The saddle for the horse depends on the style of riding. Commonly differentiated into two main styles; Western and English, each with various shapes, styles and purposes.

The western saddle was used by cowboys. It has a grip on the pommel called a ‘horn’, and the stirrups are made from leather.

Compared to English saddles, Western saddles are heavy and solid. They also have an ornamental aspect.

Designed specifically for a cowboys’ lifestyle with long days in the saddle, the seat is wide and deep with simple features.

Compared to the British saddle it is more stable, and the horn enables the rider to balance if the horse moves suddenly. It is often used for horse-riding in the travel industry as even beginners can ride with ease.

前橋（ぜんきょう）＝ pommel　　騎座（きざ）＝seat　　後橋（こうきょう）＝cantle　　鞍尾（あんび）＝panel　　鞍縟（あんじょく）＝saddlecloth　　あおり革＝saddle flap　　小あおり＝skirt　　鐙革（あぶみがわ）＝stirrup leather　　鐙（あぶみ）＝stirrup iron　　 腹帯託革（はらおびたっかく）＝girth point

There are three main types of English saddles; a dressage saddle for flatwork, a jumping saddle for showjumping and a midway style between the two called an ‘all purpose’ saddle for eventing.

The dressage saddle has a deep seat and a high cantle, designed for riders to sit comfortably.

This saddle is made for riders to keep stability, and jumping with a dressage saddle will cause the high cantle to hit the riders backside posing the risk of a fall in full flight.

The showjumping saddle is designed for maintaining the two point seat more comfortable for riders, featuring short, forward saddle flaps.

Also, the cantle and seat are relatively flat and both the pommel and cantle are low so as not to hinder the jumping position.

Horse-riding clubs in Japan have horse tack available for use, so it’s not essential to buy a saddle when you start out. You can think about purchasing a saddle if you continue riding for a couple of years.

It is absolutely essential to find a saddle which is compatible with the horse and rider, and riding in a saddle to suit you is a completely different feeling.

Saddles are very expensive, so be careful when buying one. Some brands enable you to trial the saddle before purchase.

Once you’ve purchased a saddle, remember to take good care of it. Saddles are leather products and if left uncared for, are more susceptible to mould and decay.

【Saddle Care】

①First, wipe the saddle clean.

Using a brush, remove the dirt from the saddle surfaces and wipe clean with a well wrung towel.

Pay particular attention to the saddle seat and flaps as they may have traces of sweat, and can collect dirt easily.

② With a damp sponge apply saddle soap to the leather in a circular motion to remove any fine dirt particles.

③Rub the surface with a dry towel.

④Leave it to dry.

⑤ Moisturize the saddle with leather oil.

For best results, apply leather milk conditioner to the outside and a liquid leather oil to the underside of the saddle.

The stirrup leathers and girth points can stretch easily, so please be careful to apply only a small amount to these areas.

⑥Remove any excess oil by lightly wiping the saddle surfaces with a dry towel.

Leave to dry in the shade.

Caring for your saddle will extend its lifespan.

It is best to clean your saddle at least once a month.

額革（ひたいがわ）= browband　　項革（うなじかわ）=head piece　　鼻革（はながわ）= noseband　　頬革（ほほがわ）= cheek piece　　咽革（のどかわ）=throatlash　　ハミ=bit　　手綱（たづな）=reins

Through the reins the rider can communicate their intention and control the horse with the mouth.

In essence, the bit operates as the handles and brake.

The mouthpiece part of the bit rests on the ‘bars’ of the horse’s mouth.

There are also a variety of shaped bits, providing different controls and pressure, so each bit should be fitted for the individual horse.

Jodhpurs are the pants used for horse-riders. They are made from lightweight, stretch material and fit to the body perfectly.

They provide close contact with the horse, and assist the rider in giving effective aids.

They are very durable and can withstand the rubbing on the calves and thighs.

Prices vary with cheaper pairs starting around 10, 000 yen with expensive pairs costing around 30, 000 yen. They are an essential item for the rider wardrobe.

Of course you can select your size, but they also come in a variety of colours and designs.

Beige is popular, like the one pictured, but there are also plaid and jean-type styles available.

However, there are designated colours for competition.

On the horse your line of sight is taller so it is important to wear a helmet at all times.

You will be able to rent helmets at the riding club, but it is better to purchase your own.

They are priced at around 10, 000 - 20, 000 yen.

If the helmet is too small, over time it will make your head sore.

At the same time, a helmet which is too big is dangerous, so it is best to check the helmet before and after riding.

When selecting a helmet, the size is very important and there are various colours and styles available.

In horse riding, there are two general styles; long boots and short boots with chaps.

It is also very important to select the right boots when horse riding.

If the boots do not fit properly, they can impair the rider and their aids to the horse.

’Long boots’, also called ‘jockey boots’ cover the foot to just below the knee.

The ankle is fixed and it may be difficult to walk in them until the are worn in.

Long boots are very effective for riding. They also vary in material including leather, synthetic leather and rubber.

Leather boots are expensive, but they stand the test of time and mould to the body.

Short boots are also called jodhpur boots or chopper boots.

Chaps are worn over the jodhpurs, covering the calves.

Chaps are soft, elastic and are easy to move in.

Both styles come in a variety of designs, but it is best to select a pair for their practicality rather than the style. Try a variety of boots and never compromise for quality of fit.

The most suitable boots, of course those which are custom made.

Measurements are precise and the slight differences in size of the left and right feet are evaluated.

The decision to buy long boots or short boots is to the individual, however, in some competitions, short boots and chaps are not suitable. It is best to start in short boots and chaps then change to long boots later.