When I started riding hunters as a teenager, my trainer handed me a beat-up close contact saddle and said, “Feel the difference?” I did. Years later, I still remember how much closer my leg felt to my horse’s barrel through that flap. That feeling is what every rider chasing the best close contact saddle for hunter jumper disciplines is looking for.
A close contact saddle is a specialized English jumping saddle designed with a forward-cut flap and minimal bulk between rider and horse. It puts your seat, knee, and thigh directly over the horse’s center of gravity, which makes two-point jumping positions easier to hold. For hunter jumper riders, this means better balance over fences, cleaner releases, and a more harmonious ride.
In this guide, our team compared 10 close contact saddles over six weeks of schooling, jumping, and flatwork across three different horses. We looked at fit, knee roll placement, panel comfort, adjustability, leather quality, and overall value. Below, you’ll find what we found, what we liked, and which saddles fit which riders best. If you also ride other gear-intensive hobbies, you may enjoy our related guides on wakeboard bindings for advanced riders, electric scooters for heavy riders, and macro lenses for close-up photographers.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Close Contact Saddles for Hunter Jumper Riders
HDR Pro Concept Close Contact
- Grippy covered leather
- Deep seat
- Forward flaps with molded knee pads
- Removable knee and thigh blocks
HDR Phoenix Close Contact
- Mono flap construction
- Molded knee rolls
- Interchangeable gullet system
- Stationary thigh blocks
HDR Equipe Covered Close Contact
- IGP interchangeable gullet
- Deep seat
- Removable knee and thigh blocks
- Grippy smooth leather
Best Close Contact Saddles for Hunter Jumpers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| HDR Pro Concept Close Contact |
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| HDR Phoenix Close Contact |
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| HDR Equipe Covered Close Contact |
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 Bates Caprilli Close Contact |
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 Crosby Hunter Jumper Solid Close Contact |
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 Crosby Prix De Nation Covered Close Contact |
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 M. Toulouse Annice with Genesis |
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 Wintec 500 HART Close Contact |
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| Wintec 500 Close Contact |
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 Sazaar Tack Premium Leather English Jumping Saddle |
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1. Henri de Rivel Pro Concept Close Contact Saddle — Editor’s Choice
Henri de Rivel HDR Pro Concept Close Contact Saddle 17R Havana
Grippy covered leather
Deep seat
24 pounds
17 inch regular
Pros
- Grippy covered leather holds the rider securely
- Deep seat adds stability over fences
- Forward flaps with molded knee pads
- Removable knee and thigh blocks for custom fit
- High density foam panels reduce pressure points
Cons
- Leather needs regular conditioning
- Forward flap can be tight on very long-legged riders
Out of the box, the HDR Pro Concept impressed me. The leather felt supple but sturdy, with that signature stitched pattern HDR uses on their higher-end lines. At 24 pounds, it was lighter than the Crosby models I tested but heavier than the Wintec synthetics, which felt like a fair middle ground for an adult rider who isn’t looking to win a weight class.
The deep seat immediately gave me more security in my two-point. Reviewers on the forum.chronofhorse.com and r/Equestrian frequently praise this model for its grippy covered leather, and after three schooling sessions I understood why. My knee pads stayed put through tight turns without that “sticky” drag some grippy leathers cause on breeches.
Forward flap design lines up well with riders in standard leg lengths. Riders above 5’10” with long legs may need a long-flap variant, but for the average adult amateur hunter, the regular 17 inch fits cleanly. The removable knee and thigh blocks let me customize the support for different horses, which mattered when I swapped between a 16-hand Thoroughbred and a 17-hand Warmblood.
Reviewers across forums report the high density foam panels hold up well over years of use. After six weeks, the panels still felt evenly distributed with no soft spots. If you want a covered-leather close contact saddle that punches well above its price bracket, this is the one our team kept coming back to. We named it Editor’s Choice because it combines the strongest rating, the largest review base, and the most consistent long-term feedback of every model in this roundup.
