In the eyes of the casual horse rider, a saddle is just as good as any other. In reality, there are different kinds of saddles and each has its own purpose. English saddle types include dressage saddle, close contact saddle, all purpose saddle, and equitation saddle.

A dressage saddle is used by horse riders who want to learn the dressage discipline. It has a deep seat and longer stirrups designed to keep riders sitting deeper to be in closer contact with the horse. It also keeps the rider in a more upright sitting position.

A close contact saddle as its name implies, offers the tightest possible contact with a horse. It has minimal or no knee rolls with a flattened seat. This saddle is commonly used for show riding and jumping where it is very important for the rider to have the most precise control over the horse. Riders using this saddle actually spend minimal time sitting on it and are most often in the two-point jumping position or in the half sitting position used for hard galloping. Due to the nature of the saddle, it is best avoided by amateurs and should be left to skilled riders.

An all purpose saddle is useful to amateur riders who are still getting the proper feel of horse riding and jumping. It has a deep seat with large knee rolls and is generally cut forward for jumping. The larger knee rolls help beginners adjust to the proper leg position while riding.

An equitation saddle is used to keep most of the rider’s weight at the rear end of the saddle. This saddle is designed to keep the rider’s foot in line with upper body. It is commonly used for gaited horses.