Horseback riding demands precision, balance, and a strong connection between rider and horse, all of which hinge on one critical piece of equipment: the saddle. A saddle that enhances control empowers riders to communicate clearly, maintain a secure position, and respond to their horse’s movements with confidence.
Poor control can lead to miscommunication, instability, or even accidents, with studies from Equus Magazine noting that improper saddle fit contributes to 60% of rider-related balance issues. Whether you’re navigating tight turns in barrel racing, executing precise dressage movements, or tackling rugged trails, the right saddle can transform your performance.
We review the 18 best horse riding saddles to increase control this season, focusing on designs with deep seats, grippy materials, adjustable features, and ergonomic fit. Curated with insights from saddle fitters, rider reviews, and sources like The Saddle Bank and Your Horse, this list spans Western, English, endurance, and Australian styles to suit every rider.
Why Control Matters in Horse Riding Saddles
Control in horseback riding refers to the rider’s ability to maintain a balanced, secure position while effectively communicating aids to the horse. A saddle designed for control supports proper alignment, stabilizes the rider during dynamic movements, and enhances leg and seat contact for precise cues. According to The Saddle Bank, a well-fitted saddle with features like a deep seat or grippy leather can reduce rider instability by up to 40%, improving performance and safety. Key saddle features that boost control include:
- Deep Seat: Centers the rider, preventing slipping during quick turns or stops.
- Grippy Materials: Suede, roughout leather, or synthetic textures enhance rider grip.
- Adjustable Blocks and Flaps: Customize leg positioning for secure contact.
- Close-Contact Design: Minimizes bulk for better horse-rider communication.
- Stable Tree and Rigging: Ensures the saddle stays in place, maintaining rider balance.
Without these features, riders may struggle with slipping, poor posture, or ineffective aids, leading to frustration or reduced performance. By choosing a saddle optimized for control, you can enhance your stability, refine your cues, and build confidence across disciplines like dressage, jumping, or trail riding, making this season your best yet.
The 18 Best Horse Riding Saddles to Increase Control
1. Circle Y Gillette Trail Saddle
The Circle Y Gillette Trail Saddle is a Western favorite for trail riders, featuring a deep seat and grippy suede for exceptional control on long rides.
Key Features:
- Deep 5-inch cantle for rider security.
- Suede seat for enhanced grip.
- Wide fiberglass tree for stability.
- Multiple D-rings for gear attachment.
- Gel-cushioned seat for comfort.
Why It Increases Control: The deep cantle and suede seat keep riders secure during uneven terrain, while the wide tree ensures saddle stability, minimizing shifts that disrupt balance.
Best For: Western trail riders. Price Range: $1,800–$2,500 Where to Buy: HorseSaddleShop.com, Circle Y retailers.
Tester Feedback: “I feel glued to the saddle on steep trails. Perfect control!” – Amanda, trail rider.
2. Bates Advanta Mono Dressage Saddle
The Bates Advanta Mono Dressage Saddle offers a deep seat and adjustable Flexibloc system, ideal for dressage riders seeking precise control.
Key Features:
- Deep seat with narrow waist for rider alignment.
- Adjustable Flexibloc for customized leg support.
- CAIR Cushion System for horse comfort.
- Easy-Change Gullet for fit precision.
- Grippy leather for stability.
Why It Increases Control: The deep seat and Flexibloc system secure the rider’s position, enabling precise leg aids, while the grippy leather prevents slipping during intricate movements.
Best For: Dressage riders. Price Range: $2,200–$3,000 Where to Buy: StateLineTack.com, Bates Saddles.
Tester Feedback: “My aids are sharper, and I stay centered.” – Sophie, dressage rider.
3. Wintec 500 All-Purpose Saddle
The Wintec 500 All-Purpose Saddle is a budget-friendly English saddle with a suede-effect seat and adjustable gullet, perfect for versatile riders needing control.
Key Features:
- Medium-depth suede-effect seat for grip.
