Saddle Size Calculator

Rider Height (ft/in)	Saddle Size (inches)
4’10” – 5’2″	14 – 15
5’3″ – 5’6″	15.5 – 16.5
5’7″ – 5’10”	17 – 17.5
5’11” and taller	18 and above

FAQs

How do I know what size saddle I need? The size of saddle you need depends on factors like your height, inseam length, and personal preference. Proper fit is essential for comfort and proper riding posture.

What size saddle do I need for my height? Saddle size can vary based on individual measurements, but a general guideline is to consider a saddle size around half of your inseam length.

What size saddle seat should I use? The saddle seat size should allow you to comfortably fit within it without feeling cramped. It’s typically determined by your height, inseam, and riding discipline.

What is the most popular saddle size? Saddle sizes can vary by discipline and personal preference. Common sizes range from 15 to 18 inches.

Do you buy a saddle to fit the horse or the rider? Ideally, both the horse and rider should be considered when choosing a saddle. A well-fitting saddle benefits both for comfort and performance.

Is it better for a saddle to be too big or too small? A saddle that’s too small can cause discomfort and restrict movement, while a saddle that’s too big might not provide adequate support. It’s best to find the right size for a proper fit.

What is the most accurate saddle height? The most accurate saddle height is one that allows your legs to hang naturally and comfortably with a slight bend in your knees when your feet are in the stirrups.

What size saddle for a man? Saddle size for a man varies based on individual measurements, like height and inseam. It’s important to find a size that offers a comfortable fit.

How do you know if your saddle is too big? Signs that a saddle is too big include difficulty maintaining proper balance, feeling loose in the seat, or having excessive movement when riding.

Can a saddle be too big? Yes, a saddle that’s too big can lead to poor rider position, discomfort, and difficulty maintaining proper riding form.

Do I need a 17 or 17.5 saddle? The choice between a 17 or 17.5 saddle depends on your measurements and comfort. Trying both sizes and seeking expert advice can help you decide.

Is a wider saddle more comfortable? A wider saddle can provide more surface area for comfort, but it’s important to ensure it’s also the right size for your anatomy.

How do you tell if your saddle doesn’t fit your horse? Signs of an ill-fitting saddle for a horse include uneven sweat patterns, resistance while being saddled, soreness, and behavioral changes.

What happens if the saddle is too small for the rider? A saddle that’s too small can lead to discomfort, improper balance, and difficulty maintaining a correct riding position.

How do I know if my saddle is too small? If you feel cramped, struggle to maintain balance, or experience discomfort while riding, your saddle might be too small.

What happens if a saddle is too large for a rider? A saddle that’s too large can lead to poor balance, a lack of support, and difficulty maintaining proper riding posture.

What happens if the saddle is too far back? A saddle placed too far back can interfere with a horse’s movement, cause discomfort, and result in poor rider position.

What is the most efficient saddle position? The most efficient saddle position is one that allows the rider to maintain a balanced seat and proper posture, with their legs falling naturally around the horse’s barrel.

Is my horse’s saddle too far forward? If the saddle is too far forward, it can put pressure on the horse’s shoulders, restricting movement and causing discomfort.

Should the saddle be forward or back? The saddle should be positioned so that it’s centered and allows for the horse’s natural movement without interfering with the shoulders or loins.

How should I fit in my saddle? You should fit comfortably in your saddle with a balanced seat, relaxed legs, and a straight line from your ear, shoulder, hip, and heel.

Why does my saddle lift at the back? A saddle lifting at the back might indicate an improper fit or insufficient padding under the cantle.

How tight should a saddle be? The saddle should be secure enough to prevent slipping but not so tight that it restricts the horse’s movement or causes discomfort.

How do I choose a saddle for my horse? Choose a saddle that fits your horse’s conformation, with enough clearance for the withers, and distributes weight evenly along the back.

What size saddle pad do I need for a 17-inch saddle? For a 17-inch saddle, a saddle pad around 30 inches in length should be suitable.

Why is my saddle rubbing my horse’s back? A saddle rubbing the horse’s back might indicate an ill-fitting saddle or improper padding. It’s important to address this issue promptly.

Why won’t my horse walk under the saddle? If your horse resists walking under the saddle, it might indicate discomfort or a negative association with the saddle. Consider checking the fit and addressing any underlying issues.

Why does my saddle roll when mounting? A saddle might roll when mounting if it’s not positioned properly or if the horse’s back muscles are asymmetric, causing uneven pressure.

Should a saddle lift at the back? Ideally, a saddle should sit level on the horse’s back. Lifting at the back could indicate an imbalance or poor fit.

Should the saddle sit on the spine? No, the saddle should never rest on the horse’s spine. It should be positioned with proper clearance to avoid discomfort and potential injury.

Why do I lean forward in the saddle? Leaning forward in the saddle can be due to poor posture, an unbalanced saddle, or tension in your body. Focus on maintaining a balanced seat and relaxed posture.

What angle should your saddle be at? The saddle should generally be level or slightly tilted downward at the front to prevent sliding forward.

What is the best angle to tilt a saddle? A slight downward tilt at the front of the saddle (about 1-2 degrees) can help prevent the rider from sliding forward.

Where should sit bones be on the saddle? Your sit bones should rest on the widest part of the saddle’s seat, ensuring even weight distribution and comfort.

What should saddle sweat marks look like? Saddle sweat marks should be relatively even on both sides and show a symmetrical pattern, indicating a well-fitting saddle.

How many fingers should fit under a saddle? When the rider is seated in the saddle, there should be enough clearance to fit approximately two to three fingers vertically between the pommel and the horse’s withers.

What girth stops saddle slipping back? A well-fitted girth, tightened to the appropriate snugness, helps prevent the saddle from slipping back during riding.

Why does my saddle slide when I get on? If the saddle slides when you mount, it might indicate that the saddle isn’t secure or balanced properly. Double-check the girth and saddle placement.

How should a saddle sit on a horse’s back? A saddle should sit evenly and level on the horse’s back, with proper clearance over the withers and a balanced position.