How can I tell if my English saddle fits me?
An English saddle seat size is measured from the brad near the pommel (front) of the saddle to the cantle (back) of the saddle. Many adults require a seat that is size 16.5 inches to 18 inches.
When sitting in the saddle, you should have a distance of 4 fingers between the front of the pommel and your body.
You should also be able to fit 3-4 fingers in the space between the cantle and your body.
When you ride, your ear, shoulder, hips, and heels should all align on an invisible vertical line. If your heels are too far forward in front of this line first try adjusting your position. While riding, if you feel your feet start to drift forward again, this may indicate that your saddle is too small for you.
If you have a long thigh, you may need a larger seat than other people. A more forward flap on your saddle could also help to position you correctly.
Deeper seats, which can be found on dressage saddles and all purpose saddles may feel smaller than they actually are. Flatter seats, which can be found on close contact or jumping saddles are flatter and therefore a rider may be able to get by with a smaller seat size.
Remember that you could be 5' tall and 90 pounds when wet and still need a size 18" seat! It all depends on the proportion of the rider and the build of the saddle.
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