What Saddle Do I Need for Endurance?

I think this is probably the question I see asked most often online, so I thought I'd share my perspective! Of all the disciplines, I’d say that endurance is probably the greatest test for both horse and rider, and the right saddle can really make a difference in comfort, performance, and the overall experience.

Now, I hate to break it to you so early in the blog, but the best saddle is really just the one that fits—both your horse and you! While off-the-shelf saddles can absolutely work, you might find that a bit of research is needed to find the perfect match for both you and your horse.

Let’s take a look at some key things to consider when choosing a saddle for endurance riding—whether you’re thinking about custom options, style preferences, or some things you might not have even thought of yet!

The Fundamentals of Saddle Fit

Saddle fit is one of those things that can totally make or break your endurance ride, but I get it—it’s not always as straightforward as it seems. Whether you're new to endurance or a seasoned rider, understanding the basics of saddle fit is essential to make sure both you and your horse stay comfortable and happy throughout your ride.

Key Considerations for Your Horse’s Fit

First off, the saddle has to fit your horse’s back—not just in terms of width, but also the shape and angle of the tree. A poor fit can lead to all sorts of discomfort, like saddle slipping, pressure points, and even long-term back issues for your horse.

Tree Shape and Size: The tree is the fundamental structure of your saddle and the most important part of distributing the rider's weight. There are lots of different shapes to choose from to fit the various back shapes since we all know that some horses have wide, flat backs, while others have high withers or a more curved shape.

Trees available at Jeremy Rudge Saddlery.

Gullet Width: The gullet is the channel that runs down the middle of the saddle. It needs to be wide enough to allow clearance for your horse’s withers, but not so wide that the saddle rocks from side to side. A narrow gullet can press on the spine, while a wider gullet can make the saddle unstable.
Panel Configuration: The panels are the parts of the saddle that sit against your horse’s back. They should evenly distribute your weight to avoid pressure points. Wool flocked panels are adjustable and can be tweaked to get the perfect fit, while foam panels are more stable and consistent. Jeremy Rudge Saddlery also offer The Free Motion system which is a revolutionary new dual layer system combining a foam layer for shape and support with a “bead” layer that is self levelling and dynamic, adapting to every step your horse takes to reduce rebound for supreme comfort.
Image provided by Jeremy Rudge Saddlery.

Key Considerations for Rider’s Fit

It’s not just about your horse—the saddle has to fit you, too! A well-fitting saddle will help you maintain good posture, prevent fatigue, and make sure you’re riding efficiently.

Seat Depth: A deeper seat can help keep you secure and balanced, while a flatter seat might give you a little more freedom to move around. It’s all about what makes you feel most comfortable for those long rides.
Stirrup Bar Position: The position of the stirrup bars will influence how your legs hang and how comfortable your hips and knees are. You want the bars to be in a position that lets your legs hang naturally without causing strain.
Cantle and Pommel Height: The cantle (the back of the saddle) and the pommel (the front) should support you without feeling too restrictive. You want to be able to shift your position and adjust your posture without feeling locked in.

Common Saddle Fit Problems

Pressure Points: If your saddle is causing pressure points, it’ll lead to discomfort for both you and your horse. Watch out for signs like soreness, swelling, or abrasions—this is often caused by a saddle that's too tight or has uneven panels.
Saddle Slippage: If the saddle starts to slide to one side, it could be too narrow or unbalanced. It’s important to make sure the saddle fits securely in place.
Too Much Movement: If your saddle moves too much on your horse’s back, it could be too wide or not making enough contact. This can lead to chafing and an unstable ride.

Custom Fit vs. Off-the-Shelf Saddles

When it comes to saddles, fit really is everything. A saddle that fits your horse well will help avoid pressure points, reduce chafing, and improve your horse’s endurance.

Personally, I’m a big fan of saddles with bespoke trees that are made specifically for each horse. Custom saddles are an investment, but they’re totally worth it for horses that compete regularly, especially at higher levels. They ensure a perfect fit, which makes all the difference when you're out there for hours at a time.

That being said, off-the-shelf saddles can definitely work too. You might just need to put in a little extra time and research to find the one that works best for both you and your horse.

Image courtesy of Jeremy Rudge Saddlery.

Rider Comfort and Security

Your comfort is just as important as your horse’s! A saddle that fits well isn’t just about supporting your horse—it should also support you. The design of the saddle can have a big impact on how secure and comfortable you feel.

Some riders prefer larger knee blocks for extra stability, especially when riding over rough terrain. But, if you’re someone who likes a bit more freedom of movement, you might find knee blocks get in the way. It all comes down to personal preference and riding style!

Raine and Chip both wear endurance saddles made by Jeremy Rudge Saddlery.

Saddle Styles Around the World

Did you know that saddle styles can vary a lot depending on where you are in the world? In Europe, many endurance riders prefer jumping saddles, which allow for a more forward seat—great for fast gallops or time spent out of the saddle.

In the Middle East, however, you’ll often see more minimalist saddles with a longer leg position, resembling a western style. This design keeps the saddle light and agile, making it ideal for long-distance rides across tough terrain.

My Favourite: The Jeremy Rudge Endurance Saddle

Having worked closely with Jeremy Rudge Saddlery, I have to say that my personal favourite is their Endurance Saddle. The tree is bespoke for each horse, ensuring the perfect fit. What really sets this saddle apart, though, is the innovative technology in the panels—they’re wool flocked and use patented bead technology to distribute weight evenly, which really helps remove pressure points and keeps you comfortable for hours.

And if you're not a fan of flaps, you can get the saddle flap-free! It might sound unusual, but I find it gives me extra security. But don’t worry, if you prefer flaps, you can always go for those too. It’s all about what feels best for you.

The best part? You can order these saddles from anywhere around the world! I’m always happy to chat about my experiences with these saddles, or you can speak with Amy directly to find the perfect fit for you and your horse.

My chosen style of flap-less endurance saddle made by Jeremy Rudge Saddlery.

Saddle Weight and FEI Regulations

At the higher competition levels, saddle weight becomes a factor to consider. At FEI 1* and 2* levels, your combined weight (horse, rider, and tack) needs to be at least 70kg. At the 3* level, it jumps to 75kg.

If you're aiming for these levels, your saddle choice might need to factor in weight. Flapped saddles can be adjusted with thin lead panels to help you hit the weight requirements. On the flip side, if you want to keep the weight down, a flapless saddle might be the way to go.

When Saddle Fit Really Matters

For many riders just starting out, the saddle you’re using might be fine for shorter rides. But when you’re tackling longer distances—think 80km or more—saddle fit really starts to matter. The right fit can make the difference between a great ride and an uncomfortable one.

The Numnah

Saddle fit doesn’t stop with the saddle itself. Choosing the right numnah (or saddle pad) is just as important for comfort and protection. Your numnah should complement your saddle, providing extra cushioning and helping to wick away moisture to keep your horse comfortable. But that’s a topic for another blog!

In Conclusion

At the end of the day, the best saddle for endurance is the one that fits you and your horse, offering comfort and support over long distances. Whether you choose a custom saddle or an off-the-shelf option, getting the right fit is key to performance and well-being.

Take the time to try out different saddles, and don’t hesitate to consult with experts who can help you make an informed choice. Happy riding!

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