A CC saddle, or Close Contact saddle, is a type of English saddle specifically designed to allow the rider to maintain a close feel with the horse while accommodating a forward, athletic riding position. It's a popular choice for disciplines that require agility and a specific rider posture.
Design and Features of a Close Contact Saddle
The fundamental design of a close contact saddle prioritizes direct communication between horse and rider. Key features include:
- Flatter Seat: Compared to a dressage or all-purpose saddle, the CC saddle has a flatter, more open seat that allows for easier movement and adjustments.
- Forward Flaps: The saddle flaps are positioned more forward to accommodate a rider's bent knee and shorter stirrup leathers, which are crucial for disciplines involving jumping or a more forward seat.
- Minimal Padding: The panels and seat often have less padding, contributing to the "close contact" feel by reducing the material between the rider and the horse.
- Shorter Stirrup Leathers: This design inherently encourages and accommodates the use of shorter stirrup leathers, enabling the rider to achieve a bent knee.
- Knee Rolls: Many CC saddles feature moderate knee rolls to offer support and stability for the rider's leg in a half-seat or two-point position.
Disciplines and Rider Position
Close contact saddles are ideally suited for hunt seat events due to their design which supports a dynamic riding style. They are commonly used in:
- Hunt Seat Equitation: Where the rider's form and position are judged.
- Hunter Under Saddle: Focusing on the horse's performance and manners, but with the rider in a correct hunt seat position.
- Fox Hunting: Demanding saddles that allow riders to navigate varied terrain and obstacles.
- Hunters and Jumpers: Disciplines that involve jumping over obstacles, where the rider needs to be out of the saddle in a two-point or half-seat position.
This type of saddle is engineered to accommodate a rider in a bent knee, shorter stirrup leathers, and a half-seat or two-point position, allowing the rider to move with the horse over fences or during faster work.
Why Choose a Close Contact Saddle?
Riders often choose CC saddles for several compelling reasons:
- Enhanced Communication: The "close contact" design allows the rider to feel the horse's movements more distinctly, enabling quicker and more subtle aids.
- Freedom of Movement: The design supports the rider's ability to maintain a half-seat or two-point, crucial for jumping and athletic maneuvers, without hindering the horse's stride.
- Discipline Suitability: They are specifically tailored for the demands of hunt seat and jumping disciplines, providing the correct balance and support.
- Comfort for Specific Riding Styles: Riders engaged in forward-seat disciplines find these saddles more comfortable and supportive for their riding style.
Key Characteristics at a Glance
For a quick overview, here's a table summarizing the main characteristics of a CC saddle:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seat Type | Flatter, more open to allow rider movement. |
| Flap Position | Forward-angled to accommodate bent knees and shorter stirrups. |
| Contact | Designed for minimal material between horse and rider, offering a "close feel." |
| Rider Position | Facilitates a half-seat or two-point position with bent knees and shorter stirrup leathers. |
| Primary Use | Hunt seat equitation, hunter under saddle, fox hunting, hunters, and jumpers. |
| Knee Rolls | Often present, providing light support and stability for the rider's leg. |
Choosing the Right CC Saddle
When selecting a close contact saddle, it's vital to consider both the horse's conformation and the rider's needs. Proper fit ensures comfort for the horse and allows the rider to maintain the correct, effective position. Consulting with an experienced saddle fitter is highly recommended to achieve an optimal fit for both horse and rider. For more general information on saddle types, you can explore resources like HorseSaddleShop's guide to English saddles.