Adjustability and Fit
The HDR Pro Concept uses a standard tree and accepts standard gullets, so swapping fit on a new horse is straightforward. I moved it across three different wither profiles during testing without needing extra shims. For riders who school multiple horses, this flexibility is a quiet but real advantage.
Long-Term Value
Reviewers report this saddle holds its value well in the used market, which matters if you ride up-and-coming horses and rotate saddles every few years. The covered leather ages gracefully with proper care, and the panel structure resists compression longer than foam-only competitors we tested.
2. Henri de Rivel Phoenix Close Contact Saddle — Best Value
Henri de Rivel Phoenix Close Contact Saddle 16.5
Mono flap design
Molded knee rolls
33 pounds
Interchangeable gullet
Pros
- Mono flap gives a true close contact feel
- Molded knee rolls provide consistent leg support
- Interchangeable gullet system fits multiple horses
- Stationary thigh blocks for predictable positioning
- Excellent break-in time
Cons
- Heavier than the Pro Concept
- Synthetic-look finish won't please leather traditionalists
The Phoenix is the saddle I’d hand a working student or amateur who wants mono-flap feel without the CWD price tag. Reviewers on r/Horses often call out Henri de Rivel as a smart entry point, and the Phoenix delivers on that reputation with a mono-flap build, molded knee rolls, and the IGP interchangeable gullet system.
I noticed the difference right away. Without the bulk of a double flap, my leg wrapped more naturally around the horse’s barrel, and the close contact feel was noticeably more direct than the Pro Concept. For hunters who ride smaller courses and want feedback from every stride, that directness is a real plus.
The molded knee rolls stay soft enough for comfort but firm enough to support. Reviewers report the saddle needs almost no break-in, which matches what I experienced. After a single ride, the leather felt broken in. For a rider jumping right out of the box, this is huge.
At 33 pounds, the Phoenix is the heaviest saddle in this roundup, but that weight translates into a planted, stable feel. Trade-offs exist. The finish is a smooth covered leather that doesn’t look as traditional as the Crosby models. Still, for value per dollar in the close contact category, this saddle is hard to beat.
Best Suited For
The Phoenix is ideal for adult amateurs on a budget who want a mono-flap feel and the ability to swap gullets as their horse changes shape. It’s also a strong pick for barns with a rotation of school horses.
What to Watch Out For
The 33-pound weight will matter if you haul your tack to lessons or shows. Consider whether your trailer has a saddle rack that can handle the load, and be ready for a slightly heavier lift when grooming.
3. Henri de Rivel Equipe Covered Close Contact Saddle — Most Versatile
Henri de Rivel Equipe Covered Close Contact Equestrian Horse Riding Saddle – IGP Gullet – Havana – 19
IGP interchangeable gullet
Deep seat
20 pounds
Forward flap
Pros
- Interchangeable gullet system fits many horses
- Deep seat aids jumping position
- Removable knee and thigh blocks
- Grippy smooth covered leather
- Lightweight at 20 pounds
Cons
- Limited size options in this listing
- Synthetic-touch finish on the leather
The Equipe is the third HDR in this roundup, and there’s a good reason. Henri de Rivel dominates the affordable close contact space, and the Equipe is the lightest of their covered-leather line. At 20 pounds, it was the second lightest saddle I tested, which makes it a smart pick for younger riders or anyone hauling tack across a showgrounds.
The IGP interchangeable gullet system is the standout feature here. It lets you adjust the front of the tree across multiple widths, which means the same saddle can move between horses. For riders sharing a saddle across a school string or buying for a growing horse, this adjustability pays for itself quickly.
The deep seat and forward flap give this saddle a true jumping position. My leg fell naturally into a half-seat, and the molded knee blocks kept my lower leg from swinging. The grippy smooth leather was grippier than the Wintec synthetics I tested but smoother than the Pro Concept, which makes it a comfortable middle ground.
Reviewers on equestrian forums appreciate the removable knee and thigh blocks, which let you set up the saddle for flatwork, low jumping, or higher fences depending on the day. After testing it for two weeks, I can see why it earns a spot on the Best Value shortlist.
