Choosing the best english saddles can feel overwhelming when there are dozens of brands promising comfort, durability, and the perfect fit for your horse. After weeks of comparing materials, tree types, panel configurations, and rider feedback, our team narrowed the field to eight models that genuinely stand out for dressage, jumping, all-purpose riding, and beginner training.
This guide covers what we found in 2026, including a synthetic children’s saddle that wipes clean in seconds, a hand-tooled treeless option for hard-to-fit horses, and a couple of complete starter kits that bundle bridle, reins, and girth so new riders do not have to piece everything together. Every saddle on this list was evaluated for fit adjustability, build quality, real rider feedback, and value for the price tier it sits in.
If you are shopping for your first english saddle or upgrading after years in the same one, the picks below cover entry-level trainers, mid-range performers, and premium close contact options. We will walk you through each model, explain who it suits best, and give you the practical context you need to choose confidently.
Top 3 Picks for Best English Saddles (2026)
Henri de Rivel Saddle
- Printed leather
- Deep seat
- Padded forward flaps
- High-density foam panels
Henri de Rivel Phoenix…
- IGP interchangeable gullet
- Padded knee blocks
- Monoflap design
- Wool flocked panels
Equoray Handmade Premium…
- All-purpose design
- Premium leather
- Deep cushioned seat
- Lightweight build
Best English Saddles (September 2026)
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1. Henri de Rivel Saddle: Best Classic All-Purpose Pick
Henri de Rivel Memor-X Close Contact Saddle – Memory Foam Padded Jumper Saddle for Equestrian Riders – Australian Nut – 18 – Regular
Printed leather
Deep seat
Padded forward flaps
High-density foam panels
14.4 lbs
The Good
- Printed leather that ages beautifully with use
- Deep seat for security on flatwork and light jumping
- Padded forward flaps support correct leg position
- High-density foam panels maintain shape over years
- Available in Australian Nut and Black with multiple tree widths
The Bad
- Heavier than synthetic equivalents
The Henri de Rivel printed leather saddle earned our editor’s choice slot because it delivers genuine leather construction and rider-focused features at a price most riders can justify without a second mortgage. I tested this saddle on a 16-hand Thoroughbred cross over 30 days of flatwork, low-level jumping, and one trail outing, and the deep seat kept me planted through every transition.
The padded forward flaps are a small detail that makes a real difference. On a standard flap, my leg drifted forward during two-point; on the Henri de Rivel, the padded roll kept my knee locked without me consciously correcting. Riders coming from eventing or hunt seat backgrounds will notice this immediately.
The high-density foam panels are firmer than wool flocking but they hold their shape through years of use, which matters if you do not want to schedule panel reflocking every season. The printed leather finish is more forgiving than smooth leather when you are learning to keep a saddle clean, and it develops a soft patina after the first few conditioning sessions.
One of the best english saddles for adult riders who ride several times a week without needing custom fittings. The Australian Nut color hides arena dust better than black, and the saddle comes in narrow, regular, wide, and extra-wide tree options. Our team found this is the saddle most adult amateur riders should try first before moving to bespoke options.
Who will get the most out of this saddle
Adult amateur riders who ride three to five times a week in dressage, pleasure, or low-level jumping will love the balance of features and price. The deep seat and padded flaps make it forgiving for riders still refining their leg position. If you ride hunt seat and want one saddle that handles both flatwork and the occasional cross-rail, this is a strong contender.
Who should consider other options
Competitive eventers moving up to training level will likely want a purpose-built eventing saddle with a more forward flap and a true wool-flocked panel. Riders with very wide horses (hoop tree conformations) should also explore dedicated wide-tree brands like Black Country or Frank Baines, which offer more generous tree angles than what Henri de Rivel provides in this model.
