Which part of the saddle presses against the horse's back?

• A. The panels
• B. The flaps
• C. The stirrup leather
• D. The cantle

Answer: (A)

The panels are the part of the saddle that press directly against the horse's back. They are the padded sections under the saddle tree that cushion and distribute the rider’s weight as the horse moves, helping to avoid pressure points and fit the horse’s topline. The flaps are the sides where the rider’s legs rest and do not contact the horse’s back. The stirrup leather is the strap that holds the stirrup and runs along the side of the saddle; it isn’t meant to press on the horse’s back. The cantle is the rear edge of the saddle seat and also doesn’t contact the horse.