Buying an English saddle online can feel overwhelming — and with good reason.
It’s a major investment in both your riding and your horse’s comfort.
A poorly fitted saddle can cause soreness, behavioral issues, uneven muscle development, and long-term damage to your horse’s back — not to mention frustration and wasted money for you. That “great deal” you found online? It won’t feel like a bargain if your horse starts pinning their ears or refusing to move forward.
But with the right knowledge, you can make a smart, confident purchase that fits your discipline, your horse, and your goals.
This guide will help you understand the main types of English saddles, what to look for in fit and construction, and how to buy online without stress (or returns).
🎯 Understanding the Types of English Saddles
Different disciplines require different tools. Here’s a quick breakdown of the three most common English saddle types:
- Dressage Saddles: Deep seat, long straight flaps, and a close-contact feel to support a vertical upper body position. Ideal for riders focused on precision, balance, and connection.
- Jumping / Close Contact Saddles: Flatter seat with more forward-cut flaps to support a shorter stirrup length and rider mobility. Great for show jumping, hunter/jumper, and stadium work.
- All-Purpose Saddles: A blend of both, with a moderately deep seat and flaps that allow for flexibility across flatwork, low jumps, and trail rides. Perfect for new or recreational riders.
🛍️ Not sure which is right for you? Browse our English saddle collection to compare styles side-by-side.
📏 Fit First: What You Need to Know
Fit is everything. A poorly fitting saddle can cause pain, performance issues, and even long-term damage. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Seat Size: For the rider. Adult sizes typically ranges from 16.5" to 18". Too small and you’ll feel cramped; too large and you’ll slide around.
- Tree Width / Gullet: For the horse. Determines how the saddle sits on the back and shoulders. Common widths are narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide.
- Panel Construction: Wool (adjustable but may compress), foam (stable but less adjustable), or latex (shock-absorbing and shape-retaining).
- Balance & Support: A well-balanced saddle puts your weight over the horse's center of gravity and supports proper rider position.
Some saddles, like the Acavallo line, include adjustable gullet systems, which give you flexibility as your horse’s shape changes or if you ride multiple horses.
🧠 Pro tip: If you’re unsure, work with a fitter or use wither tracing templates when shopping online.
🛒 Top Picks from HorseWorldEU
We’ve selected three smart options from our inventory that offer the perfect balance of function, fit, and value:
1. Acavallo Bernini All-Purpose Saddle
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Versatile and rider-friendly, the Bernini is built for riders who do a bit of everything.
It features the revolutionary MAG system — an adjustable gullet that adapts to your horse’s withers for optimal fit.
Wool panels provide soft, responsive cushioning. A fantastic option for casual riding, schooling, or growing horses.
2. Stübben Laurus Jumping Saddle (Children's)
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Designed specifically for young riders or small framed adults, the Laurus offers balanced support and a comfortable, close-contact feel that helps build confidence in the jump ring.
With four tree-width options, it’s built to fit a variety of horses — ideal for growing riders who may ride different mounts over time.
And with Stübben’s reputation for quality, it’s one of the most approachable entry points into a performance jumping saddle — at a price that’s hard to beat.
3. Acavallo Mantegna Dressage Saddle
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A dressage saddle built for deep connection and long-term comfort.
The Mantegna features a tilted cantle for freedom of movement, a narrow twist for correct positioning, and a mono flap design for closer contact.
Long knee blocks enhance leg security, while the MAG adjustable gullet and latex-padded panels offer a custom fit that lasts.
Wrapped in premium double full-grain calfskin with subtle styling details, this is a standout for serious dressage riders.
🚩 Before You Click “Buy Now”: A Quick Checklist
- ✅ Seat size fits your body
- ✅ Tree width or adjustable gullet matches your horse
- ✅ Saddle type suits your riding discipline
- ✅ Clear photos, specs, and sizing info provided
- ✅ Return or exchange policy reviewed
- ✅ Shipping fees, customs, and delivery time accounted for
👋 Final Thought: The Right Saddle Is a Game Changer
The right saddle transforms your ride. It supports your position, respects your horse’s anatomy, and makes every session more enjoyable.
Whether you’re preparing for the show ring or just want to feel more in sync with your horse, buying a saddle online doesn’t have to be risky — not when you know what to look for.
👉 Browse our selection of English saddles and ride with confidence, style, and comfort.