How much real difference is there between an All Purpose saddle and a Jumping saddle?

Question

Would a jumping saddle and a close contact saddle be the same thing. Thanks!

Answer 1

ur jumping saddle is MADE for jumping  and the other one is for w/e but pll can tell when u have money bc of the saddle u buy

Answer 2

If you don't want to do serious jumping like real big stuff you don't need a proper jumping saddle, a close contact saddle is a type of jumping saddle.

All purpose saddles are fine i have jumped up to 1.10m in my trusty all purpose at big competitions as well

All purpose saddles would probably be more comfortable for you if you are not a serious jumping competitor and you just want to jump a bit

Answer 3

A jumping saddle tends to have a more forward flap.  Between all the types of saddles, I really don't think there's much difference.  I've heard that the all-purpose saddle isn't as good for jumping and it doesn't give you the right leg position.  A close contact saddle would be a lot like a jumping saddle, but it's for flatting and jumping... when I think of jumping saddles, I think of those show jumper and cross country people... eventers... rather than people who show hunt seat.  If you're only going to put the saddle on the horse to jump, then a jumping saddle is perfectly appropriate.  If you're going to show hunters or english equitation in the saddle, I'd get a close contact saddle because it will help you with your position more than a jumping saddle and you can still use it for fences classes.  If you're looking to make an investment in a saddle and plan to use it for showing for many years in the future, I'd get a close contact rather than an all-purpose saddle.

If you're just looking for a comfortable saddle to hack around in and don't plan on showing, then an all-purpose would be fine.  And by all means, if you've found a good deal, then get it!  I'd recommend sitting in the saddle before you buy it just so that you know if you like it or not.  You can jump in an A/P saddle.  the only thing about getting a jumping saddle for flatting is that the flap will be very forward, so the knee roll will be very forward and won't help your leg very much on the flat.  But the flaps are in varying places on different saddles.  Just make sure you know that you like the saddle before you buy it.  some places allow you to do a trial.  if you're buying online and don't have that option, I'd recommend going to a tack shop and trying saddles there, then buying online after you know what you like.  Wintec makes a nice inexpensive saddle, but I personally don't really like them... I find them to be a little slippery and kinda bulky for hunt seat equitation (the seat's a little too deep and comes up around you too much).  But it's really a personal choice.  If you're just looking for a comfortable saddle to pleasure ride in, then it might fit you better than me.  An A/P saddle would probably be a good fit for you... it's designed for pleasure riders who want to do a little of everything with their horse.