.

It's important to work with a professional saddle fitter to ensure that the saddle is properly fitted and adjusted, taking into account a variety of factors such as the shape of the horse's back, the position of the rider's leg, and the style and design of the saddle.

By taking the time to find the right size saddle, riders can enjoy a comfortable, secure, and effective riding experience, while ensuring the health and well-being of their equine partner.

Richard Sutherland

RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.