Riding sidesaddle is one of the most elegant, pleasurable and secure forms of riding a horse. I hear many people say they would not like to ride sidesaddle, as it appears to be so precarious in the way you are seated. But, having ridden sidesaddle for many years, I can say that actually, I feel more secure with my right leg wrapped around a solid structure (the head), than I often do when riding astride!
I am so pleased that sidesaddle riding is gaining in popularity – and would you believe, even men are now riding sidesaddle – as it allows a rider with stiff hips and joints to ride comfortably and safely, in cases where, in all probability, the rider would have to sadly give up riding astride.
We at Good Apple Equine Consignment always seem to have at least one side saddle in stock, and so I thought it would be useful to give you some basic information as to how to measure yourself for a side saddle, and how to measure the sidesaddle, to ascertain whether it will fit you and/or your horse.
Much of this information has been gathered from a reliable source: ie: the NEA SideSaddle Association.
When side saddles were first invented, they didn’t have the head and leaping head you see on most sidesaddles today. The rider sat even more to the side of the horse and her feet rested on a small platform called a ‘planchette’.
Nowadays, leaping pommels are required on all saddles except those used in 2-gait costume classes, and balance girths are required on all English sidesaddles. Western sidesaddles should be stabilized with double girth, draw strap or balance girth as necessary.
Breakaway and/or safety stirrup of modern size is recommended.
Seat Width Averages
10″ – 11 1/2″ Child
12″ – 12 1/2″ Slim
13″ – 13 1/2″ Average
14″ – 14 1/2″ Full
Estimated Seat Length Averages
19″ – 20″ Short thigh length
21″ – 22″ Average thigh
23″ – 24″ Tall or full figure
Tree Width – Barrel size
Gullet Width – Shoulder size
5″ – Medium
5 1/2″ – Wide
6″ – Extra Wide
Average Set
average size leg
Wide Set
full leg (can be padded up for slimmer leg)
Bent Pommel
(acute angle)
impairs rider’s position and comfort
A saddle fits the rider when
1.There is approximately 3-4 fingers space behind her in the seat.
2.The “set” of the pommel allows her right thigh to parallel that edge of the sidesaddle.
3.She “centers” easily in the saddle.
4.She has a feeling of ease and comfort.
Proper fit for the rider
is determined by a combination of factors:
1.Seat Width
2.Seat Length
3.Pommel Placement
(COURTESY: N.E.A. SIDE SADDLE ASSOCIATION)
Prepared by: Good Apple Equine Consignment August 2014