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Whats the difference when u use a forward jumping saddle than a close contact saddle2007-11-24 21:22:43

i just don't get it??

Answers:

There's not a whole lot of difference - close contact saddle usually is more for professional showing and has slightly less material and smaller knee flaps.

The jumping saddle saddle generally has a larger/padded forward curving knee flaps to assist the rider in correct position for the jump.

Both are acceptable, however the close contact saddle MAY indicate that a rider is more advanced and has better close body control of the horse.

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Close contact saddles are supposed to let you get closer to the horse but in my opinion are awful and very uncomfortable. I've never seen them in Europe, just over here. The seats are very flat and the cantle is square. A forward cut jumping saddle has knee rolls, deeper seat and rounded cantle. I've just bought an new saddle for jumping and didn't even bother looking into close contacts because I don't see any benefit from them and you can achieve a great position and closeness with just a normal jumping saddle.

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I use a close contact saddle because I have more contact and communication with the horse. Also, I feel comfortable in it and a jumping saddle's flaps extend outward with knee rolls to help keep your legs in place when jumping. Personally, I jump fine in a close contact saddle.