Is it bad that i really struggle in dressage saddles?

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FinalFurlong

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I am mainly used to GP saddles through riding for about 7 years in them. Just got a horse on part loan who has a dressage and jumping saddle, i am fine in the trot but i really struggle asking for canter in the dressage saddle but i have never had a serious problem doing this in a GP saddle.

Worth pointing out that before i got new loan (after riding every single day in a GP saddle), for the past month before that i only rode racing style in a racing saddle once a week as id been told to cut down on the horses by my doctor (allergies) but now the allergy is sorted i ride 3 times a week, twice with loan horse and once racing style.

I just really struggle riding in the dressage saddle compared to a GP saddle, i feel really restricted like my leg is just locked into a straight position and i don't feel like i can move as much. Loan horse has a jumping saddle but not incredibly forward cut so im tempted to try riding him in this to see if it would help me

Ive always been told by instructors i either ride like a jockey or very show jumper esque, i am not very dressage esque at all!!
 
Goldenstar said:
Have you tired an ideal Jessica saddle ?
They are often great in this type of situation.
Click to expand...

The horse is only mine on part loan, i couldn't afford to get a saddle just for me to ride him 2 days a week.

I will try in his jumping saddle and see if i can school him in that, apparently its more of a slightly forward cut GP than a fully jumping saddle
 
It sounds like the saddle doesn't fit your physique.

Saddles have to fit both of you, horse and rider. Dressage saddles in particular come in many styles because one design won't fit all body shapes - what one person will find wonderful to ride in another will find excruciating.

If you ride in balance and a fair position in the GP saddle then perhaps start riding in that one until such a time you find a different design of dressage saddle that fits you both. Talk to your instructor - there are exercises that will help you achieve a good 'dressage-y' position - but you need a saddle that doesn't hinder you in that quest.
 
Dressage saddles don't really suit the female pelvis, unless you have very very long legs - that's why most saddlers now do the VSD which is a little more forward cut. Maybe one of those might suit you better?
 
I don't like being wedged in either, and I kind of think you should be able to stay in the right position anyway! I ride long and more dressage style myself but I much prefer a flatter seat style GP, maybe you are the same and you do get some dressage saddles of different design (a square cantle helps).

Try the jumping saddle and see how that goes, I'm sure you will find it more comfortable.
 
I can't ride in a dressage saddle to save my life!! Knees pop out everywhere! I understand your trauma lol :) find it much easier in a GP!
 
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