The term VSD originates from Germany, meaning "multipurpose" and essentially describing a more versatile dressage saddle. The VSD saddle is designed to sit somewhere between a dressage and general purpose saddle. VSD is short for 'Very Slightly Dressage'. Some brands such as Kent and Masters, also call this a GPD meaning 'General Purpose Dressage'. The side flaps are cut slightly straighter than a standard GP saddle but not as straight as a typical dressage saddle. They are designed predominantly for flat-work, hacking and dressage but are still forward cut enough to do some small jumps. A GPD saddle is the same as a VSD Saddle, but different saddle brands will use one term or the other.
Try a VSD Saddle
If you would like to try a saddle, The Saddle Bank offer a great selection available for UK trial, with shipping offered worldwide.
Browse our current VSD saddles here.
Brands that feature VSD/GPD saddles
Kent and Masters GPD
This saddle features a straighter cut panel and longer flaps than the Universal Kent and Masters GP saddle, to enable the rider to lengthen their leg when doing dressage and flat-work.
Bates VSD
Similar to the Bates All Purposes. However, the saddle flap is cut straight, with the stirrup bar positioned further back, to enable a dressage-like fit with a longer, straight leg.
Albion K2
Albion Position their VSD as the perfect everyday saddle which can be used for showing too! As with all models in the K2 range it features a fixed knee block for support.
Fairfax - GPD
The Fairfax GPD offers a straighter-cut flap than the GP saddle to allow the rider to comfortably drop their stirrups and ride with a longer leg position which is more suitable for dressage and schooling activities.
Black Country - GPD
The main feature of the GPD is the straight-cut flap which aligns well cosmetically as a show saddle and also provides support when riding dressage. The straightness of the panel gives maximum freedom of movement behind the shoulder, making it particularly suitable for native breeds, cobs and wide horses.
A wide range of saddles are available here to try.
Learn more about how saddles should fit….
If you are a horse owner or rider and would like to learn more about saddle fitting, and how the saddle can impact your horses performance and welfare, click on the link below.
