Shalisha Alston English synthetic saddles have really changed over the years, and nowadays they’re a solid choice for riders of all backgrounds. If you’re just starting out with English riding, shopping for a young rider, or want something easy-going, these saddles are well worth looking into. In this guide, I’m sharing what I’ve experienced with synthetic English … Read more
Picking between a monoflap and a double flap saddle is a pretty big move for any rider, especially if you’re putting in a solid 3–5 days a week or stepping up your training. The feel, feedback, and performance you get from your saddle can really change how confident you feel over fences or in the … Read more
Getting saddle fit right for young horses is pretty important for their comfort and development. Young horses are still growing, changing in shape surprisingly fast, and a saddle that fits well today might not work for them in a few months. Learning how to check English saddle fit for your young horse saves you a … Read more
Dressage often looks elegant and calm from the outside. But when it comes to kids riding dressage, safety always takes the front seat. I’ve spent plenty of hours around beginner riders. It’s super important to cover all the basics so kids can keep their love for horses alive and safe. This guide answers big questions … Read more
Choosing the best dressage saddle for your child is something I’ve put a lot of thought into, not just for safety, but also for their comfort and progress in riding. Parents often wonder if it’s too soon for a dressage saddle, whether an all-purpose saddle will do for now, or if using a fitter is … Read more
Picking an English saddle for a horse with high withers comes with its own quirks. Horses with high withers are often built with that sleek, sharp shoulder and a spine that seems to peek right out at you. Finding a saddle that works for them is rarely as simple as picking a size off the … Read more
Choosing between an adjustable tree saddle and a fixed tree saddle can be a big decision for any rider. Both types have unique benefits and drawbacks that impact comfort for both the horse and rider, long-term fit, and cost. With so many factors to consider, knowing the real differences makes it easier to pick the … Read more
Finding the right English saddle for a narrow horse can be a real puzzle, especially if your horse has a slim build, tall withers, or a changing topline. I know how tough it is to see your horse uncomfortable or slipping saddles, even when trying different pads and girths. If the fit isn’t right, both … Read more
A dressage saddle comparison guide helps riders evaluate saddle fit, seat depth, tree type, panel design, and price so they can choose a saddle that supports correct position while keeping the horse comfortable and balanced. If you’re after a dressage saddle, there’s a lot more to finding the perfect one than just picking your favorite … Read more
An ill-fitting saddle can quietly cause a whole bunch of headaches for both the horse and the rider. Knowing why saddle fit matters, what problems to watch for, and what to do when things go wrong is really important if you want happy, healthy rides. Here’s my full guide to understanding how an ill-fitting English … Read more