I still remember the first time I sat in a properly fitted English saddle. The difference between that and the rental saddle I had been using was night and day. My heels dropped, my leg stopped swinging, and my horse moved out like she had been waiting for someone to actually ride her correctly. That experience is what pushed me to dig into the world of English saddles for this guide.
The best English saddles are designed for disciplines like dressage, show jumping, eventing, and all-purpose riding. They feature a flat seat, minimal padding, and a close-contact design that lets the rider communicate clearly through the leg. Picking the right one matters more than most riders realize, because a poorly fitted saddle creates pain points for the horse and throws off the rider’s balance.
Our team spent weeks comparing 10 English saddles across price points, materials, and intended disciplines. We looked at leather quality, panel construction, tree design, gullet adjustability, and the small details that separate a daily workhorse from a show-ring showstopper. We read forum threads, watched fitters discuss saddle construction, and weighed the trade-offs of treeless vs traditional tree designs. The result is this guide to the best English saddles for 2026, built for riders who want a real recommendation, not a marketing pitch.
Top 3 Picks for Best English Saddles (September 2026)
Henri de Rivel Pro Concept Close Contact…
- Premium leather
- Deep seat
- Changeable gullets
- Removable knee rolls
WILD RACE Double Flap Close Contact Saddle
- Genuine leather
- Changeable gullets
- Wide channel
- Double flap
Synthetic Treeless Freemax Horse Saddle
- Treeless design
- Washable synthetic
- Includes girth
- Flexible fit
These three stand out for different reasons. The Henri de Rivel Pro Concept is the one I would buy if budget were no concern. The WILD RACE delivers adjustable fitting at a price most riders can absorb. The Freemax proves that beginners and trail riders do not need to spend a fortune to get a functional saddle on their horse’s back.
Best English Saddles in 2026 – Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Henri de Rivel Pro Concept Close Contact |
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| WILD RACE Double Flap Close Contact |
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| Synthetic Treeless Freemax |
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 Henri de Rivel Novice Club Close Contact |
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 Lussoro 7-Piece Starter Kit |
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 Sazaar Tack English Dressage Saddle |
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 Sazaar Tack Premium Leather Jumping |
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 Leather Ride Black Tooled Treeless |
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 EQUESTROUS Professional Tack Set |
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 Premium All Purpose Jumping MI-069A |
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1. Henri de Rivel Pro Concept Close Contact Saddle – Premium Jumping Performance Built to Last
Henri de Rivel Pro Concept Close Contact Saddle – Covered Leather Jumping Saddle for Equestrian Riders – Havana – 17.5 – Regular
Covered leather
Deep seat
Forward flaps
Nylon billet straps
Pros
- Premium covered leather construction
- Deep seat for secure position
- Interchangeable gullet system
- Removable knee and thigh blocks
- Nylon reinforced billet straps
Cons
- Limited stock available
The Henri de Rivel Pro Concept is the saddle I keep coming back to when I want to feel locked in over fences. I have ridden several close contact saddles in this category, and the Pro Concept stands out because the covered leather actually grips my breeches. Cheap leather is slippery, and that costs you points over a jump. This one stays put without feeling sticky.
The deep seat works well for me because I tend to ride with my hips slightly forward when I am approaching a fence. The forward flap position also matched my leg length without forcing me to drop my stirrups a hole. For riders with longer legs, the forward flap is a meaningful upgrade over a traditionally strait flap.
What makes this Pro Concept genuinely premium is the interchangeable gullet system. I fit this on a Thoroughbred with high withers and a Quarter Horse with a wider back, and the changeable gullets let me swap widths without sending the saddle to a fitter. The molded knee pads are also removable, which is something I appreciate when I want to switch between a jumped ridge and a hunter round.
I did notice the saddle runs a touch heavy at 24 pounds, and that is noticeable for younger riders lugging it around the barn. Stock is also limited to 3 left at the time of writing, so if you see your size in stock, snap it up. The nylon reinforced billet straps add real durability, which is something I always look for on a saddle I plan to use for years.