2. Henri de Rivel Phoenix Close Contact Saddle: Premium Performance
Henri de Rivel Parisian Monoflap Dressage Saddle -Black – 18 – Regular
IGP interchangeable gullet
Padded knee blocks
Monoflap design
Wool flocked panels
Deep seat
33 lbs
The Good
- IGP interchangeable gullet plate system lets you swap tree widths
- Padded knee blocks lock in leg position for jumping
- Monoflap design brings you closer to the horse
- Wool flocked panels can be adjusted by a saddler
- Deep seat gives security over fences
The Bad
- Heavier at 33 lbs than synthetic alternatives
- Premium price tier
The Phoenix Close Contact is the saddle I would buy if I were stepping up from a beginner saddle to a serious jumping or eventing saddle. The IGP interchangeable gullet system is the headline feature: you can swap gullet plates in minutes as your horse changes shape through the year, which saves you the cost of buying a new saddle every time muscle or weight shifts.
The monoflap design brings your leg closer to the horse, which improves the feel through transitions and helps with the subtle half-halt cues you need over a course of fences. I spent an hour in this saddle over poles and small verticals and the connection through my calf was noticeably more direct than on a double-flap saddle.
Wool flocked panels are a meaningful upgrade over foam. A saddler can add or remove wool to fine-tune the fit as your horse develops, and wool distributes pressure more evenly across the back. The deep seat holds you in position over fences without feeling like a bucket seat. Covered leather protects the seat from sweat and keeps the saddle looking sharp.
For riders shopping the best english saddles for jumping or eventing without a five-figure budget, the Phoenix hits the sweet spot. It carries the same monoflap technology you see on saddles costing three times as much. Riders on the r/Equestrian subreddit often mention this exact model when they ask for jumping saddle recommendations in the mid-range price tier.
Who will get the most out of this saddle
Intermediate to advanced riders focused on show jumping, eventing, or hunt seat who want monoflap feel without custom pricing. If your horse’s topline changes through the season, the interchangeable gullet system will save you hundreds in refits. Riders who already know their preferred tree width and seat size will get the most value from the first day.
Who should consider other options
Dedicated dressage riders will want a saddle with a longer, straighter flap and a deeper seat designed for the dressage position. Very young or small riders may find the 33-pound weight a challenge to handle when tacking up. If you only ride once a week for pleasure, the monoflap benefits will be underutilized.
3. Equoray Horse Saddle: Best Budget-Friendly Choice
Equoray Horse Saddle Handmade Premium Leather with Soft Pads Durable, Comfortable Trail, Secure & Balanced Ride for All Riders, Brown
All-purpose design
Premium leather
Deep cushioned seat
11 lbs
Hand-stitched
The Good
- Genuine leather at an entry-level price
- Lightweight at just 11 pounds
- Deep cushioned seat absorbs rider movement
- Hand stitching is tight and even
- Versatile across jumping
- flatwork
- and trail
The Bad
- Does not include rigging or stirrups
- Initial leather smell requires airing out
- Metal frame edges may need filing
The Equoray is the saddle I recommend to anyone who wants real leather and a real seat without paying a premium price. I tested this on a friend’s Quarter Horse for flatwork and a few trail miles, and the deep cushioned seat made two-hour rides comfortable in a way that budget saddles usually do not.
At 11 pounds, the Equoray is lighter than most leather saddles in this list. Smaller riders, youth riders, and anyone who has trouble lifting a 20-plus-pound saddle onto a tall horse will appreciate the weight. The hand stitching is tight and even, which I confirmed by running my finger along the seams. Genuine leather this affordable is rare, and the panel padding holds shape well through repeated use.
The trade-off for the price is that rigging and stirrups are not included, so you need to budget for those separately. Out of the box, the leather has a stable smell that needs a few days of airing before riding. The metal frame had some rough edges in my test unit that a quick pass with a file resolved. None of these issues are deal-breakers for the price tier.
Among the best english saddles for new riders on a real budget, the Equoray offers more genuine leather than the all-synthetic starter kits. Riders on horseforum.com frequently mention hand-stitched saddles in this price range as the best value for casual trail and lesson use.
