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Parts of the Saddle and Bridle

Test your skills on labeling the parts of the saddle and bridle for both English and western riding! Fill in each part on the diagrams, then check your work with the answer key below.

These illustrations are reprinted with permission of the Certified Horsemanship Association and illustrator Susan Harris. They are part of Level 1 of the
CHA Composite Horsemanship Manual, which provides a complete program for all levels of riders, including written tests and riding test patterns at the end of each level. The levels are also sold separately in individual manuals. To purchase, please visit https://cha.horse/shop-educational-manuals.
Photo by Kimberlee Bray/Shutterstock

Western Bridle

Illustration by Susan Harris/Courtesy Certified Horsemanship Association

Western Saddle

Illustration by Susan Harris/Courtesy Certified Horsemanship Association

Answer Key



Bridle: 1. Shaped Earpiece; 2. Crownpiece; 3. Throatlatch; 4. Rein; 5. Curb Bit; 6. Cheek Piece; 7. Curb Strap
Saddle: 1. Gullet; 2. Horn; 3. Pommel; 4. Swell; 5. Seat; 6. Cantle; 7. Rear Jockey; 8. Concho; 9. Saddle Strings; 10. Fender; 11. Rear Cinch Strap; 12. Stirrup; 13. Long Latigo; 14. Cinch; 15. Short Latigo; 16. Seat Jockey; 17. Latigo Keeper

Photo by Anastasija Popova/Shutterstock

English Bridle

Illustration by Susan Harris/Courtesy Certified Horsemanship Association

English Saddle

Illustration by Susan Harris/Courtesy Certified Horsemanship Association

Answer Key



Bridle: 1. Crownpiece; 2. Throatlatch; 3. Cheek Piece; 4. Reins; 5. Snaffle Bit; 6. Cavesson (Noseband); 7. Browband
Saddle: 1. Gullet; 2. Pommel; 3. Seat; 4. Cantle; 5. Panel; 6. Skirt; 7. Pad; 8. Flap; 9. Stirrup Leather; 10. Stirrup Iron; 11. Girth; 12. Knee Roll; 13. Stirrup Bar Or Safety Latch; Under Flap: 14. Buckle Guard; 15. Billet

This article about parts of a saddle and bridle for English and western riding appeared in the January/February 2020 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers.

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