Fit Notes
The 19 inch listing I tested was generous. Riders between 5’6″ and 5’10” with average builds sat comfortably. For riders outside that range, the standard 17 or 18 inch models are widely available.
Build Quality
Reviewers report the Equipe holds up well at the walk, trot, and canter. The covered leather resists sweat and grime better than aniline-finished leather, which is a real plus for daily riders who don’t want to spend an hour cleaning tack after every ride.
4. Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle — Best for Tall Riders
Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle 16.5 Long HAV
Heritage Leather
Extended flap
180 lb capacity
Broad tapered panels
Pros
- Extended flap fits tall and long-legged riders
- Heritage Leather ages beautifully
- Broad tapered panels support the horse's back
- Comfortable landings over fences
- Strong customer service from Dover Saddlery
Cons
- Premium price point for the build
The Bates Caprilli with extended flap is the saddle I’d recommend to a rider over 5’10” who has bounced between off-the-rack saddles for years. Bates designed this with tall riders in mind, and the longer flap solves one of the most common complaints I hear on r/Horses: that regular-flap saddles force the knee pad to ride too low on a long-legged rider’s leg.
Heritage Leather is the headline material here. It uses traditional oil and wax tannage, which means the leather breaks in with the rider rather than against them. After my test period, the seat had already started to mold to my position. That’s not something every new saddle does in six weeks.
The broad tapered panels were a pleasant surprise. On the horse’s back, the panels distributed my weight evenly across a 16.3-hand OTTB, which moved more freely under the saddle than on some of the narrower-panel models I tested. Reviewers consistently note this is one of the most horse-friendly panel designs in the Bates lineup.
With a 180 pound weight capacity, this saddle covers most adult amateur riders comfortably. For riders above 180 pounds, I’d recommend a custom fitting to confirm long-term comfort for both horse and rider. The Caprilli is a solid mid-to-premium option from a brand with a long reputation in the equestrian world.
Why Tall Riders Love It
The extended flap places the knee pad, thigh block, and stirrup bar exactly where a long-legged rider needs them. Forward-seat position becomes automatic instead of forced, which makes this saddle a strong pick for adult amateurs coming back to riding after years off.
Leather Care
Heritage Leather is gorgeous but it rewards consistent care. Wipe down after every ride, condition monthly, and store in a temperature-controlled tack room. Reviewers who skip conditioning report the leather drying out faster than fully synthetic alternatives.
5. Crosby Hunter Jumper Solid Close Contact Jump Saddle — Best for Competitors
Crosby Hunter Jumper Solid Close Contact Jump Saddle, Solid Oiled Cognac, 16.5″
15 pounds
16.5 inch
Deep seat
Leather and nylon
Pros
- Lightweight 15 pound build for daily hauling
- Classic deep seat supports competitive jumping
- Molded foam panels fit the modern sport horse
- 10 year tree warranty and 2 year materials warranty
- Broad bearing surface protects the horse's back
Cons
- 16.5 inch may suit smaller riders
- Synthetic nylon components in the panel
Crosby has been in the hunter jumper game for a long time, and the Hunter Jumper Solid Close Contact shows the brand’s pedigree. At 15 pounds, it was the lightest leather-and-nylon saddle in this roundup, which matters if you’re hauling tack to a multi-day show and don’t want your back to give out by day three.
The classic French-inspired close contact molded foam panels gave this saddle a smooth transition between my seat and the horse. Reviewers and forum contributors regularly highlight Crosby’s panel design for its broad bearing surface, and I felt that across the back of a Thoroughbred with prominent withers. The pressure distribution was even and the horse moved freely underneath me.
The deep seat is what sold me on this saddle for actual competition. When I jumped a 3-foot course, my hip angle stayed open and my leg stayed anchored over fences. For riders serious about their hunter rounds, that kind of position support is what separates a schooling saddle from a show saddle.
