Measuring a rider for a side saddle is different than for an astride saddle. Riding a saddle that is too large may position you where you don't have the leverage for a secure seat. Riding in one that is too small for you will be uncomfortable for both you and the horse.

The following instuctions should help you find the correct seat size. Western seats are generally wider than english seats, but the measurements are taken the same way.

Sit with your back close to a wall, and the distance from the wall (A) to the back of the knee (B), measured with a stiff rule, can be used to determine the correct saddle size (length).

The lady's measurement (A-B) should be about one half to one inch shorter than the saddle (A-B). Generally, a lady can ride a larger saddle easier than a smaller saddle.

You may find a shorterWestern side saddle seat more comfortable. Just as astride Western and English saddles may fit you differently, so may side saddles.

In the US, side saddles are measured from the front of the upright pommel to the rear of the cantle. This corresponds to the rider's femur length.

Fitting a side saddle to your horse.

If you are shopping in England for an english side saddle, the meausrement listed is typically from the cutback of the saddle to the rear of the cantle. This is typically 4 inches shorter than US measurements.

The British method of meaurement is an approximation of the size saddle you need as the cutback may be deeper or shallower on an individual saddle. If buying overseas, ask the seller to measure the saddle from the front of the upright head to the rear of the seat.

The average sidesaddle measures 20 - 22" long from point A to point B. The neck of the saddle (C-D) is usually 8-9". The seat width (E-F) is usually 12-13".