How do you choose an Iberian saddle: Portuguese tradition or doma vaquera?
Iberian riding calls for tack suited to specific codes and a particular position. Riders look for close contact, a deep seat and a secure feel to perform arena movements or ride outdoors. Choosing an Iberian saddle starts with deciding on your main discipline:
- Portuguese riding: geared to classical dressage and high-school work, it favours a long leg and a rider sitting upright in the seat.
- Doma vaquera: inherited from herdsmen working cattle, it calls for responsive riding, great stability through sharp transitions and lasting comfort over long hours in the saddle.
- Fit to the horse: the shape of the back, the width of the spine and the clearance at the withers should guide the gullet width and the support of the panels.
What makes a Portuguese dressage saddle distinctive?
At the heart of Portuguese tack, the Portuguese dressage saddle stands out for its pronounced blocks and protective side panels. This design holds the pelvis firmly without restricting the hip movement needed for collection exercises. Portuguese saddles let you follow each stride precisely while keeping a long, deep seat. In our catalogue we offer the Portuguese saddle by GOMES. This traditional model reflects the standards of presentation and flatwork inspired by Portuguese equestrian art. If you are unsure about your horse's measurements, our team can send you extra photos from several angles.
Why ride in a Spanish vaquera saddle?
A symbol of traditional working horsemanship, the vaquera saddle is known for its large contact area and stability. In a Spanish vaquera saddle, the rider is held against the wraparound cantle, which absorbs shocks and keeps you secure through sharp starts and halts. To meet these demands of fieldwork and tradition, we offer the "Pablo Hermoso de Mendoza" vaquera saddle by GOMEZ. Iberian saddles of this type spread the rider's weight over a wide bearing surface, protecting the back muscles during long sessions.
What should you check to make sure a saddle fits your horse?
Before settling on one of our Iberian saddles, there are several points to check to keep your horse comfortable:
- Front-to-back balance: the seat should be at its lowest point in the middle, without tipping forwards or backwards once girthed up.
- Spinal clearance: the central channel should clear the spinous processes completely and let daylight through along its whole length.
- Panel contact: the panels should follow the back evenly without creating pressure points.