Bestsellers
Kentaur Saddles | Emmers Equestrian
Kentaur is a Czech saddle maker, established in 1991 in Prostějov, known for a sensible middle ground between budget and top-tier premium: solid, handcrafted construction at a price that doesn't require the very highest end of the market. The range at Emmers covers dressage, jumping, and all-purpose models, including a dedicated youth jumping saddle, built on elastic trees reinforced with laminated steel springs and forged headplates that come in several exchangeable widths.
That adjustable headplate is worth knowing about before you buy; it means a saddle fitter can change the tree width later as your horse's shape changes, rather than you needing to start again with a different saddle. Kentaur also tests its saddles on horses at its own factory stable before release, which fits the brand's generally practical, no-frills approach to saddle design.
The right saddle is essential for your horse’s comfort, freedom of movement and performance, and its fit can change as your horse’s shape and fitness develop. Whether you’re choosing a new saddle or checking your current one, discover the Emmers Equestrian Saddle Fitting Service for expert advice tailored to both horse and rider.
Tips for Choosing
- Choose dressage, jumping, or all-purpose based on your actual riding rather than price, since the panel and seat shaping genuinely differ between Kentaur's models for each discipline.
- Ask whether the model you're considering uses the exchangeable headplate system, and have a qualified saddle fitter confirm the width is right for your horse at purchase.
- If you're buying for a younger or lighter rider moving into jumping, check the dedicated youth model rather than assuming a standard adult saddle sized down will fit as well.
- Compare leather type across models; Kentaur uses a few different leathers, including a grippier, grained finish, so pick based on the feel and grip you actually want rather than assuming they're all the same.
- Expect this range to sit in the mid-to-premium bracket rather than entry-level or ultra-premium, so weigh it against both cheaper and pricier alternatives before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Kentaur different from budget or ultra-premium saddle brands?
It sits deliberately in between: solid, handcrafted construction and genuine materials at a price well below the top-tier premium brands, rather than competing at either extreme.
Can the fit be adjusted later if my horse changes shape?
Yes, many models use an exchangeable forged headplate system, so a saddle fitter can change the tree width without you needing an entirely new saddle.
Is there a Kentaur saddle suitable for a younger rider?
Yes, there's a dedicated youth jumping model built for that, rather than just a smaller adult saddle.
Are Kentaur saddles suitable for competition?
Yes, the range covers dressage, jumping and all-purpose saddles built for regular training and competition use.
Do these saddles still need professional fitting?
Yes, even with an adjustable headplate, a qualified saddle fitter should confirm and set the width correctly for your specific horse.
How does Kentaur test its saddles before release?
The company tests new designs on horses at its own factory stable before releasing them, which is part of how it maintains its practical, reliability-focused approach.
You'll find the Kentaur saddle range and accessories at Emmers Equestrian.