How to Measure an English Saddle
Posted by Mary's Tack & Feed on 28th Oct 2020
Choosing the right English saddle is essential for proper balance, correct riding position, and long-term comfort for both horse and rider. An English saddle that fits correctly supports good riding habits, encourages effective communication with your horse, and helps prevent discomfort or injury over time.
Because buying an English saddle is a significant investment, it’s important to understand how to measure an English saddle correctly—and how to evaluate whether the saddle you’re currently riding in is the right fit. At Mary’s Tack & Feed, our experienced saddle specialists and seasoned riders are here to help you make informed, confident decisions every step of the way.
Let’s walk through how to measure an English saddle seat, evaluate flap fit, and determine the right configuration for your riding style and anatomy.
How to Measure the Seat of an English Saddle:
When measuring an English saddle, accuracy matters. Always make sure the saddle is placed on a level surface or balanced correctly on your horse before measuring.
Steps to Measure an English Saddle Seat:
- Use a flexible measuring tape.
- Measure from the center of the pommel button (front of the saddle).
- Measure straight back to the center of the cantle (rear of the saddle).
- This measurement, in inches, is the saddle’s seat size.
Typical English Saddle Seat Sizes:
- 16" – Common for teenagers or smaller riders
- 17" – Most common adult English saddle size
- 18" – Often preferred by taller riders or those needing more pelvic support
Knowing your seat measurement is the first step—but understanding how that seat fits your body is just as important.
Is Your English Saddle Seat the Right Size?
With the saddle properly balanced on your horse and your horse standing square on level ground, place your feet in the stirrups and sit naturally in the center of the saddle.
Seat Fit Check:
- You should be able to fit one hand’s width between your seat and the back of the cantle.
- You should also be able to fit one hand’s width between your body and the pommel in front.
- If you cannot fit a hand’s width, the saddle may be too small.
- If there is more than a hand’s width in front or behind you, the saddle may be too large.
The goal is to sit comfortably in the balance point of the saddle, where your weight is evenly distributed and your position feels natural and secure.
If your current saddle doesn’t pass this test, our saddle experts at Mary’s Tack & Feed can help you identify a better-fitting seat size.
What Is a Forward Flap on an English Saddle?
Once seat size is determined, it’s time to look at flap configuration, which plays a critical role in rider balance and leg position.
A properly fitted saddle flap should:
- Follow the natural angle of your leg
- Support your knee without restricting movement
- Allow your leg to stay stable in your preferred stirrup length
Knee Placement Check:
The point of your knee should sit directly behind the most forward point of the flap. Having up to one inch of flap in front of your knee is ideal and helps maintain security and balance.
If your knee consistently comes over the front of the flap, you may need a forward flap.
How to Determine the Correct Flap Length
Flap length should correspond to your leg length and riding discipline.
Ideal Flap Length:
- The flap should extend to about one-third of the way down your calf
- It should not interfere with the top of your tall boots or half chaps
Flap Length Evaluation:
- If the flap ends in the top quarter of your leg, you may need a long flap
- If the flap extends more than halfway down your leg, a short flap may be more appropriate
Riders with long legs who ride in smaller seat sizes often benefit from long or long-forward flap options, depending on brand and saddle design.
Because English saddle flap measurements vary by manufacturer, seat size, and discipline, expert guidance can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right English Saddle Fit
Measuring an English saddle correctly helps you quickly determine which saddles to rule out—and which ones are worth trying. The right combination of seat size, flap angle, and flap length will support proper position, enhance performance, and improve overall comfort.
At Mary’s Tack & Feed, we specialize in English saddle fitting expertise and offer personalized guidance, trusted brands, and saddle trial options so you can ride with confidence.
If you need assistance determining your ideal English saddle fit, give us a call at 800-551-6279. Our experienced team is always happy to help you find the perfect saddle for you and your horse.