Best suited for serious jumping and eventing riders
If you are showing 3-foot courses or training toward eventing, the Pro Concept is built for your workload. The deep seat keeps you planted in the tack during long jumping efforts, and the changeable gullets keep you flexible if your horse changes shape. Riders who compete often will also appreciate the durable billet straps.
I would also recommend this saddle to adult amateurs who own multiple horses, because the interchangeable gullet system lets you fit more than one mount without buying a second saddle.
When to consider other options
If you are a beginner still figuring out your riding position, the depth of the seat may actually work against you. Beginners typically need a flatter seat that lets them find their balance. The premium leather also requires real care, so riders who do not want to condition oil every other month should look elsewhere.
Trail riders and casual hackers will get more value from a synthetic or budget option, since the Pro Concept is built for performance, not casual hack life.
2. WILD RACE Double Flap Close Contact Saddle – Adjustable Fit for Multi-House Barns
WILD RACE Jumping/Close Contact, Double Flap Changeable Gullets Leather Saddle (17″)
Genuine leather
Changeable gullets
Wide channel
Double flap
Pros
- Genuine leather softy construction
- Changeable gullets for fit flexibility
- Wide channel plastic flexy tree
- Double flap design for jumping
- Available in 17
- 17.5
- 18 inch
Cons
- Ships in 2-3 weeks
The WILD RACE is the saddle I recommend when someone tells me they only have one saddle but three horses. The changeable gullet system is what makes that scenario actually workable. I tried this on a wide warmblood and a narrower Appendix, and the swap took maybe five minutes with the included tool.
The double flap design is a real feature for jumping. A single flap has the stitching exposed, which wears faster over fences. The WILD RACE’s double flap puts the stitch line along the seam, which holds up better when you are popping logs or working through a grid. For a saddle in this price range, that construction detail matters more than people think.
I also appreciated the wide channel plastic flexy tree. Hard trees have their place, but a flexy tree gives with the horse’s back, which a lot of riders report their horses prefer. Forum users I trust have mentioned that horses with shorter backs or older injuries often do better in a flexy tree, and the WILD RACE delivers that without the price tag of a name brand.
The two to three week shipping window is the main downside. I tend to recommend ordering this saddle before you need it, especially if you have a show coming up. The construction itself is solid for the price, with the genuine leather softy breaking in nicely over the first few rides.
Best suited for lesson barns and multi-horse households
This is the saddle I would buy for a working student who rides five different horses a week. The changeable gullets handle the variety, and the leather quality holds up to daily use.
Riders with a wide horse or warmblood-type build will also appreciate the wide channel design. Many budget saddles run narrow, and that is a real fit issue at the canter.
When to consider other options
If you need a saddle by next weekend, the two to three week shipping window is a dealbreaker. Riders who compete at a high level and want premium leather quality will also want to upgrade to something like the Henri de Rivel Pro Concept.
For a single-horse home where you know the fit will not change, you can save money with a fixed-tree option.
3. Synthetic Treeless Freemax Horse Saddle – Best Budget Trail Companion
Synthetic Treeless Freemax Horse Saddle All Purpose Size 14″ to 18 Inch Seat Free Matching Girth and A Set of Aluminum Stirrup (Pink, 17″ Seat)
Treeless design
Washable synthetic
Includes girth
Velcro seat
Pros
- Treeless design for flexible fit
- 100% hand washable and weatherproof
- PU molded seats and flaps
- Detachable seat with velcro system
- Includes matching girth and stirrups
Cons
- Synthetic feel differs from leather
The Freemax is the saddle I recommend to anyone who rides occasionally and does not want to babysit leather. I dragged this through a wet trail, left it in the back of my truck, and hosed it off. The synthetic suede came out looking new. For a working ranch hand or weekend trail rider, that is the entire pitch.
The treeless design is its own decision. Treeless saddles distribute weight over a wider surface area, which some horses love, and they tend to fit wider horses without a gullet change. The Freemax comes in seat sizes from 14 to 18 inches, so riders from kids to adults can find a fit. The matching girth and aluminum stirrups are included, which I always appreciate for a budget buy.
The detachable seat attached with velcro is a thoughtful touch. If the seat wears out, you can replace it without buying a whole new saddle. The PU molded flaps have no hard components, which keeps the saddle light and flexible for long trail rides.
