English Saddle Sizing Guide

English saddles are the most frequently used type of saddle for Olympic equestrian events. The smaller saddle allows the horse greater freedom to move, important for events such as showjumping, and exposes more of the horse's body, useful in events such as dressage. However, the sizing of English saddles can be confusing to those more familiar with Western saddles. It is important to get the sizing right for the comfort of both rider and horse.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the distance from the saddle nail -- the nail at the back of the saddle -- to the cantle, or peaked front, of the English saddle. This measurement is known as the tree size' and is important for determining the right size of English saddle.

    • 2

      Choose a tree size that will be comfortable for you. Tree sizes below 17 inches tend to be for junior riders or slight adult riders. 17-inch and 17.5-inch English saddles are the norm, while 18-inch saddles are suitable for a larger rider.

    • 3

      Check that the width of the saddle is also suitable. English saddle width is usually denoted by an N (narrow), M (medium), W (wide), or XW (extra-wide). However, sometimes the saddle width is represented numerically with 2 equivalent to N, 3 equivalent to M, 4 the same as W and 5 equivalent to XW.

    • 4

      Try different saddles on your horse to make sure it fits snugly. The saddle should be flat against the horse's back with the saddle flaps resting against its shoulder. The saddle should compliment the form of the horse rather than act as a hindrance.