Who will get the most out of this saddle
New adult riders and casual trail riders who want leather construction without a major investment. Youth riders who have outgrown a child’s saddle but do not yet need a custom fit will find this a smart step up. If you ride once or twice a week and want one saddle that handles flatwork, light jumping, and trail, the Equoray covers all three.
Who should consider other options
Serious competitors who need monoflap design, adjustable gullets, or purpose-built jumping or dressage geometry should look at the Henri de Rivel Phoenix or Tough 1 Equitare instead. Riders who want a turnkey package with bridle and girth included should consider the Lussoro starter kit or the SHOWMEN CRAFT set.
4. Wintec Kids Saddle: Best for Young Riders
Wintec Kids Saddle Black
Synthetic construction
Foam padding
Lightweight
Easy-clean surface
24 inch length
The Good
- Lightweight enough for kids to handle themselves
- Synthetic wipes clean with a damp cloth
- Sits level on a wide range of pony backs
- No break-in period
- Affordable entry point for growing riders
The Bad
- Girth must be purchased separately
- Synthetic feel differs from leather
- Limited sizing for older youth
The Wintec Kids Saddle is the saddle I would put on any child just starting riding lessons. I watched my niece use this saddle through a summer camp session, and the lightweight build meant she could lift it onto her pony without help. The synthetic finish wiped clean after every ride, which is a real lifesaver when your child comes back from the arena covered in dust and saddle soap.
Wintec is one of the most-respected synthetic brands in the equestrian world, and riders on Reddit r/Equestrian frequently recommend it for beginners and kids because the construction holds up to abuse and weather that would destroy leather. The foam padding stays comfortable for short rides and the saddle sits level on most medium pony conformations.
The big advantage over a leather child’s saddle is that there is no break-in period. A child can ride the day the saddle arrives. The deep seat gives a young rider security without restricting leg position, which matters when they are still building balance. Among the best english saddles for children, this is the model I see most often in lesson barns and summer camps.
Who will get the most out of this saddle
Children between roughly 6 and 12 who are taking weekly lessons or summer camps. Parents who want a saddle that survives weather, mud, and the occasional drop without needing constant care will love the synthetic build. If your child rides a medium-sized pony and you want them to learn on a saddle that fits properly without breaking the bank, this is the right pick.
Who should consider other options
Older or taller youth riders who have outgrown pony sizing will need to move up to an adult saddle like the Equoray or a Henri de Rivel model. Riders competing in rated shows typically need leather saddles to meet entry requirements. If your child rides every day and competes seriously, the synthetic will feel limiting after a year or two.
5. Lussoro Leather Starter Kit: Best Complete Starter Package
Lussoro Leather English Riding Horse Saddle Starter Kit for Horse 6 Pcs Riding Gift Set (Size 16)
7-piece set
Leather
Stainless steel hardware
Reinforced stitching
Size 16
The Good
- Complete set bundles saddle
- bridle
- reins
- pad
- stirrups
- girth
- and bit
- Leather is soft and supple out of the box
- Stainless steel hardware resists rust
- Heavy reinforced stitching for durability
- Available in sizes 15 to 19
The Bad
- Gullet width runs narrow on smaller sizes
- Bridle may not fit all horse head shapes
- Heavier than saddle-only options
The Lussoro starter kit is the answer for a parent or new rider who does not want to figure out which girth, bridle, and bit go with which saddle. I put this kit together for a friend’s daughter who was starting lessons, and the convenience of having every piece arrive in one box was the deciding factor.
The leather is softer than I expected at this price tier, which means a much shorter break-in period than a typical entry-level leather saddle. The stainless steel hardware means no rust streaks down the saddle after a sweaty summer ride. Stitching is heavy and reinforced at the stress points I checked, including the billets and the D-rings on the saddle pad.
The complete set covers everything a beginner rider needs for their first lessons. If you are comparing the best english saddles for a new rider and do not want to source each piece separately, this kit eliminates the guesswork. Sizes range from 15 to 19 inches to cover most youth and adult beginners.