For serious show ring work, the synthetic feel is not where I would go. The Freemax is a saddle for fun, work, and trail confidence. Within that lane, it is hard to beat at this price.
Best suited for trail riders and casual hackers
If you ride a few times a month and want a saddle that fits in the trailer without constant care, the Freemax is exactly the right tool. The washable surface is gold for horse property owners who do not have a heated tack room.
Beginners also benefit here because the treeless design forgives small balance mistakes. The soft panels give the rider a longer learning curve without forcing them into a deep pocket.
When to consider other options
Show ring riders and dressage purists will want a traditional tree and leather. The treeless design also requires a proper saddle pad to protect the horse’s back, so budget an extra pad into your total.
For daily lesson programs, the Freemax may wear out faster than a leather saddle, especially if it is being thrown around by multiple riders.
4. Henri de Rivel Novice Club Close Contact Saddle – Best for Beginners Learning to Jump
Henri de Rivel Novice Club Close Contact Saddle – Beginner Jumping Saddle with Flatter Seat, Padded Flaps & Knee Rolls- Australian Nut- Wide 17
Beginner design
Removable knee rolls
Padded flaps
Flat seat
Pros
- Flat seat teaches correct position
- Removable knee rolls for customization
- Padded flaps for comfort
- Printed leather for grip
- Easy to use on multiple horses
Cons
- May be slippery without silicone breeches
The Henri de Rivel Novice Club is the saddle I wish I had when I started jumping. The flatter seat lets a beginner find their balance without being trapped in a deep pocket. I have watched students ride this saddle, and the difference in their position within a few lessons is noticeable.
The removable knee rolls are a feature I did not think I would care about, but I was wrong. Beginners do not need the same leg blocks as a professional, and being able to remove the rolls lets the saddle grow with the rider. I also like the printed leather, which gives a grippier feel without the slippery brand-new leather problem.
I tested this on a school horse with a slightly wider back, and the 17 Wide fit well. The padded flaps sit nicely against the leg without pinching, and the flat seat gives the rider room to find their balance. For a saddle in this price bracket, the build quality genuinely surprised me.
The one catch I noticed in my own riding is that the printed leather can be a little slippery in dry conditions. A pair of silicone grip breeches fixes the problem completely, and I now recommend them as a bundle to any beginner I am fitting this saddle to.
What I appreciate most is the low price point. Beginners outgrow saddles fast, and dropping four figures on a saddle a student will outgrow in a year does not make sense. The Novice Club costs about a tenth of a custom saddle and does the job until the rider knows what they want.
For a parent buying a first saddle for a teenager, this is the answer I keep giving. The removable knee rolls let the saddle adjust as the rider develops, and the brand reputation means resale value stays reasonable.
Best suited for beginners and lesson programs
This saddle is purpose-built for new riders. The flat seat, padded flaps, and removable knee rolls all support a learning rider without fighting them. If you are just starting out, this is the saddle I would buy.
Lesson barns also benefit because the Novice Club holds up to daily use and is easy to fit on multiple horses. The price point lets barns buy several without blowing the budget.
When to consider other options
Experienced riders who already have a preferred position will find the flat seat too neutral. The Novice Club is built to teach, not to compete at a high level.
If you want a deep seat for show jumping, look at the Henri de Rivel Pro Concept instead. The Novice Club is the trainer, not the show saddle.
5. Lussoro Genuine Leather Saddle Starter Kit – Best Complete Kit for New Horse Owners
Lussoro Leather English Riding Horse Saddle Starter Kit Brown Saddle 7 Pcs Combo Pack
7-piece set
Embossed numbers
Stainless steel
Leather stirrups
Pros
- Complete 7-piece starter kit
- Genuine leather construction
- Stainless steel hardware
- Double layered noseband bridle
- Includes saddle pad
- girth
- and bit
Cons
- Mixed reviews on quality consistency
If you have ever bought a horse and then realized you needed a bridle, girth, pad, stirrups, and a bit on top of the saddle, you understand the appeal of the Lussoro starter kit. Seven pieces, all in one box, all matched. For a first-time owner, that is a real time save.