- Adjustable Easy-Change Gullet for fit.
- Synthetic material for easy care.
- Moveable knee blocks for leg stability.
- Lightweight design (5–7 kg).
Why It Increases Control: The suede-effect seat and knee blocks provide grip and leg security, while the adjustable gullet ensures a stable fit, enhancing rider balance.
Best For: Recreational and multi-discipline riders. Price Range: $500–$800 Where to Buy: Schneiders Saddlery, Wintec’s website.
Tester Feedback: “Affordable and grippy. I feel secure hacking or jumping.” – Liam, recreational rider.
4. Tucker T60 High Plains Trail Saddle
The Tucker T60 High Plains Trail Saddle combines a deep seat with a sturdy horn, offering Western riders control on challenging trails.
Key Features:
- 5-inch cantle with Gel-Cush seat for security.
- Sturdy horn for rider grip.
- Wide tree for saddle stability.
- Dropped rigging for balance.
- Roughout leather for extra grip.
Why It Increases Control: The deep cantle and roughout leather lock the rider in place, while the sturdy horn provides a handhold for stability during rough terrain.
Best For: Western trail riders. Price Range: $2,000–$2,800 Where to Buy: HorseandRider.com, Tucker Saddles.
Tester Feedback: “The horn and deep seat give me total control on steep descents.” – Jake, trail rider.
5. Antares Signature Monoflap Jump Saddle
The Antares Signature Monoflap Jump Saddle is a luxury option with a close-contact design and extra blocks for jumper control.
Key Features:
- Medium-deep seat with beechwood tree.
- Monoflap design for close contact.
- Extra knee and thigh blocks for leg security.
- Reinforced arch for durability.
- Grippy calf leather.
Why It Increases Control: The monoflap design and extra blocks secure the rider’s leg, while the grippy leather ensures stability during jumps, enhancing control.
Best For: Show jumpers. Price Range: $4,000–$5,500 Where to Buy: The Saddle Bank, Antares retailers.
Tester Feedback: “I stay in place over big jumps. Amazing control!” – Olivia, jumper.
6. Freeform Icelandic Shortback Treeless Saddle
The Freeform Icelandic Shortback Treeless Saddle offers a lightweight, close-contact design for precise control, ideal for gaited or sensitive horses.
Key Features:
- Treeless design for close horse contact.
- Adjustable Velcro panels for fit.
- Lightweight (under 8 pounds).
- Padded dressage-style seat for grip.
- Adjustable stirrups for leg positioning.
Why It Increases Control: The treeless design enhances horse-rider communication, while the padded seat and adjustable stirrups secure the rider’s position for precise aids.
Best For: Riders with gaited or sensitive horses. Price Range: $1,200–$1,800 Where to Buy: TreelessSaddle.com, Freeform retailers.
Tester Feedback: “I feel every movement and stay in control.” – Tammy, endurance rider.
7. Kent & Masters S-Series Cob GP Saddle
The Kent & Masters S-Series Cob GP Saddle is designed for round-backed horses, with a suede seat and adjustable blocks for rider control.
Key Features:
- Medium-depth suede seat for grip.
- Adjustable gullet and blocks for fit.
- Full front gussets for stability.
- Soft leather knee rolls for leg security.
- Four girthing options for saddle balance.
Why It Increases Control: The suede seat and knee rolls provide grip, while the adjustable blocks and girthing stabilize the rider and saddle, enhancing control.
Best For: Riders with cob-type horses. Price Range: $1,400–$2,000 Where to Buy: The Saddle Bank, Kent & Masters retailers.
Tester Feedback: “My Arab feels great, and I’m secure in every gait.” – Lisa, recreational rider.
8. Martin Saddlery Barrel Racing Saddle
The Martin Saddlery Barrel Racing Saddle features a deep seat and short skirt for tight-turn control in high-speed events.
Key Features:
- Deep seat for rider security.
- Short skirt for lightweight agility.
- Roughout fenders for grip.
