Q: What’s the difference between a close contact and a normal jump or dressage saddle? Is one better than the other?

A: Close contact saddles are usually monoflap saddles, meaning that there’s just one layer of leather underneath your leg, rather than the usual two. These saddles, therefore, tend to have more streamlined panels than regular saddles wh remove the bulk between the rider’s legs and the horse’s sides. All of this means that the rider is much closer to your horse, hence the name of the saddle.

Monoflap saddles were originally designed for professional riders with the ability to balance themselves and maintain coordination with their horse without the support of a deeper-seated saddle and larger knee rolls. So, this type of saddle may not suit a rider who relies on the added security a traditional saddle provides.

As an added point to note, the streamlined panels mean there’s less area in contact with the horse’s back and subsequently less area for the pressure to be distributed through. This means that while all saddles should be regularly checked for fit, a monoflap saddle is less forgiving and must always fit perfectly to ensure it’s still comfortable. This may necessitate very regular saddle checks.

Choosing the right saddle for you and your horse is down to being aware of how you ride, your horse’s way of going and what you plan to do together. Chat to your saddle fitter to get some advice!