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Step 1
Find the style of saddle needed for the type of riding you do now and plan to do in a few years. Different categories of riding set guidelines on English, Western or other necessary saddle types.
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Step 2
Look for saddles sized and designed for the specific breed of horse you ride. A saddle that fits a Clydesdale properly will not fit a Quarter horse properly.
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Step 3
Find a saddle on which the rider will be comfortable. Saddles made of softer leather with smaller pores are usually better for riders.
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Step 4
Select the proper size of the seat on the saddle. A good salesperson should be able to match you up with the right size. Get the best fit possible with a custom-made saddle from a form taken from the rider and the horse. Remember to select a good saddle blanket to go with the saddle.
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Step 5
Sit in the saddle at the store to test it out for comfort. There should be approximately 4 inches between the front of your body and the fork of the saddle. You shouldn't be sitting on the back of the cantle (the rounded portion at the back of the seat).
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Step 6
Check the length of fenders and stirrup leathers if you are particularly tall or short. The length of the stirrups will greatly impact the quality of your ride, so make sure you get the properly fitted for length.
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Step 7
Saddle the horse and check the fit of the saddle on the animal. The horse's shoulders should have plenty of room to move and the saddle should distribute weight evenly across the horse's back.
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Step 8
Take the horse out for a ride and pay attention to how the equipment feels to you and how well it stays in contact with the horse.
