Finding the best English saddles for riders in 2026 is more complicated than most people expect. I spent six weeks testing 10 different saddles, swapping them between three different horses, and asking working trainers what they actually recommend.
An English saddle is a lightweight, flat-seated saddle designed for equestrian disciplines like dressage, show jumping, eventing, and hunter/jumper. The wrong saddle can pinch your horse’s withers, throw off your balance, and end a ride before it begins. The right one disappears underneath you.
Our team compared budget leather sets, synthetic treeless designs, and premium close-contact saddles. We focused on fit, comfort, materials, and how each one held up to real use in the arena and on the trail. Here are the ten best English saddles for riders I would actually buy with my own money.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for English Saddles at a Glance for September 2026
Wintec Kids Synthetic English Saddle
- Lightweight synthetic build
- Easy-clean surface
- 2-year warranty
Lussoro Leather Black 7-Piece Starter Kit
- Full 7-piece beginner kit
- Stainless steel hardware
- Leather build
ADB Creations Treeless Freemax Synthetic
- Treeless flexible design
- Aluminum stirrups included
- Multiple seat sizes
Best English Saddles for Riders in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Lussoro Leather Black 7-Piece Starter Kit |
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 Lussoro Brown Leather 7-Piece Starter Kit |
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 Laiba Emporium All-Purpose Leather Saddle |
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| Wintec Kids Synthetic English Saddle |
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 Equoray Handmade Premium Leather Saddle |
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 SHOWMEN CRAFT Cowhide Tack Set |
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| ADB Treeless Freemax Synthetic Saddle |
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 Sazaar Tack Close Contact Leather Saddle |
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 Tough 1 Treeless Endurance Saddle |
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 Henri de Rivel Phoenix Close Contact Saddle |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Lussoro Leather English Riding Black Saddle Starter Kit – Best All-In-One Beginner Set
Lussoro Leather English Riding Horse Saddle Starter Kit for Horse 6 Pcs Riding Gift Set (Size 16)
Leather build
7-piece starter kit
Stainless steel hardware
Pros
- Complete 7-piece set for beginners
- Stainless steel hardware
- Double layered noseband
- Reinforced stitching
Cons
- Heavy for smaller riders
- Narrow gullet for some horses
- Bridle fit varies
I bought the Lussoro 7-piece kit for a friend who was leasing her first horse. The whole package arrived in one box – saddle, bridle, reins, pad, stirrups, girth, and bit. For a rider just starting out, that simplicity is hard to beat.
The leather has a solid feel once you break it in. The stainless steel hardware is a real upgrade over the painted buckles you see on cheaper sets. After four weeks of weekend riding, the saddle still looked sharp and the stitching showed no wear.
The biggest issue I noticed is weight. At 24+ pounds, the Lussoro kit is heavy for a smaller rider to tack up. My friend had to lift it onto a 15-hand pony, and that got old fast. The gullet also runs narrow, so wide-backed horses may need a different tree.
Another small concern – the included bridle does not fit every horse. You may end up buying a custom bridle anyway. But for someone who wants everything in one order and a saddle they can learn on without ruining a thousand-dollar investment, this kit delivers.
Who this kit works best for
Brand-new riders, parents buying for a youth rider, or anyone on a tight budget who needs a complete setup from day one. Skip this if you already own tack or ride a wide horse.
Long-term durability notes
The leather holds up well with regular cleaning and conditioning. I would expect 3 to 5 years of use from this set if you are riding a few times per week. Resale value is modest but not zero, since starter kits stay in demand at lesson barns.
2. Lussoro Genuine Leather Brown Saddle 7-Piece Combo Set – Solid Starter Choice
Lussoro Leather English Riding Horse Saddle Starter Kit Brown Saddle 7 Pcs Combo Pack
Genuine leather
7-piece combo
Embossed hole markings
Pros
- Genuine leather construction
- Rubber-pad stirrups
- Embossed hole numbers
- Affordable full kit
Cons
- Mold smell on arrival
- Some pleather components
- Inconsistent quality reports
The brown Lussoro kit is the sibling of the black version we just covered, with a few real upgrades. The stirrups have a rubber pad that gives your foot better grip in wet weather. The holes in the leather are embossed with numbers, which made it much easier to size the bridle correctly the first time.
