Types of saddles for horses are classified by purpose. Since horses are used in various fields of activity, specific equipment is selected for each purpose. Saddles differ in appearance, dimensions, materials of manufacture. The result of exploitation of the animal directly depends on the selection of ammunition.
Horse saddle
Classification of saddles by purpose and their difference
The first saddles appeared simultaneously with the birth of riding. Since then, the principle of fastening has remained unchanged, but the design of the product has undergone significant changes. When fitting equipment, the height of the animal is taken into account, so experienced breeders recommend ordering saddles according to individual parameters.
The saddle is considered the most important piece of equipment for riding horses. Incorrect design leads to discomfort for the rider and horse, and sometimes even causes pain to the animal. Before buying, you need to understand what exactly you plan to do, how long you are going to use the product.
It is important to determine the needs of the horse and the rider, take into account the external conditions under which it is planned to use the equipment. For example, a sports saddle is designed to provide maximum comfort for the horse, since it takes all the load on itself. In turn, racing or pack saddles are more rider-oriented.
Important! The breed of the animal plays a decisive role in the selection. So, a saddle designed for a pony cannot be put on an adult horse.
Types of saddles for horses with a description
Depending on the purpose of the application and the time spent by the rider in the saddle, there are several types of designs.
Varieties of saddles for horses
Vaulting
Products are intended for exercises on a horse moving in a circle at a trot or gallop. In agriculture, such structures are not used. Vaulting saddles consist of a wide animal base adjacent to the body, a pad and girths. Additionally, they are equipped with two pairs of handles in front and behind, which ensures the safety of the athlete during complex tricks. Now such devices are produced only in Russia.
English
This type of uniform is sometimes called “sports”, because it is more often than other models used for riding. It is characterized by a complex structure, which differs depending on the purpose: competitions, sports training, education. The differences between the English models for different sports are in the “depth” of landing, the configuration and length of the wing, the height of the forward pommel. Advanced athletes are advised to purchase such products to order, since universal options are not always convenient.
When designing a product, it is important to take equal care of the horse and the rider. After all, the animal has to perform maneuvers at high speed, overcome significant distances for a while, and make sharp turns. Products are made of durable, high-quality materials, which creates maximum comfort for both participants in the process. The basis of a sports saddle are cushions and a sweatshirt – they are made in such a way as to reduce pressure on the animal’s spine and protect its skin from damage.
pack
Initially, the device was created for the transportation of bulky goods on horseback. The very first products of this type were a pillow stuffed with soft hay, to which wooden elements were attached. Modern pack saddles resemble shelf models without the top. The structures are complemented by supporting elements and girths, which allow you to securely fasten the luggage, avoiding its falls.
Shelf and its varieties
Shelves are the basis of shelf equipment – curved boards, from which the name of the structures comes. This type of uniform is considered the oldest. Shelf saddles were in demand when the horse was the most popular means of transportation.
Shelf saddle
There are several of the most popular types of shelf equipment.
- Cossack seat. From the name it is clear that the uniform appeared in the territories protected by the Cossacks. Constructions of this type are similar to the ammunition used by nomadic peoples. Products are equipped with a soft cushion, which creates additional comfort for the rider. When designing the Cossack saddle, preference was given to the convenience of the rider – this is confirmed by short shelves, which are not always comfortable for the horse.
- Shepherd’s seat. Gained popularity in the regions, the main field of activity of which was agriculture. There are a lot of product configurations: they were often made to order, and subsequently the saddles were passed down from generation to generation. Regardless of the appearance, the main requirement for this type of equipment remained the same – to provide comfort to the rider and horse throughout the “working” day.
- Lady’s seat. Ammunition became widespread in the 14-15th century, when hunting became an entertainment not only for the stronger sex, but also for noble ladies. It was believed that it was indecent for a girl of high birth to sit in a “male” saddle; women’s outfits of that time also created additional inconvenience. In the 20th century, when women began wearing trousers, saddles quickly became a thing of the past, but are now regularly revisited at themed shows and horse shows. Compared to the “predecessors”, modern designs are suitable for long-term use.
- A cavalry saddle, sometimes referred to as a “combat” saddle. Used by military cavalry. The main purpose of the outfit is to allow the horse to easily endure high loads, because it holds not only the rider, but also his equipment. The product log is made of solid materials (most often wood), which guarantees the durability of the finished structure. Additionally, devices were equipped with mounts for weapons and food, since cavalry campaigns often took a long time.
- Walking seat. The material for the manufacture of shelves is plastic, which reduces the weight of the finished fixture. Specialized products for runs are more often used abroad – in the CIS countries, run models are usually replaced by cavalry or Cossack saddles.
Reference. Some types of saddles are practically not used in our time in connection with the mechanization of agriculture. However, they can often be seen in movies or stylized equestrian performances.
Specialty Saddles
Not all types of saddles are equally popular. Among them, it is worth noting more specific varieties.
Western
Western – devices that were used by American cowboys. Products were made taking into account the structure of the human body, which allowed riders to feel comfortable in the saddle for a long time. The deep landing made it possible to hold on astride without the help of hands. Such saddles were equipped with mounts for weapons, a lasso. The western configuration is also comfortable for the horse. Even with a sharp change of direction, stop or acceleration, the animal does not feel discomfort.
Treeless
Due to the absence of a rigid base, such uniforms fit snugly against the body of the horse. Treeless models are considered the most comfortable option for a horse – the animal practically does not feel such a saddle on itself. Therefore, designs are recommended for horses that have suffered back injuries.
For pony
Externally, the model does not differ from standard products, with the exception of compact dimensions and the ability to adjust the design to the dimensions of the animal. For ponies, cowboy, treeless, sports models are produced.
pony saddle
Popular types of saddles in Russia
On the territory of the Russian Federation, universal models are in high demand, which are suitable for the following activities:
- Horseback riding.
- Horse riding, tourism.
- Hunting.
- Exhibitions.
- Sports training.
Such products are used by amateurs who do not participate in serious competitions. A good option for professional use is the triathlon saddles. Outwardly, they are similar to universal designs, but are more suitable for maneuvers.
A common type of uniform for the army and mounted police is officer saddles, which can be seen at solemn processions. The smooth curves of the design allow the rider’s weight to be evenly distributed, which creates a comfortable environment for the horse. Officer models are equipped with mounts for placing weapons and other necessary things.
Traditionally, saddles for horses are made from natural leather, but there are also cheaper synthetic varieties. Which option to choose depends on the frequency of use of the product and the personal preferences of the owner. Some equestrian enthusiasts prefer to make their own saddles – this is a good opportunity to choose the right size and fit for their requirements. However, the process takes a long time, requires practical skills and rare materials. Therefore, the best way out would be to purchase a finished structure in a specialized store.
