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Posted on July 1, 2009 by Pat Brooks | Posted under Recreation and Sports
Dressage Saddles: Fit for Comfort and Freedom of Movement
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A Dressage saddle is an equestrian saddle that is designed with a long and straight saddle flap, which mirrors the leg of the dressage rider. Its long flap features a slight bend in the knee. It also has a deep seat and a knee block that is typically expounded. Dressage saddles are often placed over a square, white saddle pad. Dressage saddles are English saddles, which are used for English riding and in all the Olympic equestrian disciplines. English saddles differ from other saddle styles in its flatter appearance, the lack of horn, and the self-padding design of the panels. There are other kinds of English saddles aside from Dressage saddles, for example the jumping saddles or jump seat saddles. English saddles sometimes differ from among themselves in the length and angle of the flaps, the depth of the seat and peak of the cantle. These differences perform a part in the use for which a selected saddle is structured. Dressing saddles and jumping saddles are both English saddles but they have different constructions. A Dressage saddle is employed in dressage discipline in which the rider sits more upright. So the Dressage saddle was designed with a longer stirrup as well as longer and straighter down saddle flaps. On the other hand, a jumping saddle is employed for a discipline that involves jumping, where the rider needs shorter stirrups for extra support. This is why the jumping saddle is designed with a forward-cut flap. A Dressage saddle has higher cantle and pommel to give the rider with a deeper seat. While on the jumping saddle, the cantle as well as the pommel is low in order that they do not interfere with the rider's jumping position. Padding in Dressage saddle is generally smaller than in jumping saddle to allow the rider to move openly to give help to the pony. Inversely , padding in the seat and knee rolls of a jumping saddle will help the rider. On a Dressage saddle, the seat is much deeper than that of the jumping saddle to allow the rider to comfortably sit up in a relaxed position. Also, the seat is closer to the pony's withers to help to keep the rider's center of balance in the correct place. While on the jumping saddle, the seat is relatively flat to give the rider more freedom of movement especially when jumping. Its seat is also positioned further back so that the rider isn't pushed ahead of the saddle when jumping a fence. In selecting a Dressage saddle, it is critical you and your pony completely. To understand what saddle will fit your horse, measure your horse from its hoof to its withers and then from its withers to its croup. Attempt to sit on several Dressage saddles to find one that is most comfortable for you. If you ride more than one horse, you don't have to buy for every one. Choose a saddle which may fit both you and your horses. Try gel pads that will comply with your horses' shapes to help you in finding your saddle. Your saddle should fit in such a manner that there is adequate room between the gullet and the pony's withers. It should also be spaced over the spine evenly. If you are on a tight budget, there are Dressage tack shops that sell used Dressage saddles. You may find used English saddles in some English tack shops. Visit as many saddle shops as possible to become familiar with the brands, styles and prices. About the Author: Author Lisa Blackstone is an equestrian and has been in the horse business for a while. She also maintains websites about horses and horsemanship. For further info on saddles visit Barbie Horse Games and Horse Riding Games. About The Author: Author Lisa Blackstone is an equestrian and has been in the horse business for a long time. She also maintains websites about horses and horsemanship. For additional information on saddles visit Barbie Horse Games and Horse Riding Games. |
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