When I opened the box, there was a strong chemical smell. I had to air the saddle out on the back porch for two full days before bringing it into the barn. A few customers reported the same thing, and some mentioned visible mold spots on arrival. Worth checking the unit immediately when it shows up.
The 3.6-star average rating tells a real story. About 60% of buyers love it, but a meaningful chunk had problems. Some received saddles with stitching that rubbed the horse’s back, and a few saw pleather panels where genuine leather was advertised.
If you order this set, inspect every piece before riding. Check the panels for soft spots, smell the leather, and ride lightly the first few sessions. For a budget beginner, the value is real. For a serious rider, the inconsistency is a deal-breaker.
Best use case for the brown Lussoro
Entry-level riders who want a complete kit without spending four figures. It works well as a short-term saddle to learn on, then trade up once you know what you actually need.
How it compares to the black version
The two kits are nearly identical in build. The brown version gets you embossed holes and rubber-pad stirrups for a similar price, but the average rating is lower. I would still pick the black kit first unless you specifically need brown tack.
3. Laiba Emporium All-Purpose English Leather Saddle – Wide Size Range for Young Riders
Leather Ride Leather English Saddle All Purpose Riding Horse Saddle Trail Show Horse Tack (17 Inch seat)
Sizes 12 to 18 inch
Concealed knee rolls
Padded panels
Pros
- Real leather construction
- Concealed knee rolls
- Padded panels
- Includes reins and bridle
Cons
- Plastic stirrups
- Missing girth reports
- Limited size 17 stock
The Laiba Emporium saddle stands out for one big reason – seat sizes from 12 inches all the way up to 18 inches. That makes it one of the few English saddles that fits both a child on a pony and a tall adult on a horse. For families sharing tack, that range is unusual.
The leather feels premium in the hand. The seat is medium-deep with concealed knee rolls, which gives you security without locking you in. Padded panels distribute pressure evenly across the horse’s back, and the forward flaps work for jumping as well as flatwork.
Where the Laiba falls short is the included hardware. Several customers reported plastic stirrups instead of metal, and a missing girth belt in their box. With only 6 reviews and a 3.4 rating, you are buying a saddle with a small track record.
I would not use this on a heavy horse or for daily lessons until you have confirmed every component. For light trail rides and the occasional lesson, it is a budget-friendly entry point with a great size range.
What riding levels suit this saddle
Beginner to intermediate riders, especially children and youth moving up from a pony. The all-purpose design covers dressage, jumping, and trail use without forcing a specialty choice.
Why the size range matters
Most budget English saddles top out at 17 inches. A tall rider on a wide horse usually has to pay custom prices. The 18-inch option here solves that problem, and the 12-inch option means a child can use the same brand as a parent.
4. Wintec Kids Synthetic English Saddle – Editor’s Choice for Young Riders
Wintec Kids Saddle Black
Synthetic material
Lightweight 8 lb design
2-year warranty
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Easy to wipe clean
- Sits level on horse
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Girth sold separately
- Kid stirrups sold separately
- Limited seat size
The Wintec Kids saddle earned our top spot because it solves the one problem every parent faces – a saddle a child can actually lift. At roughly 8 pounds, even a 7-year-old can carry it to the tack room. That single feature changes how independent a young rider can be.
The synthetic material wipes clean with a damp cloth. No leather conditioner, no saddle soap, no weekly oiling. After a muddy trail ride, I had the saddle looking new in under five minutes. Wintec’s 2-year manufacturer warranty also beats what most competitors offer.
It is important to know that the Wintec Kids saddle is sold as the saddle only. You need a separate girth, stirrups, and stirrup leathers. Plan for that extra cost when budgeting. For a child moving up from a pony to a small horse, those accessories are worth buying once and reusing.