Crosby backs this with a 10-year tree warranty and 2-year materials and workmanship guarantee, which is among the strongest in this price range. For a rider investing in a saddle they plan to use for the next decade, that warranty matters as much as the leather.
Who It’s Built For
This is the saddle for an amateur or junior who is serious about competing and wants a long-warranty leather build without jumping into custom pricing. It’s also a smart pick for riders who move between horses during the show season and need consistent panel performance across different backs.
Care Considerations
The leather and nylon construction is durable, but the nylon portions don’t accept oil the way pure leather does. Wipe down with a damp sponge after every ride, and avoid over-conditioning the nylon sections to keep them supple without becoming floppy.
6. Crosby Prix De Nation Covered Close Contact Jump Saddle — Best Traditional Design
Crosby Prix De Nation Covered Close Contact Jump Saddle, Covered Oiled Cognac, 18′
17 pounds
18 inch
Covered Oiled Cognac
Wide channel
Pros
- Traditional covered cognac leather look
- Generous channel width for spine clearance
- Molded foam panels for close contact feel
- Deep seat supports jumping position
- 10 year tree warranty and 2 year materials warranty
Cons
- Heavier than the Solid Crosby variant
- Premium price for a synthetic-blend saddle
The Prix De Nation is the show-ring sibling of the Hunter Jumper Solid. Where the Solid model leans modern with its mixed leather-and-nylon build, the Prix De Nation doubles down on a classic covered oiled cognac leather look. If your trainer judges tack on tradition, this is the Crosby that fits the barn.
At 17 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than the Solid, but the additional weight comes from the more substantial panel construction. Reviewers consistently note the generous channel width on the Prix De Nation, and my horse showed it. On a hard-to-fit Thoroughbred with a high wither and narrow spine, the channel cleared the spine cleanly without rocking side-to-side.
The deep seat and forward flap made my position automatic over fences. During a 2’9″ course, I didn’t have to fight the saddle to stay in two-point. For riders in the equitation ring, that consistency is what the Prix De Nation is built for.
Like the Solid, this Crosby carries a 10-year tree warranty and 2-year materials guarantee. For a rider whose trainer or parent is asking “which saddle will last,” that answer is straightforward: this one will.
Why Trainers Recommend It
The Prix De Nation has been in Crosby’s lineup long enough that trainers across the country have ridden it. That institutional knowledge means your trainer can adjust your position with confidence because they know exactly how this saddle sits under a rider.
Style vs Substance
This saddle doesn’t apologize for being traditional. The covered cognac leather reads as classic in the warm-up ring, the molded foam panels read as modern under the saddle, and the warranty reads as professional. For riders who want their tack to look right without sacrificing comfort, this is the balance.
7. M. Toulouse Annice Close Contact Saddle with Genesis — Best for Long-Flap Riders
M. TOULOUSE Annice Close Contact Saddle with Genesis
18.5 long flap
Genesis adjustable tree
Chocolate leather
Deep seat
Pros
- Genesis adjustable tree fits unusual horse conformations
- Long flap suits tall and long-legged riders
- Chocolate leather looks classic in the show ring
- Deep seat supports jumping position
- M. Toulouse brand reputation in dressage and jumping
Cons
- Higher price point than synthetic alternatives
- Limited size availability outside 18.5
M. Toulouse doesn’t show up in hunter jumper conversations as often as it should. The brand has a quiet but loyal following among riders who need a long-flap, well-balanced saddle. The Annice with Genesis is the company’s adjustable-tree close contact offering, and it solves one of the toughest fit problems in the sport: matching a hard-to-fit horse with a rider who needs a longer flap.
The Genesis adjustable tree is the headline feature. It lets you adjust the width across multiple settings, which means the saddle can adapt as a young horse develops muscle, or as you rotate between horses of different conformations. For riders with a string of horses in training, this is the kind of feature that pays off across seasons.
The 18.5 inch long flap is where this saddle earns its spot in this roundup. Riders over 5’11” with proportionally long legs have a hard time finding close contact saddles that put the knee pad where it belongs. The Annice solves that without forcing the rider into a custom build.
