Side saddle

[emilyandnessa]

Ok… Ive been playing with the idea of training my mare to side saddle and would really like to have a go! She is an ultra responsive ex race horse is currently coming back from injury so was wondering if it would be a good time to think about getting some lessons (possibly on another horse) seen as I’m only walking her at the moment maybe it would be a good way to establish my balance!

Do any forum members ride side saddle? What do you do (compete / hunt)?
How stressful do you think it is for the horse to start to change over?
Who would people recommend for finding out more (tack, instruction ect)?

 

[Ezme]

I went one a "taster evening" a few months ago and it was fab. YO said most horses take to it really easilly and because a sidesaddle horse is supposed to be an elegant ladies hack, and we all know we're weak and defencless, they go mostly off the voice. E-mail the side saddle association for local instructors, their great and e-mail back very quickly.

 

[hellybelly6]

Yes I used to work at a hunting yard where they hunted side saddle and when I changed to an arab stud the owner rode side saddle too.

Have lessons first to see if you like it, it is a lot harder than astride.

Despite sitting 'sideways' you must always keep your pelvis and shoulders square and in line with the horse's. It is also a very secure way of riding as there are two pommels the leaping head and the fixed head which you can hold on to between your knees. The reins are held with your right knee between them, slightly longer than in riding astride and it is usual for a double bridle/pelham to be used. The action of the bits are little stronger because of the position of the hands.

Most already fully backed horses take well to the side saddle, but put it on with out a rider for a while without the balancing strap, it can make some horses buck. Your side saddler instructor will be able to further advise you.

Let us know how you get on!

 

[ironhorse]

Sounds good...TB's make great side saddle horses and unless she's got a very high wither are relatively easy to find a saddle for.

If she's only walking at the mo, you could do a bit of side saddle, but would suggest you have a lesson on another horse so you've got the basics in case she spooks or suddenly has a lively moment! You need to get the feel of trot and canter - it can feel very odd if the horse suddenly moves up a gear and you're not used to side saddle.

One other thing, TB's have usually got a lovely long swingy walk which will probably move the saddle about a bit, so I would keep the sessions very short initially to prevent her back becoming sore.

It is very easy to get hooked on side saddle - I rode side saddle more or less exclusively for nearly 20 years and was lucky enough to have some lovely horses to ride. I showed in both proper side saddle classes and up to county level in show and working cob classes, did dressage and showjumping and with one very special horse hunted eight consecutive seasons, hunter trialled and even a team chase.
Unfortunately, our current horse is a 'proper' American Quarter Horse and is just too wide and muscled up for a side saddle to fit. I'm hoping to breed from her in the long term and produce the ultimate side saddle horse.

Have fun!