Finding the right saddle does not always mean buying brand new. At Best Horse Saddle Shop, our range of second hand saddles gives UK riders the opportunity to find quality pre-owned saddles for different disciplines, horse shapes and riding requirements.

Whether you are looking for a second hand dressage saddle, used jumping saddle, pre-owned GP saddle, second hand eventing saddle or an affordable saddle for everyday riding, choosing the right model is about much more than price. The saddle needs to suit both your horse and your own riding position.

Our goal is to make buying a used saddle easier by providing clear product information, practical buying guidance and dependable delivery to customers throughout the UK.

Our selection of used saddles can be suitable for riders looking for quality equipment at a more accessible price than buying new.

Depending on availability, you may find:

• Second hand dressage saddles
• Used jumping saddles
• Pre-owned eventing saddles
• Second hand GP and all-purpose saddles
• Used leather saddles
• Pre-owned saddles for everyday riding
• Saddles in different seat sizes and widths
• Saddles from established equestrian brands

Stock changes regularly, so check the individual product listing for the saddle’s current specifications, condition, measurements and availability.

How to Choose the Right Second Hand Saddle in the UK

Buying a used saddle requires careful consideration. The most important question is not simply:

“Does this saddle look good?”

Instead, ask:

“Is this saddle appropriate for my horse, my riding discipline and my own size and position?”

The British Horse Society recommends having a purchased second-hand saddle checked and fitted by a qualified saddle fitter. A saddle that has previously been used on another horse may have settled or been adjusted to that horse’s shape, so it should not automatically be assumed to fit another horse.

1. Consider Your Riding Discipline

Start by deciding what you primarily want to use the saddle for.

Dressage

A dressage saddle is designed to support a more upright riding position and provide the rider with appropriate leg position and stability.

Show Jumping

Jump saddles are designed around the needs of riders who spend more time riding in a forward position and jumping fences.

Eventing

Eventing may require different considerations because the discipline combines dressage, show jumping and cross-country.

General Purpose

A GP or all-purpose saddle can be a practical option for riders who participate in several forms of everyday riding.

The BHS notes that different equestrian disciplines have different tack requirements, although some well-fitting all-purpose saddles can work across more than one discipline.

2. Get the Correct Saddle Size for Your Horse

One of the biggest mistakes when buying second hand saddles is choosing based only on the saddle’s stated width or size.

Your horse’s:

• Back shape
• Wither profile
• Shoulder movement
• Conformation
• Muscle development
• Fitness level
• Age
• Workload

can all influence saddle fit.

Horses can also change shape as their fitness, weight and muscle development change. The BHS recommends regular saddle checks because changes in the horse can affect how a saddle fits.

3. Make Sure the Saddle Fits the Rider Too

A saddle needs to work for both horse and rider.

Your height, leg length, body proportions and preferred riding position can influence the saddle size and design that works best for you.

The BHS specifically notes that rider proportions need to be considered when selecting saddle size and that a saddle should allow the rider to sit comfortably and in balance.

Before purchasing, check:

• Seat size
• Seat shape
• Knee roll position
• Flap length
• Flap position
• Overall rider support
• Whether the saddle suits your discipline

Saddle Fitting for Second Hand Saddles

Professional saddle fitting should be a priority when buying a used saddle.

A saddle that fitted one horse does not necessarily fit another.

The BHS and Society of Master Saddlers recommend professional assessment and fitting because a qualified fitter can identify whether the saddle is appropriate and whether adjustments such as reflocking may be required.

What should be checked?

A saddle fitter may assess areas such as:

• Wither clearance
• Gullet and channel
• Panel contact
• Balance
• Saddle position
• Shoulder clearance
• Tree suitability
• Rider position
• Overall stability

If you are unsure about the fit of a second-hand saddle, arrange a professional fitting before using it regularly.

The BHS currently recommends having saddle fit checked by a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter at least every six months, while recognising that the horse’s shape can change with weight, fitness and muscle development.

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What to Check Before Buying a Used Saddle

If you are considering a pre-owned saddle, don’t judge it from photographs alone.

The BHS recommends checking the condition carefully, including the leather, girth straps, stitching and tree.

Check the Leather

Look for:

• Excessive cracking
• Deep scratches
• Dry or damaged leather
• Significant wear
• Previous repairs

Check the Girth Straps

Girth straps experience considerable use. Look for cracking, excessive stretching, loose stitching or other signs of deterioration.

Inspect the Tree

The tree is a critical structural component. A saddle with a damaged tree should not be used.

Check the Panels

Look underneath the saddle for:

• Uneven panels
• Damage
• Excessive wear
• Poor repairs
• Irregular flocking

Look at the Stitching

Pay particular attention to areas around:

• Billets
• D-rings
• Flaps
• Panels
• Girth straps

If you’re uncertain about the condition of a used saddle, seek advice from a qualified saddler or saddle fitter before purchasing or using it.

Second Hand Dressage Saddles

Dressage riders looking for second hand saddles UK can explore pre-owned options designed around the needs of dressage riding.