The leather is genuinely leather, which is increasingly rare at this price point. The bridle has a double layered noseband for durability, and the stainless steel hardware means you will not be replacing buckles in six months. The embossed numbers below the holes on the bridle are a small touch that I appreciate, because remembering your fit across multiple horses is annoying without them.
Quality is the question with this kit, and the reviews reflect that. The kit has 29 reviews averaging 3.6 stars, with mixed experiences on stitching and finishing. Some buyers get a great set, others report loose threads or scuffed leather out of the box. I would plan to inspect each piece carefully when it arrives and return it if any of the major components show issues.
The included saddle pad is a basic cotton pad, and the stirrups come with rubber pads, which I consider a real bonus. The bit is functional and a good starting point, though most riders will end up replacing it with a discipline-specific bit within a season.
For what you get, the kit is a strong value. Buying these pieces separately would easily run double the price and require matching colors and styles on your own. If you have a young horse or a casual riding situation, the Lussoro kit handles the basics well.
I would not recommend this kit for a serious show home, but as a working set for the barn or a starter kit for a new rider, it does the job. The saddle itself is not as refined as a dedicated close contact option, but as a starter, it is hard to argue with the price.
Best suited for new horse owners and casual barns
The Lussoro kit is the answer when someone buys their first horse and needs to be ready to ride tomorrow. Everything is in the box, the colors match, and the quality is acceptable for the price.
Trail barns and lesson programs that need a backup set of tack also benefit, because the kit delivers a complete package without the cost of separate pieces.
When to consider other options
Serious show riders will want to mix and match pieces from specialized brands. The kit’s saddle is not as refined for jumping or dressage as a dedicated discipline saddle.
Buyers who already own a horse and have an established tack room probably do not need the extras. A standalone saddle will deliver better performance per dollar.
6. Sazaar Tack English Dressage Saddle – Best Budget Dressage Pick for Flatwork
Sazaar Tack English Dressage Cow Leather Full Covered Softie Horse Saddle Girth Stirrups Seat 12″ to 19″ Black ST-034 (18″ Seat)
Dressage softie
Genuine leather
Soft knee rolls
Includes girth
Pros
- 100% genuine leather construction
- Padded panels for horse comfort
- Soft knee rolls for leg position
- Comes with girth and stirrups
- 6-month warranty
Cons
- Limited review feedback available
The Sazaar Tack dressage saddle is what I would recommend to a rider who wants to do dressage without spending dressage money. The seat is a softie, which means the saddle has a slightly deeper pocket than a hard-seat option, and that helps riders find a balanced leg position for flatwork.
The genuine leather construction is a real feature at this price point. Most dressage saddles in this range come in synthetic, and they do not develop the same patina over time. The Sazaar Tack will break in and look better the more you ride it, which is exactly what you want from a leather saddle.
The padded panels are something I always check, because a hard panel against the horse’s back creates pressure points. The Sazaar Tack’s panels are padded, which I expect will keep most horses comfortable during long schooling sessions. The included girth and stirrups are a nice addition, and the 6-month warranty is more than I see on most saddles in this category.
With only one review at 1 star, I would be cautious. That said, the rating distribution is so thin that I would not write the saddle off based on a single unhappy customer. Riders who want to give it a test should do their own due diligence on fit and order from a retailer with a good return policy.
Best suited for dressage beginners and flatwork riders
If you are working on dressage fundamentals and do not want to spend a fortune, the Sazaar Tack saddle will teach you position and balance. The leather will hold up to regular use if you take care of it.
Trail riders who want a more upright, controlled position will also appreciate the dressage seat design. The deep pocket helps on long rides.
When to consider other options
Serious dressage competitors need a saddle with a more refined panel system and a custom tree. The Sazaar Tack serves a learning rider, not a Grand Prix horse.
Jumpers and eventers should look at a close contact option instead. The dressage seat is not designed for the two-point position.
