Hermès saddles are known around the world. They are beautiful, well-made, and very expensive. 

Some riders dream of owning one, while others wonder why the price is so high. These saddles can cost as much as a small car. 

But what makes them so special? Is it the leather, the design, or the brand name? 

In this blog, we’ll look at the Hermès saddle price. We’ll also explore what you’re really paying for and if it’s worth it.

What is a Hermès Saddle?

A Hermès saddle is a high-end saddle made by the French luxury brand Hermès. It’s designed for serious riders who want comfort, style, and top performance. 

Each saddle is handmade by skilled craftsmen using high-quality leather. Hermès offers different models for jumping, dressage, and general riding. 

The saddles are perfect fits and of long-lasting quality. Many riders say they feel balanced and secure when using one. 

Because of the brand’s history and attention to detail, Hermès saddles are often seen as some of the best in the world.

Read also: What is a Gullet on a Saddle? 

Types of Hermes Saddle

Hermès offers a range of saddles designed for different riding styles and needs. Each model has its own unique features, from classic designs to modern performance builds. 

Below is a quick guide to help you understand the most popular Hermès saddles.

Hermès Cavale Saddle

Cavale speaks to serious jumpers who want both grip and freedom. With a deep, secure seat and a close-contact design, it helps riders stay balanced over fences and tight turns. 

This saddle isn’t bulky. It’s built to move with you. 

Crafted from supple leather and designed to reduce pressure points, it’s a favorite in show rings and training arenas alike. 

Riders love the precision it offers. It’s not just about the look; it’s about how effortlessly it performs under pressure.

Hermès Essentielle Saddle

Essentielle blends function with elegance. It’s designed for versatility and is perfect for training days and competition runs. 

The seat is moderately deep, giving enough support without locking the rider in. Whether you’re flat schooling or navigating jump courses, it adapts well. 

This model can be customized to various horse shapes, making it ideal for riders with multiple mounts. 

It’s reliable, balanced, and beautifully made. If you need one saddle to do it all, this could be the one.

Hermès Allegro Saddle

Dressage riders will feel right at home in the Allegro. With its deep seat and long, straight flaps, it places your body in the correct position. 

Everything about this saddle encourages stillness and control. The balance is spot-on, which makes even advanced movements feel more fluid. 

It’s handcrafted with high-end leather that molds to both horse and rider over time. Whether you’re schooling or showing, the Allegro supports your form without getting in your way.

Hermès Vivace Saddle

If you want close contact and freedom in the dressage arena, Vivace delivers. Unlike more structured dressage saddles, this one offers a softer, more open seat. 

It allows the rider to feel more of the horse while still offering enough support to stay aligned. The design is elegant and light, ideal for riders who value connection and subtle cues. 

It’s especially loved by those who find traditional dressage saddles too restrictive. A refined choice for expressive riding.

Hermès Steinkraus Saddle

Steeped in tradition, the Steinkraus model honors classic jumping style. It features a flatter seat and a minimalist design that gives experienced riders more freedom to adjust their position mid-course. 

Named after Olympian William Steinkraus, it’s favored by purists who appreciate simplicity and balance over extra padding. 

The close-contact feel helps you stay in sync with your horse. If you’re confident in your seat and want nothing between you and your ride, the Steinkraus fits that mission perfectly.

Hermès Daila Jump Saddle

Modern riders who crave flexibility will appreciate the Daila. It’s built for speed and movement, with a forward-cut flap and an open seat. 

This design helps riders stay balanced through tricky lines and high-intensity courses. It’s sleek, bold, and shaped to meet the demands of today’s jumpers. 

The Daila doesn’t just follow trends, it helps set them. Every detail supports quick reactions and clean takeoffs. 

If your riding is fast-paced and competitive, this saddle was made with you in mind.

Rare Authentic Vintage Saddle

Some Hermès saddles are no longer in production, but they haven’t lost their charm. 

Rare vintage models are handmade gems, often built with thick, durable leather that has aged beautifully. These saddles tell stories, each scratch and patina marking years of use and care. 

Riders and collectors seek them out not just for performance, but for their artistry. They’re reminders of a time when every piece was crafted without compromise. 

Owning one is like riding history.