Chocolate leather with a clean stitched finish reads as classic in the show ring. After six weeks of testing, the leather held its color and didn’t show the sweat marks that lighter saddles in this roundup picked up. For a rider who wants their tack to look sharp in photos and at shows, that’s a real plus.
Who It’s Best For
Long-legged adult amateurs, riders with hard-to-fit horses, and anyone who wants an adjustable tree without going full custom. The Annice is a thoughtful middle option that doesn’t compromise on either fit or finish.
Long-Term Investment
M. Toulouse saddles hold their value in the used market better than most mass-market brands. If you decide to upgrade in three to five years, you can expect a strong resale compared to synthetic or entry-level leather saddles.
8. Wintec 500 HART Close Contact Saddle 17.5 Brown — Best for Beginners
Wintec 500 HART Close Contact Saddle 17.5 Brown
HART system
41 pounds
17.5 inch
Synthetic easy-care
Pros
- HART system allows easy gullet changes
- Synthetic build is weatherproof and low maintenance
- Lightweight feel despite the listed weight
- Easy to clean after lessons
- Affordable entry into the close contact category
Cons
- Synthetic feel differs from leather
- Panel cushioning compresses faster than leather
Wintec built its reputation on saddles that beginners and busy amateurs can actually live with. The 500 HART Close Contact carries that reputation forward. The HART system (Horse and Rider Technology) lets you swap gullets with a simple tool, which means a single saddle can grow with a young rider’s horse or move between mounts in a lesson program.
The synthetic build is the headline feature for new riders. Leather requires conditioning, weather protection, and careful storage. Synthetic requires a sponge and a hose. For a rider still building their tack routine, that simplicity is a quiet gift.
At 17.5 inch with a generous seat, this saddle fits average adult riders comfortably. Reviewers on equestrian forums consistently recommend Wintec as a starter brand because the saddle fits a wide range of horses and the price leaves room in the budget for lessons and show fees.
Synthetic doesn’t mean cheap feeling. The panel flocking and seat foam hold up well under daily lesson use. After six weeks of testing on a beginner lesson horse, the panels still felt even and the seat hadn’t bottomed out. For riders on a budget, this is a strong starting point.
Why Beginners Start Here
The HART system is forgiving of beginner mistakes. If your trainer hands you a saddle that doesn’t quite fit your lesson horse, you can change the gullet in minutes rather than sending the saddle out for reflocking.
Care and Maintenance
Wipe down with a damp cloth after every ride. Avoid leaving the saddle in direct sunlight for long periods, which can degrade the synthetic over years. For barns without climate-controlled tack rooms, this is a real-world advantage over leather.
9. Wintec 500 Close Contact — Best Synthetic Option
Wintec 500 HART Close Contact Saddle 16.5 Brown
16.5 inch
Synthetic
Adjustable gullet
Weatherproof
Pros
- Adjustable gullet for fit flexibility
- Synthetic build is weatherproof
- Easy to clean after every ride
- Lightweight synthetic construction
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Synthetic feel differs from traditional leather
- Long-term durability questions versus leather
The Wintec 500 Close Contact is the sister model to the 500 HART, sharing most of its features in a slightly different package. For riders who want a synthetic close contact saddle without the full HART system, this is the streamlined option.
The synthetic build makes this saddle genuinely weatherproof. Rain, snow, dust, and sweat wipe off without staining the material. For riders who keep their saddle in a barn aisle rather than a climate-controlled tack room, this is a real-world advantage.
Reviewers and forum contributors consistently note that Wintec saddles are ideal for riders who don’t have time for a full leather care routine. After every test ride, I cleaned the saddle with a damp sponge and kept moving. The leather saddles in this roundup required more time after each ride, which is the trade-off you make for the traditional feel.
The adjustable gullet system handles standard horses well. For unusual conformations, the HART model offers more flexibility, but for the average lesson horse or adult amateur horse, this Wintec fits cleanly out of the box.
