Monoflap Dressage Saddle: The Guide to Comfort and Performance

For riders aiming to enhance their connection with their horse and improve performance in the arena, the monoflap dressage saddle is becoming an increasingly popular choice.

Favoured for its close-contact design and minimalist profile, this saddle style offers both comfort and precision, making it ideal for serious dressage riders.

What is a Monoflap Dressage Saddle?

A monoflap dressage saddle is designed with a single flap rather than the traditional two-layer flap system. This allows for a much closer feel between the rider’s leg and the horse’s side, providing more effective communication.

The monoflap saddle is generally lighter and tends to give the rider a more secure position.

The streamlined design not only benefits the rider but also minimises bulk on the horse’s back, allowing for freer shoulder movement and better overall comfort.

Why Choose a Monoflap Saddle for Dressage?

The primary appeal of a monoflap dressage saddle lies in the improved contact and stability it provides. Dressage is all about precision, balance, and harmony between horse and rider, and the monoflap’s construction supports these goals.

Because there’s less bulk between you and the horse, you can fine-tune your aids with subtle leg movements and maintain a better seat.

Additionally, most monoflap saddles feature external knee blocks, which help guide the rider’s leg into the correct position without restricting flexibility.

This combination of structure and freedom allows for optimal posture and better rider biomechanics, essential when performing collected movements or advanced lateral work.

Fitting Considerations:

Like any saddle, the monoflap dressage saddle must fit both the horse and the rider perfectly. For the horse, look at the width of the gullet, the shape of the panels, and how the saddle distributes pressure along the back.

Like all of the Cavaletti Collection saddles, the Cavaletti Collection monoflap models come with a changeable, adjustable gullet bar. They are also all wool flocked, which can be altered to suit the horse’s changing shape.

For the rider, seat size and flap length are key. The position of the stirrup bars can also affect how naturally your leg hangs, so it’s worth testing a few models if possible.

Comfort in the seat and security in your leg position are both essential for developing a consistent and effective dressage position.

Maintenance and Care:

While beautifully crafted, monoflap saddles may require more frequent maintenance due to the finer leather used and the minimalist structure.

Regular conditioning, proper storage, and periodic checks by a professional saddler will keep your saddle in excellent condition for years to come.

Is It Right for You?

If you’re looking to deepen your connection with your horse, improve your seat, and maximise performance in the arena, a monoflap dressage saddle could be the perfect investment.

Its design promotes elegance, balance, and harmony—core principles of classical dressage riding.

With the right fit and care, this modern saddle can offer a significant upgrade to your training experience, allowing both horse and rider to perform at their best.

Our team at Cavaletti Collection is ready to help you make the right saddle choice. If you wish to contact us with any questions or seek advice, we look forward to chatting with you.