Side Saddle Help!

[ahorseandadog]

I took a side-saddle lesson the other day and really enjoyed it! (I went to Valley Farm Equestrian Leisure in case you would like to). Anyway, I was wondering whether it is possible to train a horse to side-saddle riding while also riding them in the English style. Or would you only be able to train a horse sidesaddle when its young and not backed?

And if you do train a horse to side-saddle, then a) where can you buy a saddle, b) where could you meet up with other side-saddle riders (meetings, competitions etc.) and c) does anyone know of any side-saddle instructors that are not tied to a riding school?

Thanks for all the help, looking forward to doing a lot more side-saddle!

 

[iconique]

Congratulations! You've got the bug!

Yes most horses are able to ride astride and sideways, but not usually a young horse due to the saddle weight and potential pressure on their back. You can buy saddles there are specialists and people sell on the advertising sites, but suggest you get some help as there are some very uncomfortable and iffy saddles out there (think import!!), you can also hire too.

There is quite an active side saddle community including shows, suggest if you are on Facebook to find sidesaddle riders, also the Side Saddle Association have a website, then you can find your area, instructors etc in your area (not usually tied to a riding school)
Good luck!

 

[sidesaddlegirl]

Yes, you can ride still ride astride and train side saddle at the same time. You will probably notice your astride riding starts to get better too as you start to develop a more dressage seat. I don't ride astride anymore, only side saddle (and offside) but you can compete at normal shows side saddle as well (I do) as well as going to side saddle only shows. The only resistance I'm finding with side saddle is with Western associations which is a shame as I have a beautiful western side saddle and my mare's western training is going well!
Yes, search on Facebook for Sidesaddle Riders!, we are an active group.

 

[neddy man]

Go to www.bhs.org.uk/ hover over training and qualifications, scroll to register of instructors,and click mouse.Underneath more information box, click find a registered instructor,click all instructors, click side saddle, shows 17 nationwide ,but there is a district search aswell, to pinpoint one closest to you. My daughter has lessons from Lisa Lane ,she is brilliant ,and my daughter and horse are loving it.There is a loan system for saddles, to buy one is mega money but your instructor will advise you .Enjoy.

 

[LittleTero]

I have to ask above have you loaned a side saddle? I've been desperately trying to find one for lease and am currently falling short of finding anyone who does this still? Everyone I've contacted seems to have gone on to sell now instead. Thanks!

 

[neddy man]

No . We use Lisas for lessons Lisa told us about the loan system, i think they are from the side saddle association , look her number up and ask her advice.

 

[LittleTero]

Thank you!

 

[Carefreegirl]

OP if you get a chance pop over to Addington this weekend as the SSA have a big show on there. There's normally several stands there who can advise / guide you.

 

[ahorseandadog]

Would you recommend renting or buying a side-saddle if you are just starting out and very keen?