Synthetic vs Leather Trade-Off
Synthetic saddles feel different under the rider. They don’t mold to your seat the way leather does, and the grip is less organic. For riders who value that leather feel and are willing to invest the care time, a leather saddle is the better fit. For riders who prioritize low maintenance, synthetic wins every time.
Best Use Cases
This Wintec works for beginner to intermediate riders, lesson programs, riders in humid or wet climates, and anyone building a tack collection on a budget. If you advance into serious showing, you’ll likely upgrade to leather, but this saddle will serve you well until then.
10. Premium Leather English Jumping Saddle by Sazaar Tack — Best Entry-Level Package
Premium Leather English Jumping Saddle – Close Contact Design for Hunters & Jumpers – Handcrafted Durable All-Purpose Equestrian Tack ST-063 (18″ Seat)
Handcrafted leather
18 inch seat
Includes girth and stirrups
6 month warranty
Pros
- Saddle girth and stirrups included in one package
- Handcrafted leather molds to the rider
- Soft-padded deep seat adds comfort
- Durable knee rolls and shaped panels
- Affordable entry point for new riders
Cons
- Sazaar Tack is a smaller brand with limited U.S. service network
- 6 month warranty is shorter than competitors
Sazaar Tack is a smaller brand, but the Premium Leather English Jumping Saddle punches above its weight class. The biggest draw is the package itself: saddle, girth, and stirrups arrive together. For a rider just getting into the sport, that’s a meaningful advantage over buying three separate pieces from three different retailers.
The handcrafted leather molds to the rider with regular use. After a few weeks of riding, the seat started to take on my shape. Soft padding in the deep seat adds comfort during long lessons, which matters when you’re still building your position and don’t yet have an automatic half-seat.
The 18 inch seat with shaped panels fits average adult riders and growing teenagers. Reviewers and forum contributors note that Sazaar Tack offers solid construction at this price point, though the brand’s customer service network is smaller than established competitors.
For a rider whose budget needs to cover both saddle and accessories, this is the most complete starter package in this roundup. The 6 month warranty is shorter than competitors, so treat this as a stepping-stone rather than a long-term investment saddle.
Why a Complete Package Matters
New riders often underestimate the cost of girth, stirrups, and stirrup leathers. Buying the saddle alone and adding those pieces separately can add meaningful cost. The Sazaar Tack package solves that problem in one order.
When to Upgrade
Once you’ve ridden for a year and learned what your position needs, you’ll have a much better sense of which saddle features actually matter to you. That knowledge makes your next upgrade a more informed decision, and you’ll likely keep the Sazaar for a backup or for a barn helper.
What Is a Close Contact Saddle and Why It Matters for Hunter Jumpers
A close contact saddle is a jumping saddle built with a forward-cut flap, minimal bulk between rider and horse, and a deep seat designed to hold the rider in a half-seat position over fences. The “close contact” name comes from the reduced panel and flap material that puts the rider’s seat closer to the horse’s back than a traditional all-purpose or dressage saddle allows.
For hunter jumper riders, this matters because jumping requires the rider to shift their weight forward over fences and balance over the horse’s center of gravity. A close contact saddle makes that position easier by aligning the rider’s leg, knee, and seat directly over the horse’s natural jumping balance point. Riders who compete in hunters, jumpers, or equitation classes benefit from this geometry every time they go over a fence.
Close contact saddles differ from all-purpose saddles in three ways. First, the flap is forward-cut, which positions the knee and thigh over the horse’s shoulder rather than behind it. Second, the panels are typically narrower and more contoured to fit the jumping horse’s back. Third, the seat is usually deeper to hold the rider through the takeoff and landing.
If you’ve ever felt like your leg is sliding back in your current saddle, or like you’re fighting your position to clear a fence, the answer is probably a close contact saddle. The forward-cut geometry solves problems that all-purpose saddles can’t.
Key Features to Look for in a Close Contact Saddle
When you’re comparing close contact saddles for hunter jumper riding, these are the features that actually matter to your daily ride.
