The riding styles are frequently divided into: English, Dressage, and Stock or Western. But perhaps a more useful division would be a forward seat, balanced seat, saddle seat, and a stock seat. The saddle seat and stock seat can also be a balanced seat but you often see the rider sitting behind their own center of balance. The style of riding is greatly influenced by the saddle, as it positions the rider on the horse and effects the type aids that can be used. There are many versions of each type depending on what discipline, sport or job the horse and rider intend to perform. We'll discuss some of the types below.

This style typically uses an english style saddle. The style encompasses and is suited for the various sports and disciplines which require the horse to run fast and/or jump obstacles. The saddle is built with the flaps shifted forward and knee rolls to help stabilize the rider. It is also settled further forward on the horse's back in an effort to balance the rider over the horse's center of gravity, his withers. The weight of the rider over the withers (center of gravity) makes it easier for the horse to carry, and thusly able to run faster and jump higher. The rider sits in a forward position with the stirrups shorter than other styles of riding. It includes the hunt seat saddle, usually used by the enthusiast who rides that horse who trots and is involved in fox hunting, shows in the hunter division either on the flat or over fences. The type is suitable also for the jumping phases of eventing, as well as pleasure or trail riding.

The racing saddle is also considered a forward seat saddle, very forward to sit the jockey well over the horse's withers and a little in front of the horse's center of gravity to more easily propel his weight forward.