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Sitting Pretty
Riding Side Saddle
Ever fancied showing off your horse side saddle, but wondered how to get started and if in fact your horse would be suitable for side saddle? Top show rider and producer Lynn Russell has been riding side saddle for over 20 years and has competed side-saddle at some of the UK’s most profile shows including Royal Windsor, Hickstead and HOYS, winning numerous titles. Lynn answers some common questions on riding side-saddle and suggests how to get you and your horse going side-saddle.
How do I get started?
Any type of horse can do side-saddle, as long as it has a good front and is comfortable. The better schooled a horse is astride, the easier it will be to ride side saddle. I don’t put a side-saddle on a horse until it has the strength in its back to carry one (side saddles weigh far more than an astride saddle). Ideally you would look for a horse with a little longer back, as if the horse is very short coupled, there is little room for the saddle and under no circumstances should you ever attempt side-saddle on a known rearer – if the horse comes over with you on board, you could end up trapped in-between the pommels. Many astride riders turn to side saddle in their later years or if, because of a disability, they find side saddling a more comfortable option. Once you get yourself going in the art of side saddle, it may the only way to go for you. In the show ring, a good looking horse with good conformation will have a head start, but if your horse goes nicely astride and is a well mannered comfortable ride, you could still find yourself near the top of the line-up.
Where do I get a side-saddle from?
Although there are a few ’modern’ side saddles being made now, the majority are precious antiques dating back many decades ago. The Side-Saddle Association (Tel: 01495 7722 12 or www.sidesaddleassociation.co.uk ) runs adverts in their newsletter and also has a list of saddlers that may have saddles for sale from time to time. They will also be able to give you details of individuals who hire out side-saddles, which is a cheaper way to discover whether you and your horse are both bitten by the side saddle bug! You can expect to pay anything from £300 up to £2,500 for a saddle, so hiring enables everyone to have a go!
Where can I get lessons?
Again, The Side-Saddle Association has a list of recommended side-saddle instructors in your area, along with details of their experience, facilities and also if they have experienced side-saddle horses for lessons – which might be another way to discover if you want to pursue this elegant way of riding before splashing out on all the equipment and clothing.
Do I have to buy a habit and side-saddle?
Firstly, for those of you wondering what a ‘habit’ is, it’s a jacket and a skirt known as an ‘apron’ that wraps around the rider when sat on board, to give the impression of a skirt. Initially you won’t have to splash out on either of these and even if you do decide you want to get more involved, just as you can hire side-saddles, you can hire habits as well. You can buy modern habits off the peg or second hand and these again can be quite pricey, but if you search around, you may be lucky to pick up a bargain.
What tips do you have when putting the saddle on my horse for the first time?
If you are inexperienced, make sure you get some experienced help! Even putting the saddle on the horse must be done correctly, before you even think about hoping on board, so ensure that you have someone around with a knowledgable eye. Put the side saddle on and ensure it’s correctly fitted and turn the horse around in both directions to ensure he is happy with the ‘balance’ strap, which is a strap that goes around the horses side - which is not featured on your astride saddle and therefore might come as a surprise to him! Once your horse is OK with the balance strap and you are in a safe enclosed area, such as a sand school, then its time to get on board, but again, novices make sure you get some expert help.
How long should I ride for the first time?
Just start off with a few minutes at a time, perhaps after you have ridden astride so the horse isn’t too fresh and his muscles have warmed up. As you will be using new, previously undiscovered muscles, make sure you build up slowly and never for too long, as it’s very tiring for both your horse and you!
Do you have any tips for competing in the show ring?
Go and watch as many classes as you can, so you know what is expected of you. The Side-Saddle Association has lots of different classes that you can do side-saddle, from jumping and dressage through to showing. Not all of them require a show type horse either, so the appeal of side saddle really is universal.
What is a definite no no?
Sitting around for ages on his back at the show ground - this is my real pet hate. Don’t sit around on him chatting away with friends, make sure you jump off and rest his back as much as you can. The same applies for astride riders – it's not fair to expect your horse to carry a dead weight on his back for hours, standing around in the heat of the day.
How do I care for the saddle, is it OK to use saddle soap and water?
A lot of side saddles have a doe skin seat, so make sure you don’t use saddle soap on this area and never hang the saddle over a door or wall, as the balance is different in the side saddle and one slight knock can result in the saddle ending up on floor damaged or at worse with a broken tree. I use my own Lynn Russell Leather Cleaners and Conditioners to keep the saddles in the best condition. Cleaning also provides a good opportunity to check for any wear or tear on straps.
What should I expect in a side-saddle class?
As, I mentioned before, there are many different classes that you can enter side saddle, however as a general rule turn-out is very important in actual side-saddle classes, as is a correctly fitting side saddle and of course a horse with manners is desirable. For Ladies Hunter Classes, the judge will generally ride and you will be expected to walk, trot and canter on both reins with a gallop to finish, however other classes do exist and some do request an individual show, so its always worth checking the rule book to ensure that both you and your horse are prepared. The saddle must fit both you and your horse correctly. Again, watching experienced side-saddle riders will really help you in the art of turnout and presentation, whilst a qualified saddler that can help you keep your antique side saddle in the best possible condition is not only invaluable to your success in the ring, but also important for your horse’s well being and your safety.
My advice is to read as many books as you can and join The Side-Saddle Association. Check out my range of fantastic grooming products to ensure that your horse looks immaculate and stain free!
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