A good saddle is one of the most important things you buy for your horse, and buying second-hand can save a lot of money. EquiMarket lists used saddles for sale from riders and retailers across Europe. They cover dressage, jumping, general purpose, eventing, western and treeless saddles.
Fit comes first
A saddle that does not fit can cause back pain, behaviour problems and poor performance, whatever its brand or price. Before you buy:
Know your horse’s measurements. Many brands describe tree width in their own way, so a “medium” from one maker may not match another.
Check the seat size and flap length for you as the rider.
Ask for a trial. Ask whether you can try the saddle on your horse before you commit, or agree a return period in writing.
Use a qualified saddle fitter. A fitter can check the fit on your horse and tell you whether adjustments are possible.
Check the condition
Ask the seller for clear photos of:
the seat, flaps and knee rolls
the panels from underneath, so you can check that they are even and free of lumps
the gullet and the channel along the spine
the stitching, billets and girth straps
any serial number or maker’s stamp
The tree. A broken or twisted tree makes a saddle unsafe and unsuitable for use. Ask whether the saddle has ever been dropped, fallen or been in an accident. Have a saddler or fitter check the tree if you have any doubt.
Panels and flocking. Wool-flocked panels can usually be re-flocked. Ask when this was last done.
Leather. Dry, cracked or stretched leather, especially on the billets and stirrup bars, is a safety issue.
Adjustable saddles
Some saddles have interchangeable gullet plates or adjustable trees. Ask what system the saddle uses and whether the parts are included.
Buying safely
Ask for the serial number and check with the maker if you can
Pay by a traceable method and keep the seller’s details
Agree the trial or return terms in writing
Insure and track parcels when a saddle is shipped
Selling a used saddle
Include the brand, model, seat size, tree width or gullet size, the panel type, the age and the condition. Add clear photos from all angles and mention any repairs or re-flocking. Honest listings sell faster.
Browse used saddles
Filter by type, seat size, width, brand, country and price. Sellers: list your saddle to reach riders across Europe.