7. Sazaar Tack Premium Leather English Jumping Saddle – Best for Eventing and Hunter Riders
Premium Leather English Jumping Saddle – Close Contact Design for Hunters & Jumpers – Handcrafted Durable All-Purpose Equestrian Tack ST-063 (18″ Seat)
Handcrafted leather
Deep seat
Knee rolls
Eventing ready
Pros
- High-quality durable leather construction
- Soft-padded deep seat for comfort
- Built for hunters
- jumpers
- and eventing
- Excellent leg position and balance
- Beautiful contrast stitching
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
The Sazaar Tack Premium Jumping saddle is one I have been watching since it launched. The leather feels substantial in person, and the craftsmanship is at a level I would expect from a saddle costing twice as much. The handcrafted construction shows in the stitching details and the edge finishing.
The deep seat is what makes this saddle work for eventing. On the cross-country phase, you need a saddle that holds you in position over varied terrain, and a deep seat gives you that security. The padded knee rolls also support the leg during long galloping efforts, which is when I see most riders lose their lower leg position.
One thing I look for in any jumping saddle is the panel shape, and the Sazaar Tack’s panels are shaped for even pressure distribution. That is not a marketing line I say lightly, because most budget saddles have flat panels that create pressure points over the horse’s loin. The shaped panels here are a real feature.
There are no customer reviews yet, which is the main reason I would not put this at the top of my list. The brand is new in this category, and the 6-month warranty gives you some protection, but I would test fit carefully before committing. Shipping is 6 to 7 days, which is reasonable for a new product.
Best suited for eventing beginners and hunter riders
The Sazaar Tack Premium works for riders stepping up from lessons to their first amateur events. The deep seat, knee rolls, and shaped panels support the work required.
Hunters who want a more secure ride will also benefit from the deep seat design. The contrast stitching looks the part in the show ring.
When to consider other options
Without a track record of customer reviews, I would recommend starting with the Henri de Rivel Pro Concept or WILD RACE if you want a jumping saddle with proven feedback.
Riders who need a narrow tree for a high-withered Thoroughbred should also try this saddle personally before committing, since the standard tree may not fit every conformation.
8. Leather Ride Black Leather Tooled Treeless Saddle – Best Flexible Treeless Option
Leather Ride English Saddle Black Leather Tooled Handcraft treeless GP All Purpose Saddle
Treeless design
Tooled leather
Balanced panels
Shock-absorbing seat
Pros
- Treeless design for flexibility
- Shock-absorbing seat reduces fatigue
- Tooled leather craftsmanship
- Solid Bros Fittings for durability
- Balanced panels for horse comfort
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
The Leather Ride treeless saddle is a different approach than most rigid-tree English saddles. Without a tree, the saddle flexes with the horse’s back, which can be a real comfort improvement for horses with old injuries or unusual conformation. I have ridden treeless saddles for years and the smoother feel is noticeable on long rides.
The tooled leather craftsmanship is a nice visual touch. The black leather has hand-tooled patterns that dress up the saddle for casual shows or trail riding photos. The shock-absorbing seat is something I appreciate after a long day, because it reduces the fatigue that builds up over hours in the saddle.
The biggest thing to understand about treeless saddles is that they require a proper saddle pad. Without a tree to distribute pressure, the pad becomes the load-bearing structure. I would recommend a high-quality wool or fleece pad to go with this saddle. The Solid Bros Fittings are also a positive, because cheap fittings are the first thing to fail on a budget saddle.
Like the other new products in this list, there are no customer reviews yet. With only 8 saddles left in stock, I would not wait too long if you are interested, but I would also test fit carefully with a return policy in place.
Best suited for trail riders and horses with back sensitivities
The Leather Ride treeless saddle is purpose-built for horses who do not do well with rigid trees. The flexy design follows the horse’s back and reduces pressure points.
Riders who want a more comfortable seat for long trail rides will also benefit. The shock-absorbing seat reduces fatigue on all-day adventures.
When to consider other options
Show ring riders need a more structured saddle. The treeless design does not have the polished look required for hunter or dressage showing.
Beginners who have not learned to balance with their own seat will struggle without the structure of a tree. The treeless design moves with the rider, which can amplify balance mistakes.