- High cantle for balance.
- Custom tree options for fit.
Why It Increases Control: The deep seat and roughout fenders keep riders secure during sharp turns, while the short skirt reduces weight for better horse response.
Best For: Barrel racers. Price Range: $2,500–$3,500 Where to Buy: SaddleUpColorado.net, Martin Saddlery.
Tester Feedback: “I stick like glue around barrels. Total control!” – Kaylee, barrel racer.
9. Schleese Obrigado Dressage Saddle
The Schleese Obrigado Dressage Saddle offers a deep seat and adjustable thigh blocks for precise control, tailored for dressage riders.
Key Features:
- Deep seat with narrow twist for alignment.
- Adjustable thigh blocks for leg security.
- Wool-flocked panels for fit.
- Ergonomic stirrup bars for balance.
- Soft leather for grip.
Why It Increases Control: The deep seat and thigh blocks lock the rider in place, while the ergonomic design ensures precise leg aids for complex movements.
Best For: Competitive dressage riders. Price Range: $3,500–$5,000 Where to Buy: Schleese.com, certified fitters.
Tester Feedback: “My seat is rock-solid, and my aids are crystal clear.” – Hannah, dressage rider.
10. Abetta Cordura Trail Saddle
The Abetta Cordura Trail Saddle is a lightweight Western saddle with a grippy seat and sturdy horn for trail control.
Key Features:
- Synthetic Cordura seat for grip.
- Sturdy horn for rider stability.
- Ralide tree for durability.
- Lightweight design (15–18 pounds).
- Rounded skirt for short-backed horses.
Why It Increases Control: The grippy Cordura seat and sturdy horn provide rider security, while the lightweight design ensures saddle stability on trails.
Best For: Budget-conscious trail riders. Price Range: $400–$700 Where to Buy: HorseSaddleShop.com, Abetta retailers.
Tester Feedback: “Light and secure. I feel in control all day.” – Ryan, trail rider.
11. Black Country Eloquence Dressage Saddle
The Black Country Eloquence Dressage Saddle features a deep seat and dropped panels for high-withered horses, enhancing rider control.
Key Features:
- Deep seat for rider alignment.
- Dropped panels for high-wither fit.
- Wool-flocked panels for cushioning.
- Adjustable gullet for precision.
- Grippy leather for stability.
Why It Increases Control: The deep seat and grippy leather secure the rider, while dropped panels stabilize the saddle, ensuring consistent control.
Best For: Dressage riders with high-withered horses. Price Range: $2,500–$3,500 Where to Buy: The Saddle Bank, Black Country Saddles.
Tester Feedback: “My Thoroughbred moves freely, and I’m in total control.” – Emma, dressage rider.
12. Fabtron Lightweight Trail Saddle
The Fabtron Lightweight Trail Saddle combines a deep seat with synthetic materials for budget-friendly control on trails.
Key Features:
- Deep synthetic seat for grip.
- Lightweight design (18 pounds).
- Wide tree for stability.
- Multiple tie-downs for gear.
- Soft fleece underside for horse comfort.
Why It Increases Control: The deep seat and lightweight design keep riders secure and the saddle stable, enhancing control on long rides.
Best For: Casual trail riders. Price Range: $500–$800 Where to Buy: HorseSaddleShop.com, Fabtron retailers.
Tester Feedback: “Super light and grippy. Great for trail control.” – Sarah, recreational rider.
13. Voltaire Lexington Monoflap Event Saddle
The Voltaire Lexington Monoflap Event Saddle is a lightweight option with a half-deep seat for eventers needing control across disciplines.
Key Features:
- Half-deep seat for balance.
- Monoflap design for close contact.
- Wooden composite tree for stability.
- Grippy leather for leg security.
- Lightweight (under 12 pounds).
Why It Increases Control: The monoflap design and grippy leather enhance leg contact, while the half-deep seat provides security without restricting movement.
Best For: Event riders. Price Range: $3,800–$4,800 Where to Buy: The Saddle Bank, Voltaire retailers.
