All-Purpose Saddle

When you simply want to ride your horse without worrying about the ‘correct’ type of saddle, you should choose an all-purpose saddle. This type of saddle works with other types of riding as well.

The all-purpose saddle combines features of the dressage saddle and the jumping saddle. The seat is a depth between the dressage and jumping saddles. The flaps are situated so they are not as forward angled as the jumping saddle and not as long and straight as the dressage saddle.

The all-purpose saddle, which is an English type of saddle, is best for those that prefer riding for general and pleasurable purposes; they are safe, comfortable and versatile.

The all-purpose saddle is appropriate for low-level competitive riding as well because it allows for various types of riding without the expense of several saddles. When you decide to compete at higher levels, the expense of different types of saddles is recommended for the best performance. You can use the all-purpose saddle for many events occasionally but not continuously for a specific event.

Lane Fox Saddles

The Lane Fox saddle is a specialized English type saddle which has longer and wider flaps than a dressage saddle. The Lane Fox saddle has a flat seat and no knee rolls or sweat flaps; very different than a dressage saddle.

The Lane Fox saddle is used to show off the horse’s shoulder action or during Saddleseat events; gaited horses and Saddlebreds are examples. These types of saddles are not recommended for casual riding but more for the competitor. Lane Fox saddles are not as comfortable or secure as all-purpose or dressage saddles.