Children's horse saddles

Their main purpose is to provide children with stability, confidence and a correct position on the horse, while protecting the horse's back from uneven pressure.

What are children's saddles for?

Safety: The shallower seat depth and firm side supports prevent the child from slipping or falling.

Comfort: The soft padding and ergonomic shape allow children to sit comfortably.

Correct position: They keep children in an upright and stable position, which makes it easier to control the horse and make it easier to practice basic riding techniques.

Horse protection: The lower weight and special design reduce pressure on the horse's back.

How to use children's saddles

Choosing the right size: The saddle must fit snugly on the horse's back and allow the child to be in a comfortable position.

Saddle pad: Always use a saddle pad that absorbs sweat and reduces friction.

Girth: The saddle is secured with a girth or breastplate, which provides stability.

Safety features: Some saddles have handles or leg straps for better security of the child.

Pre-ride check: Check that the saddle does not strangle the horse's withers or back and that the child is firmly but comfortably seated.

Types of children's saddles

1. Mini dressage saddles

A smaller version of the classic dressage saddle with knee support and a deep seat.
Advantages:5

Maintains the correct position of the rider

Stability in basic dressage

Close contact with the horse
Disadvantages:

Less suitable for cross-country riding and jumping

2. Mini jumping saddles

A small version of the jumping saddle with a slightly deep seat and knee support.
Advantages:

Flexibility of movement over obstacles

Stability over small jumps

Disadvantages:

Less suitable for dressage

Requires adult supervision

3. Frameless children's saddles

Lightweight, frameless saddles that adapt to the shape of the horse's back and the smaller child.
Advantages:

Light, flexible and comfortable

Minimizes pressure on the horse's back
Disadvantages:

Less traditional look

May have a shorter lifespan with intensive use

4. Off-road or trekking children's saddles

Saddles designed for short rides and recreational riding, often with support for the child's hands.
Advantages:

Stability on long rides

Adapted for child safety

Disadvantages:

Limited applicability for sports disciplines

5. Saddles with safety features

Salles supplemented with handles, leg straps or seat belts.
Advantages:

Increased child safety and security9

Suitable for beginners

Disadvantages:

May limit leg movement

Requires adult supervision while riding

Advantages of children's saddles

Safe for young children

Stability and correct position

Comfort for both child and horse

Minimizes pressure on the horse

Supports learning basic riding techniques

Disadvantages

Limited use for adults or demanding disciplines

Some models require frequent checking of fastening

Higher price of quality ergonomic models

Not all saddles are suitable for all horse breeds

How to choose the right children's saddle

Saddle size: Must match the size of both the child and the horse.

Rider level: Beginners need saddles with handles or knee support.

Material: Synthetics - light and easy to maintain; leather - traditional, durable, but more demanding.

Intended use: Recreational riding, jumping, terrain or teaching.

Saddle pad and fastening: Always a high-quality saddle pad and a properly fastened belly pad.

Saddle testing: The saddle must be stable, comfortable and safe before riding.

Tips for use

Always use a suitable saddle pad

Check the fastening of the belly pad and breast pad

When riding in open terrain or when jumping, use an adult companion

Regularly check the condition of the saddle and safety features

For longer rides, choose saddles with more comfort and support

Most common mistakes

Incorrect saddle size for the child or horse

Ignoring the reactions of the child or horse

Insufficient fastening of the belly pad or safety features

Using the saddle for inappropriate disciplines

Children's saddles are specially designed for safe, comfortable and stable riding by small children. The right saddle choice depends on the child's size, horse breed, rider's level, purpose of riding, and saddle material. A quality saddle pad, a secure belly band, and regular saddle inspection are also important to ensure a safe and comfortable ride for both child and horse.