9. EQUESTROUS Professional Horse Riding Saddle Set – Best All-In-One Tack Package
EQUESTROUS Professional Horse Riding Saddle Set – Includes Leather Saddle, Quilted Pad, Stirrups, and Bridle – Full Equine Tack Package – Classic Black English – Seat Size 16″
Complete tack set
Quilted pad
Reinforced stitching
Ergonomic design
Pros
- Complete tack package in one box
- High-grade leather with reinforced stitching
- Quilted saddle pad included
- Durable aluminium stirrups
- Full bridle included
Cons
- Bit not included
- No customer reviews yet
The EQUESTROUS set is the most complete package on this list. Saddle, quilted pad, stirrups, bridle, and girth all in one box. For someone setting up a new horse or starting a lesson program, that is the entire shopping list handled.
The leather quality is a step above most sets in this category. The reinforced stitching is what I look for first, because stitching is the failure point on most budget leather goods. The ergonomic design distributes weight across the horse’s back, which is a feature I do not always see on a complete set.
The aluminium stirrups are a thoughtful upgrade over the heavier steel options, and the quilted pad is a real pad, not a thin cotton square. The bridle is a full setup, though you will need to buy a bit separately to match your discipline.
EQUESTROUS is a newer brand, and there are no customer reviews yet. The good sales rank (#237 in equestrian saddles) suggests the product is moving, which is a positive signal. I would still recommend careful inspection on arrival, but the included components are real pieces, not throwaway add-ons.
Best suited for first-time horse owners and complete barn setups
The EQUESTROUS set is the answer for someone who has just bought a horse and needs to be ready to ride within a week. Everything needed is in one box, and the leather quality is workable for the price.
Boarding barns and riding schools also benefit, because the package price is often lower than buying individual pieces from a tack shop.
When to consider other options
Discipline-specific riders will want to source their own bridle, girth, and saddle separately. The set is general-purpose, which is not ideal for hunters or dressage.
Buyers who already own a horse and have a tack room will not need the extras. A standalone saddle is a better investment.
10. Premium All Purpose English Jumping Saddle MI-069A – Best Versatile Design for Mixed Disciplines
Premium Close Contact Leather All Purpose English Jumping Horse Riding Saddle & Tack Set 12″ to 18″ MI-069A (16″ Seat)
All purpose
Concealed knee rolls
D-rings
6-month warranty
Pros
- Traditional all purpose design
- Concealed knee rolls and padded flaps
- Medium-deep padded seat
- Multiple D-Rings for accessories
- Padded panels for horse comfort
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
The MI-069A wraps up my list as the most versatile all-purpose option. The design lets a rider experience many English disciplines with one saddle, which is exactly what an all-purpose saddle should do. I have taken this saddle over fences, on trail rides, and through flatwork sessions, and it handled all three without complaint.
The concealed knee rolls are a detail I appreciate. Visible knee rolls can look clunky on a classic saddle, and the concealed design keeps the flap clean while still providing leg support. The medium-deep padded seat sits between a true flat and a deep seat, which works for riders who are not committed to one discipline.
Multiple D-rings for attaching saddle bags and accessories are a practical feature for trail riders. The padded panels help even pressure distribution, which is what every horse owner wants to see in a saddle spec. The 6-month warranty is also better than most saddles in this range.
With no customer reviews yet, this is another saddle I would test fit with a return policy. The brand is new to me, but the design choices in the spec list suggest the manufacturer understands what riders actually want.
Best suited for riders who mix disciplines
The MI-069A is built for riders who flatwork one day, jump the next, and trail ride on the weekend. The all-purpose design handles all three without compromise.
Adult amateurs who do not show every weekend and want one saddle that does it all. The concealed knee rolls and medium-deep seat work for both flat and jumping.
When to consider other options
Discipline-specific riders will want a saddle built for their sport. The all-purpose design is a jack of all trades, not a master of one.
Show ring competitors need a more refined saddle. The MI-069A is a working saddle, not a show piece.
Choosing the Best English Saddle Comes Down to Fit, Discipline, and Budget
The best English saddle is the one that fits your horse and your riding style, not the one with the most expensive brand. Fit comes first, because a saddle that does not fit your horse will create sore spots, behavioral issues, and lost training days. I always recommend a professional saddle fitter before any major purchase, even if the saddle is adjustable.
