Does saddle color matter when....?

Question

I want to buy a black all purpose saddle, but I'm not sure if black is approved of in the hunt field.

My Hunt Club isn't very strict of rules, but is it frowned upon usually?

Answer 1

yea. i had to buy a whole new saddle when i started doing hunter jumper. it sux

Answer 2

Usually people use a reddish kind of saddle for hunter jumper. its like a burgandy color.  

Answer 3

i wouldn't get the black saddle, even if your club isnt strict if you ever go to anouther you dont want to have to get a whole new saddle just for that.

Answer 4

Do you mean Hunt Club like riding to hounds or the Hunter ring?

Generally Hunt clubs have a certain standard of turn out that you must adhere to.

As far as the Hunter ring, no black would not be the best choice.

Answer 5

Yeah not for hunter, it isn't illegal, but definitely frowned upon. Don't go for it. That chestnut colour such as a Childeric saddle is much better and looks amazing on any horse. I don't know why it matters so much, but it does, so i'd just go with what's smiled upon. :)

Answer 6

For hunting, you'll definitely want a close contact saddle, not an all-purpose. A close contact will help you handle any jumps you encounter far better than an all-purpose, which will keep your leg too straight to maintain a proper galloping or jumping position.

Check with your Hunt Club on rules about color. Turn out can be fairly strict. Even if they allow black, brown is still far more common in the field and in the show ring. And if you were ever to switch clubs, move, or start showing, the brown would be a better investment as it would be more appropriate in a variety of situations.