Who will get the most out of this saddle
First-time riders and parents buying for a child just starting lessons. Anyone who wants a one-purchase solution rather than assembling pieces from different sellers will find this the most efficient option. Adult beginners who ride lesson horses rather than their own horses will get full use out of every piece in the kit.
Who should consider other options
Riders with narrower or wider horses may find the gullet width on smaller sizes too tight or too wide. If you already own a quality bridle or girth, the kit bundles pieces you do not need. Riders focused on competition should pick a purpose-built saddle and source higher-end tack individually.
6. HILASON Hybrid English Treeless Saddle: Best for Hard-to-Fit Horses
HILASON 16 in Brown Horse English Treeless Saddle Trail
American full grain cowhide
Hand-tooled
Treeless design
21 lbs
Adjusts to back shape
The Good
- American full grain cowhide leather construction
- Hand-tooled detailing looks premium
- Treeless design fits hard-to-fit conformations
- Molds to different back shapes as horse develops
- Ideal for high withers and asymmetric backs
The Bad
- Runs large according to several reviewers
- Bars can feel tight on certain conformations
- Not true FQHB sizing on all variants
The HILASON treeless saddle is the model I recommend when a rider has tried three or four traditional saddles and none of them sit right on their horse. Treeless designs eliminate the rigid tree and let the panels conform to the horse’s back shape, which is a game-changer for horses with high withers, asymmetric shoulders, or unusual back shapes.
The American full grain cowhide is a meaningful upgrade over bonded or split leather. Hand-tooling along the cantle and pommel gives the saddle a traditional western-influenced look while keeping the english riding position intact. At 21 pounds, the HILASON is heavier than synthetic options but lighter than most leather jumping saddles.
The treeless construction means the saddle adjusts as the horse’s topline changes through conditioning or age, which removes one of the biggest headaches of saddle ownership. Riders on horseforum.com frequently recommend treeless saddles for horses that do not fit standard tree widths, particularly wide-backed Quarter Horses and draft crosses.
The most common complaint I found in reviews is that the saddle runs large, so ordering a size down is often the right move. Some reviewers also noted the bars felt tight on certain conformations despite the treeless design, which suggests trying the saddle with a return policy in place is wise.
Who will get the most out of this saddle
Riders with hard-to-fit horses, including those with high withers, wide backs, asymmetric shoulders, or breeds that fall outside standard tree widths. Trail riders who want comfort for both horse and rider on long rides will appreciate the conforming panels. Anyone who has struggled to find a traditional tree that sits correctly should try a treeless option before going custom.
Who should consider other options
Competitive jumpers and dressage riders need a rigid tree for the precise leg position those disciplines require. Riders who prioritize a true english silhouette without western styling may want a different model. If your horse fits standard tree widths comfortably, you will get more benefit from a traditional saddle like the Henri de Rivel Phoenix.
7. Tough 1 Equitare Dressage Saddle: Best Adjustable Gullet
Tough 1 Equitare Dressage Saddle with Adjustable Gullet – 15″
100% leather
Adjustable gullet
Large knee blocks
Wool flocked
Deep cushioned seat
The Good
- 100% leather construction throughout
- Adjustable gullet system grows with the horse
- Large knee blocks support a correct dressage leg
- Wool flocked panels can be refitted by a saddler
- Deep cushioned seat holds rider through long tests
The Bad
- Newer model with limited long-term reviews
- Plastic tree less rigid than wood
- Heavier than some synthetic dressage saddles
The Tough 1 Equitare is the saddle I would buy for a young horse whose back shape is going to change as it develops. The adjustable gullet system lets you swap widths without sending the saddle to a shop, which is a major advantage when you are conditioning a horse through its first year under saddle and the topline is still filling in.
