What saddles are best for thoroughbreds?
Kent and Masters saddles for Thoroughbred horses. They have full front gussets and deeper rear gussets to accommodate the high wither horse. A benefit of Kent and Masters is that they are adjustable gullet. Therefore, the width can be adjusted easily.
Are close contact saddles better?
That means there is less flocking in the panel between the horse and rider’s seat bones, allowing the rider’s leg to gain more contact. Close contact saddles can also give more stability especially on rounder horses like native ponies, cobs and draft horses.
What is a close contact saddle for?
A close contact saddle is designed with a forward cut flap to help the rider get out of the tack and into jump position. Although flat work is possible in a close contact saddle, they are primarily used for stadium jumping or cross-country.
What is the average gullet size for a thoroughbred?
Semi-Quarter horse bars usually have a 6 1/4″ gullet, and Quarter Horse Bars usually have a 6 1/2″ to 6 3/4″ gullet. Designed to fit the average horse, one of these two widths will fit approximately 80% of horses comfortably. Full-Quarter horse bars usually have a 7″ gullet.
Is a close contact saddle the same as a jumping saddle?
The close contact English saddles feature a forward flap that accommodates a higher knee placement from a shorter stirrup length. Jumping requires the rider to have a higher and more forward center of gravity.
Is a close contact saddle a jumping saddle?
Close Contact Saddles A Close Contact saddle is the standard in hunt seat saddles. Considered a Hunter Jumper saddle or more broadly, an English jumping saddle, the Close Contact Saddle is regularly seen in the hunter show ring in Hunter Under Saddle, Hunt Seat Equitation and Hunter Over Fences classes.