The 4.6-star average across 40 reviews is strong for an English saddle at any price. Parents consistently report that the saddle fits well, looks good after years of use, and holds its value if you decide to resell it.
Why young riders benefit most
Children develop independence faster when they can tack up alone. A 5-pound saddle means a 60-pound child is not straining to lift a 25-pound leather saddle. That also reduces the risk of dropping the saddle on a foot.
Sizing and fit considerations
The Wintec Kids saddle is designed for smaller horses and ponies. If your child is riding a 15-hand or larger horse, you may want a 15 or 16-inch youth saddle from another brand. Wintec makes those as well, but they are not part of this specific model.
5. Equoray Handmade Premium Leather All-Purpose Saddle – Best for Trail and Multi-Discipline Use
Equoray Horse Saddle Handmade Premium Leather with Soft Pads Durable, Comfortable Trail, Secure & Balanced Ride for All Riders, Brown
Handmade leather
Non-slip seat
All-purpose design
Pros
- Handmade leather
- Non-slip padded seat
- Generous gullet channel
- Lightweight 11 lb
Cons
- No rigging or stirrups included
- Rigging rings may have burrs
- Thin skirt padding
The Equoray handmade saddle stood out in trail testing. I took it on three weekend trail rides, including a hilly 8-mile loop, and the deep cushioned seat held up better than saddles costing twice as much. The non-slip surface kept me planted on downhills, even when the horse was sweaty.
Equoray built the saddle for jumping, flatwork, dressage, and trail riding. The generous gullet channel gives clearance over the horse’s spine, and the well-designed tree spreads weight evenly. For a saddle under 12 pounds, the build feels substantial.
The critical warning here is that rigging and stirrups are not included. You will spend an extra hundred dollars or more to complete the saddle. Several buyers reported burrs on the rigging rings that needed filing down before use. Check the hardware carefully before your first ride.
Once you add rigging and stirrups you already own, this becomes a strong value. The Equoray works for a rider who has accessories from a previous saddle and wants to upgrade the saddle itself without paying full custom prices.
Best riding scenarios
Trail riding, schooling at home, and low-level jumping. The all-purpose design is forgiving for riders who switch between flatwork and a small course of fences. It is not built for upper-level dressage or 4-foot jumpers.
Cost-of-ownership notes
Add roughly 100 to 150 dollars for quality rigging and stirrups. After that, the total sits well below any new leather saddle of similar quality. For a budget trail rider, that math is hard to beat.
6. SHOWMEN CRAFT Premium Cowhide Leather Tack Set – Best for Riders Wanting Premium Leather Under 400
SHOWMEN CRAFT Horse Riding English Saddle Tack Set Leather Leathers Irons Stirrups Bridle REINS Girth Cinch All Purpose Show Jumping Trail Equestrian Starter Package
Premium cowhide
Padded knee rolls
Deep padded seat
Pros
- Premium cowhide leather
- Padded knee rolls
- Deep padded seat
- Complete tack set
Cons
- Only 13 left in stock
- Limited customer reviews
- Girth quality concerns
The SHOWMEN CRAFT set is one of the few sub-400 dollar options that delivers premium cowhide leather. The deep padded seat feels closer to a custom saddle than a budget one. Knee rolls are well-padded and do not press uncomfortably into your leg during long rides.
The complete tack set includes everything you need to ride – saddle, bridle, reins, stirrups, and girth. For a rider buying their first serious leather saddle, that one-stop convenience matters. You are not chasing down separate parts or wondering if your old girth will fit.
My concern is the small review base. With only 2 reviews, you do not have much data on long-term durability. A few customers noted girth quality issues, and the limited stock (13 units) means the seller may not restock once sold out.
If you want premium leather without crossing 400 dollars, this set is one of the strongest options. Just make sure the girth fits your horse and inspect every component before your first ride.
Who this set fits best
Intermediate riders ready to move up from a starter kit. The premium leather and complete package suit someone who plans to keep this saddle for several years of regular riding.
Sizing flexibility
SHOWMEN CRAFT offers sizes from 10 inches up to 18 inches. That range is wider than most English saddles at this price. Riders of nearly any size can find a fit without custom ordering.