When choosing a used dressage saddle, consider:

• Seat size
• Seat depth
• Knee block position
• Flap length
• Tree width
• Panel configuration
• Rider position
• Horse conformation

A good-looking dressage saddle isn’t necessarily the correct saddle for your horse, so professional fitting remains important.

Second Hand Jumping Saddles

For show jumping and jumping-focused riders, a suitable used jumping saddle should provide the rider with the appropriate balance and freedom of movement.

Consider:

• Seat size
• Flap length
• Forwardness of the flap
• Knee blocks
• Tree configuration
• Panel design
• Horse’s back shape

If you’re buying a jumping saddle for regular competition or training, make sure the saddle works for both your horse’s conformation and your riding position.

Second Hand GP & All Purpose Saddles

For riders who enjoy a mixture of schooling, hacking, jumping and general riding, a used GP saddle can be a practical choice.

An appropriately fitted all-purpose saddle may offer greater versatility than a discipline-specific saddle, particularly for riders who do not specialise in one discipline.

However, versatility should never replace correct fit.

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Buying Second Hand Saddles Online in the UK

Buying online gives UK riders access to a much wider selection of pre-owned saddles, but you should take extra care when purchasing without physically seeing the saddle.

Before ordering, check:

✔ Seat size

✔ Stated width

✔ Saddle measurements

✔ Condition

✔ Photographs

✔ Brand and model

✔ Flap measurements

✔ Panel details

✔ Return conditions

✔ Warranty information

✔ Availability

If you need additional measurements or photographs, contact our team before placing your order.

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Second Hand Saddles UK Delivery

At Best Horse Saddle Shop, we provide delivery to customers across the UK.

We understand that buying a saddle online requires dependable delivery, so we aim to process orders efficiently and provide customers with available tracking information where applicable.

We deliver to destinations throughout the UK, including:

• London
• Birmingham
• Manchester
• Liverpool
• Leeds
• Sheffield
• Bristol
• Nottingham
• Newcastle
• Edinburgh
• Glasgow
• Cardiff
• Belfast
• Southampton
• Oxford
• Cambridge

Delivery times can vary according to destination, courier service and order processing. Please check the current delivery information at checkout for the latest estimated timeframe.

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Returns on Second Hand Saddles

Buying a saddle online can involve uncertainty because every horse has a different shape.

That’s why our return policy should be clearly explained before purchase.

Before ordering a second hand saddle, check:

• The applicable return period
• Whether the saddle must be returned unused
• Return shipping requirements
• Condition requirements
• Any exclusions
• Refund processing times

For the most accurate information, always refer to the current Best Horse Saddle Shop Returns Policy before completing your purchase.

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Warranty & Condition

Our warranty terms should always reflect the specific product and the condition in which it is sold.

For second-hand saddles, the warranty should clearly explain what is covered and what is excluded.

Depending on the individual saddle and applicable terms, customers should check information relating to:

• Structural condition
• Tree
• Stitching
• Leather
• Hardware
• Existing wear
• Previous repairs
• Normal wear and tear

Always review the warranty conditions attached to the individual product before purchasing.

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Why Buy Second Hand Saddles from Best Horse Saddle Shop?

At Best Horse Saddle Shop, we understand that choosing a saddle is an important decision for both rider and horse.

We aim to provide:

UK Delivery

We ship second-hand saddles to customers across the UK.

Detailed Product Information

We provide available information about saddle size, condition and specifications.

Range of Riding Styles

Our selection can include dressage, jumping, GP, eventing and other saddle types depending on current stock.

Customer Support

If you have questions about a saddle’s specifications or available information, contact our team before ordering.

Returns

Our applicable return policy gives customers clear information about the conditions for returning eligible purchases.

Warranty Information

Applicable warranty terms are provided according to the individual product and its stated condition.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Second Hand Saddles

Are second hand saddles worth buying?

They can be. A well-maintained used saddle can provide good value, but condition and correct fitting are extremely important. The BHS recommends appropriate inspection and professional fitting when purchasing second-hand tack.

How do I know what size saddle my horse needs?

Saddle size cannot be determined from one measurement alone. Your horse’s conformation, back shape, withers and other factors need to be considered. A qualified saddle fitter can assess the horse and saddle together.

Can a second hand saddle be adjusted?

Some saddles can be adjusted or reflocked, depending on their construction and condition. A qualified saddle fitter or saddler can advise whether a particular saddle can be altered.

Should I have a used saddle professionally fitted?

Yes. This is one of the most important steps when buying a pre-owned saddle. A saddle previously fitted to another horse may not be appropriate for your horse.

How often should saddle fit be checked?

Horse shape can change with weight, fitness and muscle development. The BHS currently recommends saddle fit checks by an SMS Qualified Saddle Fitter at least every six months.

Can I return a second hand saddle?

Return eligibility depends on the product and your store’s current returns policy. Check the applicable terms before purchasing.

Do you deliver second hand saddles across the UK?

Yes, Best Horse Saddle Shop ships to customers throughout the UK, subject to the available delivery service and destination.

What should I check before buying a used saddle?

Check the leather, stitching, girth straps, panels, hardware and tree, and ask about previous repairs. The BHS specifically recommends checking for damage and signs of a compromised tree.