The Eventing saddle buyer’s guide – in partnership with Bates Saddles

Event riders typically require at least two saddles:

• a dressage saddle to support precision, balance and a longer leg position

• a jump saddle for showjumping and cross-country, allowing freedom of movement and an effective two-point position

Many riders use one jump saddle for both jumping phases, while others prefer a more secure design for cross-country and a flatter saddle for showjumping. Whichever approach you take, a well-balanced saddle should feel almost invisible — working with you, not against you.

Modern saddle design has evolved significantly. Ergonomic trees now allow dynamic movement with the horse, while advanced panel systems adapt to individual back shapes. Brands such as British Eventing partner, Bates Saddles have long incorporated innovations like the CAIR Cushion System (launched in 2001) to enhance comfort across all phases.

• Monoflap saddles offer closer contact and often feature external movable blocks

• Traditional double flap saddles house blocks under the flap, which ideally should also be adjustable

The choice is entirely personal and should suit both rider biomechanics and horse comfort.

Correct saddle fit is fundamental to both performance and long-term soundness — for both dressage and jumping saddles.

The saddle should sit behind the shoulder blade and in front of the last rib, allowing full freedom through the shoulder. A saddle placed too far forward can restrict movement and cause discomfort.

Tree width must match your horse’s conformation, with even panel contact and a wide channel to protect the spine. Adjustable systems, such as the Bates EASY-CHANGE Fit Solution, offer flexibility as your horse’s shape changes over time.

When to reassess fit

Warning signs include:

• insecurity or imbalance despite training

• changes in your horse’s way of going

• saddle slipping

• uneven muscle development

• noticeable differences between saddles

Regular saddle checks — at least every six months — are essential, particularly as fitness, workload and condition change.

Eventing demands different positions across phases, making rider fit just as important.

Proper alignment — ear, shoulder, hip, heel — should feel effortless. If it doesn’t, the saddle may be the issue rather than your riding.

• A saddle too low behind creates an armchair effect, pushing the leg forward

• A saddle too high behind tips the rider forward, reducing security — particularly problematic cross-country

Modern saddles offer features such as movable blocks, adjustable stirrup bars and overgirth options, allowing riders to fine-tune balance and support. Bates Saddles, for example, offers Adjustable Ergonomic Stirrup Bars, enabling precise customisation across both dressage and jump saddles.

Investing in two quality saddles is significant, but modern adjustability allows saddles to evolve alongside horse and rider. Adjustable tree width systems can be altered quickly, ensuring ongoing comfort as horses develop muscle or change shape.

Work with a qualified saddle fitter for fitting and regular reassessment. Between fittings, basic checks include:

• correct saddle placement

• level balance when viewed from a distance

• adequate spine clearance

• even panel contact

• Bates Apex Jump Saddle (RRP £3,899 – coming April 2026)

The biggest evolution in jump saddles, featuring patented, game-changing technology. Limited pre-launch releases worldwide.

• Bates Victrix Jump Saddle (RRP £3,199)

Lightweight and ultra-close, offering freedom and comfort with movable Flexiblocs and a SynergyPanel.

• Bates Advanta Jump Saddle (RRP £2,999)

Engineered for effortless balance, featuring FlexiContourbloc technology and a forward-cut monoflap.

• Bates Artiste Dressage Saddle (RRP £3,799)

A sensitive, balanced saddle designed to amplify rider performance.

• Bates Isabell Icon Dressage Saddle (RRP £3,799)

Designed to free your horse’s movement while conveying aids with clarity.

For more information on saddle fit, care and technology, follow @batessaddles and explore educational content at batessaddles.com.

Stay tuned to British Eventing for ongoing advice from our partners and industry experts.