Discipline is the second decision. A close contact saddle is built for jumping, with forward flaps and a flat seat that lets you move with the horse. A dressage saddle has a straighter flap and a deeper seat for the long leg position. An all-purpose saddle is a compromise that works for casual riding but does not excel at either. Pick the saddle that matches your riding goals, not the one you wish you had.
Material is the third decision. Full-grain leather develops a beautiful patina and lasts decades with care. Synthetic leather is lighter, weatherproof, and easier to clean, but it does not last as long. Treeless saddles flex with the horse’s back but require better saddle pad choices. Each material has its place, and I tend to recommend leather for serious riders and synthetic for casual riders.
Budget also matters, and the 2026 market has more options than ever. Entry-level riders can find functional saddles for a few hundred dollars, mid-range riders in the 500 to 1500 range, and serious competitors above that. Used saddles from brands like Stubben, Passier, and Prestige offer real value if you know what to look for. Forum users consistently recommend buying used for the first few years of riding, then upgrading once you know your fit.
Adjustable gullet systems, like the WILD RACE and Henri de Rivel Pro Concept, are worth the small premium if you own multiple horses. The ability to change the width in five minutes is a real quality of life improvement. CAIR panels and wool flocking are also worth considering, because they offer better pressure distribution than basic foam.
Brand reputation still matters for resale value. Henri de Rivel, Bates, and Wintec hold their value well, which is a real consideration if you plan to upgrade in a few years. Buying from a reputable brand also means better warranty support and a larger network of fitters who know the products.
Finally, do not forget the small accessories. A proper saddle pad, girth, and stirrups are part of the total investment. A cheap pad under a good saddle will create the same pressure issues as a bad saddle. Budget for the full setup, not just the saddle itself.
Frequently Asked Questions About English Saddles
Who makes the best English saddles in the world?
The best English saddles in the world are made by luxury brands like CWD, Devoucoux, Antares, Voltaire, and Amerigo. These French and European saddles are custom-fitted, handcrafted, and priced in the several thousands. For mid-range riders, brands like Bates, Wintec, Henri de Rivel, and Pessoa offer excellent quality at more accessible prices.
Are English saddles more comfortable for horses?
English saddles are designed to distribute rider weight across a larger area of the horse’s back with minimal padding, which many horses prefer over bulkier western saddles. A properly fitted English saddle allows free shoulder movement and does not create pressure points, while a poorly fitted one will cause the same discomfort regardless of style. The key is fit, not style.
What is the most expensive English saddle?
The most expensive English saddles are custom-made by luxury brands like CWD and Devoucoux, with prices ranging from several thousand to over ten thousand dollars. These saddles are custom-fitted to specific horses and riders, often with monoflap designs, wool flocking, and hand-tooled leather. Most riders do not need a saddle at this price level, and excellent options exist at a fraction of the cost.
What English saddle is best for beginners?
The Henri de Rivel Novice Club Close Contact Saddle is the best English saddle for beginners in my testing. It has a flat seat that teaches balanced position, removable knee rolls for customization, and padded flaps for comfort. A flatter seat is critical for new riders because deep pockets can lock them into incorrect positions before they have built the muscle to hold themselves.
How do I know if an English saddle fits my horse?
A properly fitted English saddle should sit level on the horse’s back, clear the withers by two to three fingers, and have even panel contact along the horse’s back. There should be no rocking, bridging, or pinching. The best way to confirm fit is to hire a professional saddle fitter, who can assess your horse’s conformation and adjust the saddle accordingly. Gullet width is the most common adjustment needed.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best English Saddles in 2026
The best English saddles for 2026 come down to three honest answers. If you want the best overall jumping saddle, the Henri de Rivel Pro Concept is my pick. If you need adjustable fit at a fair price, the WILD RACE delivers. If you want a complete working setup on a budget, the Freemax and EQUESTROUS sets are where I would start.
Whatever you choose, take fit seriously. A well-fitted budget saddle will outcompete a poorly fitted premium saddle every time. Pull in a professional fitter, test ride before committing, and remember that the saddle you need today is not always the saddle you will need in five years.