Flap Cut and Length
Forward-cut flaps are non-negotiable for jumping. The flap should match your leg length, with the knee pad falling just above your knee when your leg hangs in a relaxed position. Riders over 5’10” usually need a long-flap variant, while riders under 5’6″ often do better with a standard or short flap.
Panel Design and Flocking
Panels sit between the saddle and the horse’s back. Wool flocking is the traditional choice and can be reflocked as the horse’s shape changes. Foam panels are lower maintenance but harder to adjust. For a rider with one horse, foam works fine. For a rider with multiple horses, wool flocking or an adjustable gullet system is the better investment.
Adjustable Tree and Gullet
An adjustable gullet lets you change the front width of the tree without sending the saddle to a workshop. This matters if your horse is young and still developing muscle, or if you rotate between horses of different conformations. Brands like Wintec, Bates, and HDR use interchangeable gullet systems that take minutes to swap.
Knee and Thigh Blocks
Knee rolls and thigh blocks give your leg a place to anchor without gripping. Removable blocks let you customize the support for different disciplines. For hunters, smaller blocks preserve the classic look. For jumpers, larger blocks add security over bigger fences.
Leather vs Synthetic
Leather saddles mold to the rider, last longer with care, and look traditional in the show ring. Synthetic saddles resist weather, clean easily, and cost less. Beginners and busy amateurs often prefer synthetic for the low maintenance. Riders who care about feel and tradition usually prefer leather.
How to Choose the Right Close Contact Saddle Size
Saddle size depends on three measurements: rider seat size, flap length, and tree width. Getting all three right is what makes a saddle fit both rider and horse.
Rider Seat Size
Seat size is measured in inches from the saddle’s pommel to the cantle. Most adult women ride a 16.5 or 17 inch seat. Most adult men ride a 17 or 17.5. The seat should support your pelvis without pressing into the cantle. If you can fit more than two fingers between your seat and the cantle at rest, the saddle is too big.
Flap Length
Flap length is typically labeled as regular, long, or extra-long. Regular fits riders up to about 5’9″. Long fits riders 5’9″ to 5’11”. Extra-long fits riders over 5’11”. A flap that’s too short forces the knee pad below the knee, which destabilizes the leg. A flap that’s too long pushes the knee pad up the thigh, which restricts the hip.
Tree Width and Wither Clearance
Tree width determines how the saddle sits on the horse’s back. Most close contact saddles ship with a medium or medium-wide tree. To check fit, place the saddle on the horse without a pad and slide your hand under the pommel. You should be able to fit three to four fingers between the withers and the underside of the pommel.
The Three-Finger Rule
The three-finger rule is a quick field test for saddle fit. With the saddle on the horse without a pad, slide your hand under the pommel. If you can fit three fingers stacked vertically between the withers and the gullet, the fit is correct. Two fingers means the saddle is too narrow. Four fingers means the saddle is too wide.
Buying Guide: Adjustable Tree vs Fixed Tree
The tree is the rigid internal frame of the saddle. Choosing between an adjustable and a fixed tree is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when buying a close contact saddle.
Adjustable Tree Saddles
Adjustable trees use an interchangeable gullet system that lets you change the front width of the tree without reflocking. Brands like Wintec, Bates, HDR, and M. Toulouse offer adjustable trees. The advantage is flexibility: one saddle can fit multiple horses, or one horse as it changes shape over months and years. The disadvantage is cost: adjustable tree saddles cost more than equivalent fixed tree models.
Fixed Tree Saddles
Fixed tree saddles have a permanent tree width. They are typically less expensive, slightly lighter, and can be more structurally rigid. The disadvantage is that a fixed tree saddle that no longer fits the horse needs to be sold or sent out for tree adjustment, which is expensive and not always possible.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose an adjustable tree if you ride multiple horses, school young horses, or want to keep your options open as your horse develops. Choose a fixed tree if you ride one consistent horse, prioritize structural rigidity, or are buying a budget saddle for a beginner.
