STEP 1

Figure out what kind of riding you will do, because there are saddles available to meet virtually every need. For instance, will you be riding for recreational purposes only, or do you intend to enter competition; and if so, what type? If you intend to ride for recreational purposes, you might consider buying a trail saddle, because it is fairly light and is designed for comfort. If you plan to enter competitions, you'll need to decide what that'll be because there are saddles designed for each use.

STEP 2

Make sure the saddle you buy fits you well. A well-fitting saddle will let you maintain a correct position while riding which will prevent you from being in pain if you are on the horse for an extended length of time. Depending on your weight and configuration, you need to make sure that the saddle you buy has the right seat size and stirrup position. In addition, ask for a professional opinion about such things as fork and cantle height, and the angle, all important comfort factors.

STEP 3

Make sure the saddle you buy also fits your horse well. This is an important consideration, because a saddle that does not fit the horse will ultimately cause health and training problems. The saddle needs to clear the horse's withers, give the horse room through the shoulders, and be well balanced. Put a blanket and the saddle on the horse and tighten the cinch. If the cinch is too short, it can be easily replaced. Pay close attention to how the saddle matches with the horse's back. If you can't get your fingers between it and the horse's back, the saddle is too narrow for the horse. Conversely, if you can get more than three fingers' clearance, the saddle is too wide.

STEP 4

Know how much you can afford to spend on a saddle before you shop. Saddles can cost a few hundred dollars for the frugal, and thousands of dollars for people who want the best. Generally, the more you pay for a saddle, the better the quality you can expect but you should be able to find one that will be within your budget while providing you with a lifetime of enjoyment. If you have little budget, consider buying a used saddle because they rarely wear out. You can also look for saddles online because bargains abound for those who are willing to do their homework. Never commit to a saddle before taking it on a lengthy ride. There is no substitute for trying it out when it comes to finding a saddle that fits well.