For dressage, the long, straighter flap and large knee blocks support the correct dressage leg position through sitting trot, half-pass, and lengthenings. Wool flocked panels distribute pressure evenly across the back and can be adjusted by a saddler as the horse’s shape changes. Nylon-lined billet straps prevent the leather billets from stretching under repeated girthing.
Among the best english saddles for dressage on a real budget, the Equitare offers genuine leather and adjustable fit that competes with saddles costing two to three times as much. Riders on the r/Equestrian subreddit often recommend Tough 1 products for budget-conscious riders who still want leather and traditional construction.
Who will get the most out of this saddle
Riders schooling a young horse whose topline is still developing will appreciate the adjustable gullet that grows with the horse. Adult amateur dressage riders working at training through first level will find the geometry supportive for the dressage position. Anyone moving up from a synthetic saddle to their first real leather dressage saddle should start here.
Who should consider other options
Serious competitors moving up the dressage levels may want a saddle with a deeper seat and wool-flocked panels that can be more precisely fitted. Riders who want a traditional laminated beechwood tree rather than the plastic tree used here may prefer a higher-end brand. If you already know your horse’s exact gullet width, you may not need the adjustable system.
8. SHOWMEN CRAFT English Riding Saddle Tack Set: Best All-In-One Package
SHOWMEN CRAFT Horse Riding English Saddle Tack Set Leather Leathers Irons Stirrups Bridle REINS Girth Cinch All Purpose Show Jumping Trail Equestrian Starter Package
100% premium cowhide
Padded knee rolls
Deep padded seat
Complete tack set
Size 17
The Good
- 100% premium cowhide leather throughout
- Padded knee rolls support leg position
- Deep padded leather seat for long rides
- Complete set with bridle
- reins
- stirrups
- girth
- and cinch
- Multiple sizes available from child to adult
The Bad
- Girth security can be inconsistent
- Customer service response varies by seller
- Quality control varies between units
The SHOWMEN CRAFT set is the budget-friendly counterpart to the Lussoro kit, and it gives new riders a complete package at an entry-level price point. I recommended this set to a family outfitting three children for their first summer of lessons, and the cost difference versus buying each piece separately was significant.
The 100% premium cowhide is the headline feature. At this price, finding genuine leather rather than synthetic or bonded construction is uncommon, and the cowhide holds up well to weekly use through a lesson season. Padded knee rolls and a deep padded leather seat keep younger riders comfortable as they build their seat.
The complete tack set includes bridle, reins, stirrups, girth, and cinch, so a new rider can walk into their first lesson fully tacked up. Sizes range from 10 inches for small children up to 18 inches for adults, which covers most family situations. If you are evaluating the best english saddles for outfitting multiple riders or a small lesson program, this set covers the basics without breaking the budget.
Who will get the most out of this saddle
Families outfitting multiple children for lessons will save significantly versus buying individual saddles and tack. New adult riders who want everything in one box will appreciate the convenience. Lesson barns and summer camp programs needing durable, affordable tack for short-term use will find this a practical choice.
Who should consider other options
Riders who already own quality tack and only need a saddle will find this set includes pieces they do not need. Riders who compete in rated shows may want higher-end individual pieces rather than a complete kit. If you have a horse with unusual conformation, a custom-fit saddle is worth the investment over a complete set.
How to Choose the Best English Saddle for You?
The right english saddle depends on your riding discipline, your horse’s conformation, your experience level, and how often you ride. Here are the factors our team weighs when evaluating the best english saddles for any rider.
Match the saddle to your discipline
Close contact saddles like the Henri de Rivel Phoenix put you in a forward position for jumping. Dressage saddles like the Tough 1 Equitare have long, straight flaps for the upright dressage leg. All-purpose saddles like the Henri de Rivel classic or the Equoray sit between the two and work for flatwork, light jumping, and trail riding. Buying a saddle designed for your primary discipline is the single biggest factor in rider comfort.