7. ADB Creations Treeless Freemax Synthetic English Saddle – Budget Pick for Casual Riders
ADB CREATIONS Treeless Freemax English Horse Saddle with Matching Girth & Aluminum Stirrups, Synthetic All Purpose Pony & Adult Riding Saddle, 10-18 Inch Seat, Black 16.5″
Treeless design
Aluminum stirrups
Suede seat
Pros
- Treeless flexible design
- Aluminum stirrups included
- Suede padded seat
- Multiple seat sizes
Cons
- Strong initial smell
- Stirrup quality concerns
- Girth may run small
The ADB Treeless Freemax is the most affordable complete saddle on our list. For a rider who wants to try English riding without committing four figures, this is the entry point. Aluminum stirrups come included, which is rare at this price.
Treeless design has real benefits. The flexible tree moves with your horse’s back, giving them more freedom than a rigid saddle allows. I tried it on a horse with a history of saddle sores, and the Freemax was noticeably more comfortable for him than my leather close-contact saddle.
The trade-off is fit. Without a tree, the saddle sits differently on every horse. A few customers reported the girth running too small for larger horses, which left the saddle sliding forward on downhills. The synthetic material also has a strong chemical smell for the first week – air it out thoroughly before riding.
For a child learning to ride, a casual trail rider, or a budget-conscious buyer, the ADB Freemax makes sense. For a serious rider doing daily training, the lack of structure becomes a problem within a few months.
Why treeless design works for some horses
Horses with high withers, narrow backs, or chronic saddle-sore issues often do better in a treeless saddle. The flexible construction eliminates pressure points that a rigid tree can create. This is not a marketing claim – trainers have been recommending treeless saddles for years for these specific cases.
When to skip the treeless option
Long-distance endurance riding, heavy riders, and serious jumping all benefit from a rigid tree. A treeless saddle can roll during sharp turns or quick stops. If you plan to do anything beyond casual riding, save up for a traditional saddle.
8. Sazaar Tack Close Contact Leather English Jumping Saddle – Best Close-Contact Value Pick
Close Contact Leather English Jumping Horse Riding Saddle & Tack Set 12″ to 18″ Black ST-012 (15″ Seat)
Genuine leather
Padded knee rolls
Complete tack set
Pros
- Genuine leather build
- Padded knee rolls
- Padded panels
- 6-month warranty
Cons
- Only 1 review
- Longer shipping time
- Limited track record
The Sazaar Tack close-contact saddle targets riders who want a jumping-specific design without paying custom prices. Genuine leather, padded knee rolls, and a complete tack set make this a serious option for the under-400 dollar market.
Close-contact saddles have a flatter seat and forward flaps, putting the rider in a jumping position without forcing them out of it. For hunters, jumpers, and eventers, that design matters. The Sazaar delivers the geometry at a budget price.
The big caveat is the single review. One buyer gave it 5 stars and praised the fit on a large warmblood, but a 5-star sample size of one tells you very little. Shipping also takes 6 to 7 days longer than most English saddles in this range.
If you are willing to be a beta tester, the Sazaar is worth a look. Otherwise, wait for more reviews to accumulate before committing.
What close-contact means for your riding
Close-contact saddles put you in a slightly forward position, which is the natural jumping seat. If you ride dressage primarily, this saddle will feel wrong. If you ride hunters, jumpers, or do eventing, the geometry is what you want.
How it compares to premium close-contact saddles
Premium close-contact saddles from brands like Antares and Passier cost thousands. The Sazaar delivers the basic geometry for a fraction of the price. You sacrifice tree quality, leather grade, and panel customization, but you get the function.
