The main problem is the width of the back. Being draft horses, they’re build big and broad. Trying to straddle one is going to be an effort.

I think percherons are good?

You will hear much debating on this subject, as all draft owners think that their breeds is the ‘best’. I don’t think there is any ‘better’ draft for riding, it just depends on what you want to do. Draft horses aren’t necessarily the best for riding because of their huge, broad backs (which will be hard to fit with a saddle, but it is quite possible) and don’t go as ‘fast’ but they are just as capable of carrying a human as any other breed.

From Paula on, I found this useful information-
“Draft horses do not develop like a QH, due to the sheer size difference,their bones are slower to mature, and the spine does not fully close until the fifth year. That in mind, you may want to wait to back them.

You can start as soon as they hit the ground on good ground manners, leading, bathing, toeing, getting ready for the blacksmith, although most will use stocks on a draft horse. Teach them to load, lead, lunge, long line and drive. Spend time with them doing anything just being around them.

Yes people ride them, and they are sweet wonderful versatile horses,
the only limit on what you can do, is your time and imagination.

If you want to try to ride the seventeen year olds, I say why not, if they are in good heath and willing, they would love the attention and the feeling of being useful.”

I have heard very nice things about Gypsy Vanner Horses. The ideal Gypsy Vanner is intelligent, kind, and docile.

Shires are typically very calm and good-natured, and willing to work.

Clydesdales are becoming popular riding horses nowadays. According to clydesusa.com, “Many owners compete in shows next to more typical riding horses. The Clydesdales are very easy to train and their great style is a hit in the show ring. They also make exceptional trail horses due to their calm disposition.”

Belgins are also starting to become riding horses. Here is some more on the Belgian temperament-.

Percherons are very people-oriented and affectionate because they supposedly spent lots of time with horsemen who treated them like family. Many people cross Percheron’s with TBs which creates the Percheron, which is known to be an incredible jumper and fox-hunter.
A woman named Margaret Kaiser bought a Percheron named Cottonwood Flame who went on to become a Grand Prix dressage horse and a FEI champ. Percheron’s can come in more of a slender version used for dressage.

Fresians are both easygoing and magnificint. After some breeding, a type of Fresian was developed in which the resulting horse had lighter bone and build. They have been describe as “fun to ride, and comfortable” in the March 2004 issue of Horse Illustrated.

Here are some links to information you might find useful.

I hope I helped you!

Allygirl

I have a Shire mare that I ride in a dressage saddle but I also ride her bareback. She is a dream either way.

What is your intended purpose..trail, dressage?? After you decide, the secret is to buy tack that fits properly. There are several companies that make saddles with draft trees.

If your horse is young as Allygirl pointed out - you want to wait until they are 4+ to saddle and even then - with work muscles and physical structure will change and adjustments will be necessary.