Square cantles - advice plse

[Chunkie]

I have seen a saddle I quite like but it has a square cantle. Now for some reason, I really don't like the look of it, but the saddle appears to be a good buy.

I have seen another almost identical, but with a traditional shaped cantle. Why are saddles made with square ones, and how does it affect the rider? I've never ridden on one and would like some advice/info please.

Thanks x

 

[Meowy Catkin]

It is purely a style issue and makes no difference to the rider. If the saddle fits the horse it really doesn't matter if the saddle has a round or square cantle.

*Rings bell-of-shame*

 

[unicornleather]

The skirts should be square to match the cantle or it can look strange as I have seen on some incorrectly made saddles.
I like square cantles I think they are quite stylish but that is my opinion and not everyone elses of course!

 

[GreyConnemara]

I prefer a square cantle if I will be jumping in the saddle, as I feel it allows much more room and doesn't interfere with my position at all, and also my body protector can sometimes catch on a round cantle when landing from a big jump.

For a general riding/showing/hacking saddle, I would go for a round cantle as IMO they allow you to sit deeper and to an extent hold you in, but that's just my experience - obviously it depends on the way the saddle is cut etc.

May be worth noting that my showing saddle (round cantle) is 17" and my jumping saddle (square cantle) is 17.5", so again, more room in the square cantle.