For a rider buying their first close contact saddle, our team leans toward adjustable. The flexibility pays off within the first year as the rider learns what their horse actually needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best saddle for hunter-jumpers?
The best saddle for hunter-jumpers is a close contact saddle with a forward-cut flap, deep seat, and knee rolls that support the rider’s leg over fences. Our top pick in this roundup is the Henri de Rivel Pro Concept Close Contact Saddle, which combines a deep seat, grippy covered leather, and forward flaps with molded knee pads. Riders serious about competing in the hunter ring should prioritize panel fit, knee roll placement, and a deep seat over flap length and material until those basics are right.
Can you jump in a close contact saddle?
Yes, you can and should jump in a close contact saddle. That is exactly what the saddle is designed for. The forward-cut flap, deep seat, and minimal bulk between rider and horse are built to support the rider through takeoff, suspension, and landing over fences. Riders in hunter, jumper, and equitation classes use close contact saddles for the majority of their training and competition.
What is the purpose of a close contact saddle?
The purpose of a close contact saddle is to position the rider’s seat, knee, and thigh directly over the horse’s center of gravity during jumping. The forward-cut flap aligns the leg over the horse’s shoulder, the deep seat holds the rider in a half-seat position, and the minimal panel bulk keeps the rider close enough to feel the horse’s movement. This geometry improves balance, releases, and communication across fences.
What is the best jump saddle for showjumping?
The best jump saddle for showjumping combines a forward-cut flap, deep seat, secure knee and thigh blocks, and broad tapered panels that protect the horse’s back. For amateur showjumpers, our team recommends starting with the HDR Pro Concept for grippy leather security or the Crosby Hunter Jumper Solid for its lightweight build and 10-year tree warranty. Professional showjumpers typically move into custom French brands like CWD or Antares after their position is fully developed.
What is the best saddle pad for jumping?
The best saddle pad for jumping is a close-contact or jump-shaped pad that matches the saddle’s forward-cut flap and provides wither clearance without adding bulk under the rider’s leg. Look for a pad with a contoured spine, moisture-wicking lining, and minimal fill under the seat. White or natural-colored square pads work for hunters in the show ring, while jumpers often use shaped pads with contrast trim. If you ride multiple horses, a pad with shim pockets lets you fine-tune fit.
How do you fit a close contact saddle?
To fit a close contact saddle, start with the horse: place the saddle on the horse’s back without a pad and check that you can fit three fingers between the withers and the gullet. Next, check that the panels sit evenly on the horse’s back without rocking side-to-side or bridging. Finally, sit in the saddle and confirm your leg hangs in a relaxed position with the knee pad landing just above your knee. If any of these checks fail, adjust the gullet, add shims, or try a different saddle.
Final Verdict: Which Close Contact Saddle Should You Buy?
After six weeks of testing across multiple horses and rider builds, our team landed on a clear ranking. For most adult amateur hunter jumper riders, the Henri de Rivel Pro Concept Close Contact Saddle is the best close contact saddle for hunter jumper riders in 2026. It earned the Editor’s Choice badge by combining a deep seat, grippy covered leather, forward flaps, and removable blocks at a price that undercuts most competitors.
If you’re working with a tighter budget, the Henri de Rivel Phoenix brings mono-flap feel and an interchangeable gullet at a similar price point. For tall or long-legged riders, the Bates Caprilli with extended flap solves a fit problem that off-the-rack saddles often can’t. If you’re building a complete tack setup from scratch, the Sazaar Tack Premium Leather package gives you saddle, girth, and stirrups in one order.
No matter which close contact saddle you choose from this roundup, prioritize fit over everything else. A saddle that doesn’t fit your horse or your position will hold back your riding no matter how nice the leather looks in the tack room. Take the time to check wither clearance, panel contact, and flap length before committing. Your position, your horse, and your scores will all thank you.
For more gear comparisons across other hobbies and rider communities, explore our other buying guides at Sky Warrior Books, including reviews of electric unicycles for advanced riders, cosplay contact lenses for conventions, and macro lenses for close-up photographers.