Saddle Seat Trainer

Saddle Seat is an event focused on making a horse look as animated as possible. Horses with a lot of “action”, or high stepping, compete in classes similar to equitation classes.

The rider’s goal is to give the impression of easy and finessed control of the horse while best showcasing their movements. While Saddle Seat horses are often of specific breeds that naturally have a lot of “action” such as Saddlebreds and Arabians, any horse capable of performing in the event is welcome.

Saddle Seat can be for anyone at any age. USEF breaks up the juniors into age groups including 10 and under, 11-13, 14-17. USEF also has a national championship medal class for junior Saddle Seat competitors! Adult riders can show in the national championship Adult Amateur Medal Final class for USEF.

Riders need to be of an advanced level before doing Saddle Seat, having mastered walk, trot, canter, gallop gaits and be familiar with the different riding style of Saddle Seat, including the tack.

While Equitation and Saddle Seat appear to be very similar events, Saddle Seat has the unique style of riding that starkly contrasts the soft hunter look. Both disciplines involve multiple riders showcasing their skills on the flat in front of judges. However, the tack, the horse’s movements, and the rider’s presentation in the arena are very different from Equitation.

Trainers that specialize in Saddle Seat need to not only have years of experience and achievements in the sport, but also need to have horses trained for the event as well. The unique style cannot be applied to every horse so it is important to make sure that your trainer is equipped with horses trained for this style.