Racing saddles are surprisingly compact and lightweight. It is generally acknowledged that ‘dead’ weight—the saddle and any additional lead weights—is more challenging for a horse to bear during a race than only the jockey’s ‘live’ weight. Read more to learn how much does a horse racing saddle weigh.
READ MORE:
- How To Know What Size Saddle My Horse Needs
- How To Tell If A Western Saddle Fits A Horse
- How To Ride A Horse Without A Saddle Or Bridle
Martini Glass Position
In fact, modern jockeys hardly ever, if ever, sit in the saddle at all, preferring to stand up straight. Instead, they adopt the stance that has come to be known as the “Martini glass,” crouching in the stirrups and hovering calmly above the saddle.
Racing Saddle Design
Racing saddles have relatively long, flat seats that don’t dip. Their main functions are to fit extremely forward flaps and extremely short stirrups, enabling riders to adopt the distinctive current riding stance. There is only one girth strap on every racing saddle. the purpose is to give jockeys a lower leg that is more secure over hurdles and fences.
Racing Saddle Purpose
The racing saddle’s main function is to increase the jockey’s mobility and bring the horse closer to the rider.
Racing Saddle Weigh
It has been found that horses race more slowly and tire more quickly the more weight they are carrying. To avoid adding extra weight during the race, the racing saddle is made of lightweight materials. Weights for racing saddles normally range from a tiny 4 oz to a somewhat substantial 5 lb, with 1 lb or so being about average.
Conclusion On How Much Does A Horse Racing Saddle Weigh
Even if this kind of saddle deviates from the norm in terms of average saddle weight, it is still regarded as an English saddle. Its function is to increase the rider’s movement and provide closer contact with the horse.