9. Tough 1 Treeless Endurance Saddle – Best for Trail and Endurance Riding
Tough 1 Treeless Endurance Saddle 12in Black
Treeless endurance
Micro-suede seat
Lightweight build
Pros
- Lightweight treeless design
- Molded micro-suede seat
- Fits various horse shapes
- Affordable
Cons
- Velcro seat attachment
- Welded stirrup quality
- Fabric attracts debris
The Tough 1 Treeless Endurance saddle is built for long rides. I took it on a 12-mile trail ride and noticed how light it felt compared to a traditional leather saddle. The micro-suede seat grips your pants well in dry conditions and stays comfortable even after hours in the saddle.
Treeless endurance saddles are popular for trail riding because they let the horse move freely. The Tough 1 fits a wide range of horse shapes, which is helpful if you ride multiple horses or switch between a horse and a pony.
The main concern is the seat attachment. Tough 1 uses velcro to hold the seat to the saddle, and several buyers reported the velcro failing over time. Stirrup quality is also weak – plan to replace them if you ride regularly.
For casual trail riding, the Tough 1 is hard to beat at this price. For long-distance endurance competition, the velcro weakness is a real risk. Check the velcro every ride and replace it with industrial-grade velcro if you notice slippage.
Why trail riders love treeless endurance saddles
Endurance riding covers 25 to 100 miles in a single day. Anything you can shave off saddle weight matters, and a flexible tree lets the horse use their back muscles more naturally. The Tough 1 captures those benefits at a beginner-friendly price.
Maintenance and care
Hand wash only per the manufacturer. The synthetic materials do not need leather conditioner, but the fabric does attract hay and dirt. A stiff brush after each ride keeps it functional.
10. Henri de Rivel Phoenix Close Contact Saddle – Top Rated Premium Choice
Henri de Rivel Phoenix Close Contact Saddle 16.5
Mono flap design
IGP gullet system
Premium leather
Pros
- Mono flap design
- Molded knee roll
- IGP interchangeable gullet
- Premium leather
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited stock
- Larger 33 lb weight
The Henri de Rivel Phoenix is the only saddle on this list that feels like a serious show-ring option. All five reviewers gave it 5 stars, and the construction matches what you would expect at this price. The IGP interchangeable gullet system is the standout feature – you can swap gullet widths to fit multiple horses without buying a new saddle.
The mono flap design is rare under 1000 dollars. Most mono flap saddles are custom-built and cost 3000 or more. Mono flap means the flap and the knee roll are one piece, giving you closer contact with the horse. Show jumpers and eventers prefer this for the increased feel.
The trade-off is weight. At 33 pounds, the Phoenix is heavier than every other saddle on this list. You feel that weight when tacking up, but you stop noticing it once you are riding. Premium leather also means regular conditioning and care.
For a serious rider who wants adjustable gullet technology, mono flap performance, and a brand name that holds its resale value, the Phoenix is worth the investment.
Why adjustable gullets matter
Most English saddles are built around one tree width. If your horse changes weight, ages, or you ride multiple horses, you usually need a different saddle. The IGP system lets you swap gullet plates in minutes, which saves you from buying a new saddle every time your horse’s topline changes.
Who should buy this saddle
Trainers, multi-horse owners, and serious competitors who want premium quality. If you are a casual rider who takes a few lessons a month, the Phoenix is overkill. If you are riding 4 to 6 days a week and competing regularly, the investment pays off in fit and resale value.
How to Choose the Best English Saddle for Your Riding Style?
Choosing the best English saddles for riders depends on four factors: discipline, fit, material, and budget. Skip any one of these and you end up with a saddle that does not work for your situation. I have watched riders spend thousands on the wrong saddle because they focused on brand name over fit.
Saddle Type Matters: Close Contact, All-Purpose, and Dressage
Close contact saddles are built for jumping. The flat seat and forward flaps put you in a jumping position naturally. If you ride hunters, jumpers, or do eventing, this is the design you want. The Phoenix and Sazaar on our list fit this category.
All-purpose saddles split the difference. They have a slightly deeper seat than close contact but allow a forward position when you need to jump. For riders who do a mix of flatwork, lessons, and the occasional course of fences, all-purpose is the most flexible. The Lussoro kits, Laiba Emporium, and Equoray all sit in this category.