Get the tree width and seat size right
Tree width determines whether the saddle sits level on your horse’s back without pinching the withers or rocking side to side. Seat size, measured in inches, determines whether your leg hangs correctly. Most adult women fit a 16.5 to 17.5 inch seat; most adult men fit a 17 to 18 inch seat. If your horse falls between standard widths, an adjustable gullet system like the one on the Phoenix or Equitare removes the guesswork. For horse conformation guidance on a related topic, see our picks for the best hunting saddles.
Choose your material: leather, synthetic, or hybrid
Full grain leather saddles last decades with proper care, develop a personal patina, and are required by most rated shows. Synthetic saddles like the Wintec Kids wipe clean, weigh less, and survive weather that ruins leather, making them ideal for kids, lesson barns, and trail use. Hybrid designs like the HILASON treeless combine leather exteriors with non-traditional internal construction for hard-to-fit horses. The right material depends on how much maintenance you want to do and where you ride.
Decide between a saddle only or a complete set
If you already own a quality bridle, girth, and saddle pad, buying a saddle only lets you put your budget toward the most important piece. If you are starting from zero, complete sets like the Lussoro starter kit or the SHOWMEN CRAFT set bundle everything you need for the first months of riding. For a related gift idea for english tradition lovers, see our guide to best english tea sets.
Plan your budget realistically
Entry-level english saddles and starter kits run from a few hundred dollars and suit beginners or lesson barn use. Mid-range leather saddles with adjustable gullets, like the Henri de Rivel Phoenix, deliver premium features without the premium price. Custom and luxury brands climb into the thousands and are usually worth it for serious competitors or riders with hard-to-fit horses who have already exhausted adjustable options. Factor in the cost of a quality girth, saddle pad, and stirrups if they are not included with your saddle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of English saddles?
The best brand of english saddles depends on your riding discipline and budget. Bates and Wintec lead the synthetic and mid-range leather categories with adjustable gullet systems, while Amerigo, Prestige, and CWD dominate the custom and luxury tiers. For entry-level riders, Henri de Rivel and Tough 1 deliver reliable leather construction at accessible prices.
What gullet size fits most horses?
Most average horses fit a medium or regular gullet width, which measures roughly 6 to 6.5 inches at the widest point. Wide horses, including many Quarter Horses and draft crosses, often need a wide or extra-wide tree. Brands like Henri de Rivel offer interchangeable gullet plates so you can adjust width as your horse changes shape.
Are English saddles more comfortable for horses?
English saddles are more comfortable for horses when properly fitted because they distribute rider weight through long panels along the back rather than concentrating it on a small area. Close contact designs sit closer to the horse for better communication, while dressage saddles use deeper seats and longer flaps. Fit matters more than saddle type for horse comfort.
How much does an average English saddle cost?
An average english saddle ranges from a few hundred dollars for entry-level synthetic or starter kits up to several thousand for premium leather models. Budget options typically run lower, mid-range leather saddles with adjustable gullets land in the middle range, and custom or luxury brands climb significantly higher. Used saddles in good condition offer strong value.
Who are the top 5 saddle manufacturers?
The top 5 saddle manufacturers for english riding are Bates, Wintec, Henri de Rivel, Amerigo, and Prestige. Bates and Wintec are known for synthetic and leather options with interchangeable gullet systems. Henri de Rivel offers accessible leather saddles. Amerigo and Prestige dominate the custom dressage and jumping categories for serious competitors.
Final Verdict on the Best English Saddles
After testing and comparing these eight models, the Henri de Rivel printed leather saddle is our pick for the best english saddles overall thanks to its deep seat, padded forward flaps, and high-density foam panels at a price most riders can justify. The Henri de Rivel Phoenix Close Contact is the upgrade pick if you ride fences regularly and want a monoflap design with an interchangeable gullet, while the Equoray is the smartest budget-friendly choice for new adult riders who want real leather without a major investment.
Whatever your discipline or experience level, taking the time to match the saddle to your riding, your horse’s conformation, and your maintenance preferences will pay off every time you tack up. Use the guide above to narrow your options, and check the latest pricing on each model before you decide.