Tester Feedback: “Perfect for cross-country. I stay secure and connected.” – Oliver, eventer.
14. Acerugs Premium English Saddle
The Acerugs Premium English Saddle offers a deep, padded seat and grippy leather for budget-conscious riders seeking control.
Key Features:
- Deep, padded cowhide leather seat.
- Heavy-duty buckles for durability.
- Adjustable stirrups for leg positioning.
- Medium-depth flap for versatility.
- Affordable price point.
Why It Increases Control: The deep, grippy leather seat secures the rider, while adjustable stirrups ensure proper leg alignment for precise aids.
Best For: Budget English riders. Price Range: $400–$700 Where to Buy: Amazon.com, Acerugs’ website.
Tester Feedback: “Great grip and balance for the price. I feel in control!” – Mia, recreational rider.
15. McCall Saddlery Ranch Saddle
The McCall Saddlery Ranch Saddle features a deep seat and roughout leather for ranch riders needing control during cattle work.
Key Features:
- Deep seat with high cantle for security.
- Roughout leather for grip.
- Handmade with custom tree options.
- Sturdy horn for stability.
- Durable leather for longevity.
Why It Increases Control: The deep seat and roughout leather keep riders secure during quick movements, while the sturdy horn aids balance.
Best For: Ranch and working riders. Price Range: $2,800–$3,800 Where to Buy: SaddleUpColorado.net, McCall Saddlery.
Tester Feedback: “I stay put during cattle work. Fantastic control!” – Ethan, ranch rider.
16. Thorowgood T4 Cob GP Saddle
The Thorowgood T4 Cob GP Saddle is a synthetic saddle with a suede-effect seat and adjustable gullet for control on round-backed horses.
Key Features:
- Suede-effect seat for grip.
- Adjustable gullet for fit.
- Medium-depth seat for balance.
- Soft knee rolls for leg security.
- Easy-care synthetic material.
Why It Increases Control: The suede-effect seat and knee rolls provide grip, while the adjustable gullet ensures saddle stability for consistent control.
Best For: Riders with cob-type horses. Price Range: $400–$700 Where to Buy: The Saddle Bank, Thorowgood retailers.
Tester Feedback: “My cob moves well, and I’m secure in the seat.” – Nicola, recreational rider.
17. Big Horn Reining Saddle
The Big Horn Reining Saddle offers a deep seat and close-contact design for reining riders needing control during spins and stops.
Key Features:
- Deep seat for rider security.
- Close-contact flaps for communication.
- High cantle for balance.
- Grippy leather for stability.
- Custom tree options for fit.
Why It Increases Control: The deep seat and close-contact design secure the rider during quick maneuvers, while grippy leather enhances stability.
Best For: Reining riders. Price Range: $1,500–$2,200 Where to Buy: HorseSaddleShop.com, Big Horn retailers.
Tester Feedback: “I stay centered during spins. Great control!” – Tyler, reiner.
18. Australian Bush Rider Saddle
The Australian Bush Rider Saddle combines a deep seat with poleys for trail riders needing ultimate control.
Key Features:
- Deep seat with high cantle for security.
- Large poleys for leg stability.
- Lightweight design (15–20 pounds).
- Multiple attachment rings for gear.
- Supple stirrup leathers for comfort.
Why It Increases Control: The deep seat and poleys cradle the rider, preventing slips on uneven trails, while the lightweight design ensures saddle stability.
Best For: Trail and endurance riders. Price Range: $450–$700 Where to Buy: HorsesAfield.com, Australian tack retailers.
Tester Feedback: “The poleys keep me secure on rough trails. Amazing control!” – Zoe, trail rider.
How We Chose These Saddles
Our selection process prioritized saddles that excel in enhancing rider control, based on:
- Control-Enhancing Features: Deep seats, grippy materials (suede, roughout, leather), and adjustable blocks or flaps for rider security.