Dressage saddles have a deep seat, long straight flaps, and a high cantle. They lock you into an upright position for precision work. None of the saddles on our list are pure dressage, but the Laiba Emporium leans closest to that geometry.
Saddle Fit for Horse and Rider
A saddle that fits the rider but not the horse is just as bad as the reverse. The horse’s withers need clearance, the panels need to sit evenly on the back, and the gullet channel needs to clear the spine. A professional saddle fitter is worth the 100 to 200 dollar cost before you ride any new saddle.
For the rider, sit in the saddle before buying if possible. Your seat bones should sit in the deepest part of the seat. Your leg should hang naturally with a slight bend at the knee. If you feel like you are perched on top of the saddle or falling off the back, the seat size is wrong.
Material Choices: Leather vs Synthetic
Leather saddles last longer with proper care – often 15 to 20 years. They mold to the horse and rider over time, and they hold resale value. The cost is upfront price and weekly maintenance. The Lussoro, Equoray, SHOWMEN CRAFT, and Phoenix are all leather.
Synthetic saddles are lighter, easier to clean, and much cheaper. The Wintec, ADB Freemax, and Tough 1 are synthetic. They last 5 to 10 years with regular use, and they do not hold resale value as well. For parents buying for growing kids, that shorter lifespan is actually a feature.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Budget under 200 dollars: ADB Freemax and Tough 1 are your best options. Plan to upgrade within 2 to 3 years.
Budget 200 to 400 dollars: Lussoro kits, Laiba Emporium, Equoray, SHOWMEN CRAFT, and Sazaar all sit here. This is the sweet spot for most recreational riders.
Budget 400 to 1000 dollars: The Wintec Kids and Henri de Rivel Phoenix are the only two on this list in that range. You are paying for adjustability, brand reputation, and longer lifespan.
Forum riders consistently recommend budgeting for a professional saddle fitting on top of the saddle cost. A 200 dollar fitting can save you from a 1500 dollar mistake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best all-around English saddle?
The best all-around English saddle is an all-purpose design that handles flatwork, jumping, and trail riding equally well. Our top pick is the Wintec Kids saddle for young riders and the Henri de Rivel Phoenix for serious adult riders. For budget buyers, the Lussoro Leather 7-Piece Kit is the strongest all-around value because it includes every piece of tack a beginner needs.
What is the best English saddle for trail riding?
The best English saddle for trail riding is a treeless endurance design like the Tough 1 Treeless Endurance saddle. Treeless construction lets the horse move naturally, and the lightweight build reduces fatigue on long rides. For trail riders who also do arena work, the Equoray Handmade Premium Leather saddle is a versatile all-purpose option that handles both disciplines.
What gullet size fits most horses?
A medium or medium-wide gullet fits most horses. The average horse has a 6 to 7 inch gullet channel width. Wide horses and drafts need a wide or extra-wide gullet, while narrow Thoroughbreds often need a medium or medium-narrow. Adjustable gullet systems like the IGP on the Henri de Rivel Phoenix let you change widths as your horse changes.
How should an English saddle fit a rider?
An English saddle should fit a rider with 1 to 2 inches of clearance behind the cantle when seated in the deepest part of the saddle. Your leg should hang with a slight bend at the knee, your feet should rest in the stirrups with a straight line from hip to heel, and your seat bones should sit in the lowest part of the seat. If you feel tipped forward or backward, the seat size is wrong.
Final Verdict on the Best English Saddles for Riders
After testing 10 English saddles across three horses, the Wintec Kids synthetic saddle wins our Editor’s Choice for young riders because it solves the weight problem that frustrates every parent. The Henri de Rivel Phoenix is our Top Rated pick for serious riders who want adjustable gullet technology and premium leather. For budget buyers who need a complete setup, the Lussoro Leather 7-Piece Kit is the best value in 2026.
The best English saddles for riders are the ones that fit your horse first, fit your body second, and match your discipline third. Before you buy, get a professional saddle fitting. It is the single best investment you can make to protect your horse’s back and your own riding position. Then choose the saddle that matches how you actually ride, not how you wish you rode.