It’s easy to measure a western saddle’s seat size.

Use a retractable tape measure. Start the tape measure behind the swell and stretch it across the seat to the front of the cantle.  That measurement is the seat size.

How to Choose Your Ideal Seat Size

When you’re trying to decide if a certain seat size will fit you, you should consider the cantle height and angle before making up your mind. These tips will help you pick the perfect seat size.

4″ – 5″ cantle: provides back support and will make you sit more in the middle of the saddle seat; may require you to choose a 1/2″ size larger because it sits you more upright depending on the cantle angle

Less than 4″  cantle: lets you sit more relaxed with the seat having a more open feel

If you can sit in the saddle to see how it feels, that’s always best. Often times most riders (especially trail riders), feel better in a saddle that gives a little extra room rather than feeling too snug. An exception is for speed events when those riders typically like their saddle seats to fit snug.