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About This Week’s Lesson

Jumping in western saddles?

Hello!

I was watching the video about stopping and he mentioned showjumping was close to western(in stops) and then I started to wonder how you jump in a western saddle.Would the horn not get in the way?Do western people jump?Do they use a different saddle?Please answer my questions!Thanks for reading!

poncho133
Hello!

I have jumped my Arabian mare many times in a Western saddle. We keep the jumps low (under 2' as she is 14 hands 2') and the saddle is cut-back so it doesn't dig into her back (Arabians are short-backed, and have one vertebra less than some other breeds). She likes to jump and is very scopy. I just go along for the ride!
On the trail, there are times when it is necessary to jump over something, or at least if not necessary, easier. She does it well. I try to stay off her back, just like in riding English, in a 2-point seat. I lean forward and give her rein enough to perform effectively without being popped in the mouth.
Star is now 24 years old, and just as frisky as she was at 4. Her competence and confidence is awesome, and may in part be due to the knowledge that there's not much she CAN'T do.
Good luck! Poncho

Roisin!
Hello!

How do you lean forward if there is a horn in the way?

Sasafras
Hello! 100 lessons completed 150 lessons completed 200 lessons completed

Jump differently in western.. like a cowboy does! Buck jump!Yeehaw...otherwise it is mucho OUCH ..

mssmith599
Hello! 100 lessons completed 150 lessons completed 200 lessons completed 250 lessons completed

I have several friends who were really injured jumping in a western saddle. The western rider usually does not have to jump except over debris on the trail. The saddle is larger and the horn is in the way for a traditional jumping forward seat. As with English riding balance is critical. Not to far in front and not to far behind. Things are very much the same for both schools of riding, balance, control and light hands, help keep you safe.

Roisin!
Hello!

Thank you!!!!!!