The simple answer to the question how much does a saddle weigh? is as follows.
English saddles can weigh anywhere between 5 – 12 kgs
Western saddles being heavier can weigh between 10 – 25 kgs
Horse Racing saddles normally weigh between 0.5kg – 2.5kg
The weight of a saddle will not affect your performance as a horse rider.
A correctly fitting saddle suitable for the style of riding is much more important.
The weight of a saddle is not a significant factor having relatively little impact on a horse’s back. For example, if a general purpose saddle weighs about 5 – 6 kilos (11 – 15 pounds) when compared to a rider weighing 55 kilos (120 pounds) the saddle makes up such a small percentage (less than 10% of the overall weight on the horse’s back) and therefore any reduction in the weight of the saddle would make a negligible difference to the horse’s performance.
In fact, the saddle is there to help distribute the weight of the rider across the horse’s back and it is not only the shape and cut of the saddle which is an important factor in determining its overall effectiveness. It is equally important to ensure your saddle is suited to the type of riding, e.g. A dressage saddle for dressage, an all-purpose saddle for leisure riding, etc. (You wouldn’t want to be show jumping in a western saddle!).
However, above all else, the most crucial factor to ensure your saddle fits correctly and is comfortable for both horse and rider is to use a qualified saddle fitter.
The only equestrian sport where the weight of a saddle pad is important is horse racing. This is because any excess weight can reduce the speed and stamina of a horse, and the reason why racing saddles are so light in comparison weighing between 0.5kg and 2.5kg.
Both English Saddles and Western saddles have been fashioned to help the rider accomplish precise challenges. Whilst some of the materials may have changed due to modern advancements, the basic designs remain the same.
English saddles are smaller and lighter in design, weighing between 5 – 12kgs (11 – 26lbs), to allow the rider more mobility and closer contact with the horse.
Western saddles are larger and heavier, weighing between 10 – 25kgs (20 – 50 lbs), distributing their weight over a larger area of the horse’s, back providing comfort and support to the horse and rider during long periods in the saddle.
English saddles have been designed to sit over a smaller area and be in closer contact with the horse’s back, allowing not only the horse freedom of movement but the rider to feel the movement through the saddle, whilst retaining a balanced seating position to suit the style or discipline they are riding in.
Because English saddles sit over a smaller area of the horse’s back, the underside is padded with flock (normally wool flock) to aid comfort. Western saddles have no padding but spread the load over a greater area (Western saddle pads are generally thicker for this reason).
Whilst Western and English Saddles both have a pommel and cantle, (the front and back parts of the saddle), in Western saddles, this is normally more pronounced. A western saddle has more of a fitted seat area.
As pioneers in the horse tack industry since 2007, Pink Equine is renowned for its innovative and stylish collections. While our vibrant designs allow riders to coordinate with their horses and make a fashion statement, we prioritize functionality and comfort above all else.
From Horse Bridles and Browbands to Girths and Headcollars, all our leather work is crafted from premium Italian Leather with meticulous attention to detail and protected by our quality guarantee and custom made to your requirements. We only sell direct to customers, so there are no middlemen and this helps keep costs down.
Additionally, our partnership with E A Mattes brings you the finest saddle pads and sheepskin girths, reflecting our commitment to excellence and personalized service. Custom saddle pads and girths are made with a focus on quality materials and bespoke manufacturing, and our horse tack seamlessly combines with their style and substance.
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