- Fit and Stability: Adjustable gullets, custom trees, or close-contact designs to ensure saddle stability and precise fit.
- Material Quality: Durable leather, synthetics, or suede-effect materials for grip and longevity.
- User and Expert Feedback: Rider reviews, saddle fitter insights, and sources like Your Horse, The Saddle Bank, and PangoVet.
- Discipline Suitability: Options for dressage, jumping, trail, barrel racing, and reining to meet diverse needs.
- Price vs. Value: Balancing performance with affordability for various budgets.
We consulted reputable sources, including Horse and Rider, Equus Magazine, and rider forums, to ensure our picks reflect 2025 equestrian trends and real-world performance.
Tips for Increasing Control This Season
- Consult a Saddle Fitter: A professional fitter ensures the saddle fits both horse and rider, maximizing stability and control. Schedule a fitting early in the season.
- Practice Proper Position: Maintain an ear-shoulder-hip-heel alignment to center your weight, enhancing balance and control.
- Use Grippy Accessories: Add suede seat savers or non-slip girths to boost grip and saddle stability.
- Ride Regularly: Ride 3–4 times weekly to build muscle memory and refine your control with the new saddle.
- Incorporate Core Training: Pilates or yoga strengthens your core, improving stability and control in the saddle.
- Check Saddle Fit Seasonally: Horses change shape with fitness or age, so verify fit every 6 months to maintain control.
- Use a Breast Collar or Crupper: These stabilize the saddle on hilly terrain, preventing slips that disrupt control.
- Adjust Stirrup Length: Shorter stirrups for jumping or longer for dressage optimize leg position and control.
- Monitor Horse Feedback: Ensure your horse moves freely without signs of discomfort (e.g., bucking, stiffness), as a happy horse enhances rider control.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is control important in a horse riding saddle?
Control ensures riders maintain balance, communicate precise aids, and stay secure during dynamic movements, improving performance and safety across disciplines.
2. How can I tell if my saddle is reducing my control?
Signs include slipping, difficulty maintaining posture, vague aids, or saddle instability. Check for a shallow seat, worn materials, or poor fit.
3. Are deep seats better for control than shallow seats?
Yes, deep seats like those in the Martin Saddlery Barrel Saddle or Schleese Obrigado provide more security, keeping riders centered during quick movements.
4. Can synthetic saddles offer as much control as leather ones?
Yes, synthetic saddles like the Wintec 500 or Thorowgood T4 use suede-effect materials and adjustable features to provide grip and stability comparable to leather.
5. How does saddle fit affect rider control?
A poorly fitted saddle shifts or pinches, disrupting balance and aids. A well-fitted saddle, as noted by The Saddle Bank, stabilizes the rider for precise control.
6. Are treeless saddles good for control?
Treeless saddles like the Freeform Icelandic enhance control through close contact and flexibility but may not suit heavy riders or high-withered horses.
7. How often should I check my saddle for control issues?
Check every 6 months or after changes in horse or rider shape. Regular fittings ensure the saddle maintains stability and grip.
8. Do expensive saddles provide better control?
High-end saddles like the Antares Signature or Voltaire Lexington offer superior materials and adjustability, but budget options like Acerugs provide solid control for casual riders.
9. Should I use a saddle fitter to improve control?
Yes, a fitter ensures the saddle fits both horse and rider, optimizing stability and grip for better control. Schedule a fitting at the season’s start.
Conclusion
Elevating your control this season starts with the right saddle, one that secures your position, enhances communication, and boosts confidence. The 18 best horse riding saddles listed from the budget-friendly Abetta Cordura to the luxurious Antares Signature cater to every discipline, horse type, and budget. With deep seats, grippy materials, and adjustable features, these saddles empower riders to tackle tight turns, complex movements, or rugged trails with precision.
By working with a saddle fitter, practicing proper position, and riding regularly, you can maximize control and transform your performance. Invest in a control-enhancing saddle today, and make this season your most confident yet. Happy riding!
