In ancient times, Greeks used the term dressage for war training. The French adopted the word to mean training, and equestrians continue to use the term dressage saddles to refer to the saddles a horse wears while training.

A large amount of warfare has been waged from horseback. Ancient Assyrians used to tie a cloth around the girth of a horse. This cloth has evolved to the modern dressage saddle.

In the Middle Ages, both soldiers and horses were often covered with heavy protective armor weighing as much as 150 pounds. Saddles had to evolve to bear this weight effectively. They became thicker, stronger, and shaped to help the soldier and the horse be able to negotiate the complex movements associated with riding in battle. Some of these changes included a high set pommel and cantle, to prevent the rider from being thrown off, and wool or horsehair padded seat, similar to modern dressage saddles.

In addition, dressage saddles have a deep seat, lengthier pommel, and a longer, straighter saddle flap that extends all the way behind the horse’s shoulder. This and long stirrups help the rider to sit up straight with his center of gravity in the proper place, able to ride with legs extended.

The Olympic Games have made dressage a competitive sport rather than a war training exercise. Teams of men and women all over the world compete using the traditional movements such as courbettes, pirouettes, and piaffes. It is a joy to practice and watch the graceful movements that horse and rider can create together.

Since they are shaped differently, dressage saddles are in a completely different category than hunting saddles. While originally intended to make soldiering and warfare safer and more efficient, it is now a world class sport with a rich history. If you are interested in dressage, make sure you have the right saddle. Find out more about Wintec dressage saddle or Albion dressage saddle.