Dressage saddles have a deep seat and the flaps are cut straight. This design helps the rider sit deeply into the saddle and provides close contact with the horse. This close contact allows the rider to give the horse precise instructions using finely tuned movements of the riders body, seat and legs.

A properly fitting saddle for a horse may be likened to a comfortable boot for the rider. If the saddle does not fit, the horse may exhibit displeasure while being ridden or performance may be compromised. Some horses will not bend or collect to their fullest potential.

Proper saddle fit can maximize your horse’s comfort and performance. A saddle can either encourage comfortable movement and clear communication between rider and horse, or it can result in discomfort and behavioral problems.

All Purpose English saddles are ideal for beginner competitions, pleasure riding and schooling. This saddle is popular with riders who show on the flat and in classes such as hunter over fences and hunter hack. The flaps on All Purpose saddles are more generously cut forward to enhance a rider’s ability to jump.

They are popular with trail riders as they are designed with medium depth seats for security. An additional plus for trail riders is that good quality all purpose saddles will have ample padding in the seat, making it very comfortable for racking up multiple hours in the saddle.

An A/P saddle is fine for trail riding. I’ve done trails in mine, lessoned, low level eventing in mine, I’ve even did pole bending in it once. At one point, a former trainer was talking going penning in whatever tack we had so it would have been my A/P.

When it comes to Quarter Horse English saddle fit, the struggle is real.