La Selle Saddle

Every now and then, Hermès releases a unique piece simply called “La Selle.” These saddles don’t belong to a specific line—they’re special commissions or exclusive designs that stand alone. 

With top-tier leather, hand-finished details, and sometimes custom engraving, they represent the peak of what Hermès can create. 

No two are quite the same. If you find one, you’re looking at a collector’s item that likely won’t come around again.

Leather Australian Saddle

Though not a standard Hermès offering, leather Australian-style saddles have appeared in vintage collections. 

Built for long-distance riding, these saddles feature deep seats and extra support around the legs.

Originally designed for ranch work and endurance, they prioritize rider security over speed. If Hermès ever made or sold one, it would be richly detailed and crafted from premium leather. 

This saddle is ideal for those who spend hours in the saddle and appreciate comfort over flash.

Antique Hermès

Saddles in this category are rare finds, often dating back to the early 20th century or earlier. 

They carry the marks of a different era, when riding was less about competition and more about tradition. 

These pieces are collected not just for function, but for their legacy. If well-preserved, they can be displayed like works of art. 

For riders, they offer a glimpse into the roots of equestrian luxury.

Read also: Different Types of Saddles. 

How Much Does a Hermès Saddle Cost?

​Hermès saddles are well crafted with luxurious materials and bespoke designs, which contribute to their premium pricing. 

The cost of a new Hermès saddle ranges from approximately $7,900 to $9,000, depending on the model and customization options chosen. ​

For example, the Hermès Cavale saddle, designed for high-end show jumping, is approximately $7,800. ​

Pre-owned Hermès saddles are available at lower prices, depending on their condition and model. Listings on platforms like eBay show prices ranging from $950 for older models to $9,500 for newer or limited-edition saddles. ​

Each Hermès saddle is handcrafted by a single artisan, requiring approximately 30 hours of meticulous work. 

The process involves over 100 measurements to ensure a perfect fit for both horse and rider.

While the investment is substantial, many equestrians consider Hermès saddles to be among the finest available.

Why Are Hermès Saddles So Expensive?

Hermès saddles are expensive for several reasons, each related to quality, craftsmanship, and brand prestige. 

Here’s a breakdown in simple, clear terms:

1. Handmade by experts

Every Hermès saddle is crafted by a single artisan who is trained for years. It takes around 30 hours to complete one saddle. 

Each piece is stitched by hand with extreme care, ensuring a flawless finish and lasting strength.

2. Premium leather

Hermès uses only the finest leather, carefully selected for texture, durability, and comfort. 

The leather is soft, breathable, and molds perfectly to both horse and rider over time. This high-quality material doesn’t come cheap.

3. Custom fit for horse and rider

These saddles aren’t one-size-fits-all. Hermès takes over 100 measurements to create a saddle that fits both horse and rider perfectly. 

This level of customization adds to the cost but also ensures a better riding experience.

4. Long-lasting build

Hermès saddles are built to last for decades if cared for properly. Many riders pass them down through generations. 

The long life of the saddle means you’re investing in something that won’t need replacing soon.

5. Brand prestige

Hermès is one of the most luxurious and recognized brands in the world. Like their handbags, the name alone adds value. 

Owning a Hermès saddle is not just about riding. It’s a symbol of status, style, and heritage.

6. Attention to detail

Every detail is carefully designed, from the stitching to the cut of the leather. The result is a saddle that looks stunning and performs beautifully. 

That level of detail takes time, and that time costs money.

7. Limited availability

Hermès doesn’t mass-produce its saddles. Each one is made to order or in small batches. 

This exclusivity keeps demand high and supply limited, which naturally increases the price.

Comparing Hermès Saddles to Other High-End Brands

Can You Buy a Used Hermès Saddle?

Yes, you can buy a used Hermès saddle. Many riders choose this option to save money and still enjoy top-quality gear. 

Pre-owned Hermès saddles are often found online through tack shops, Facebook groups, and resale websites.

Before buying, check the serial number under the flap. Make sure the stitching is tight and even. 

Also look closely at the leather. Avoid saddles with deep cracks or tears. 

It’s also important to check the saddle tree. If it’s damaged, the saddle may be unsafe. 

Always try to match the saddle to your horse. Since Hermès saddles are often custom-fit, it’s good to involve a saddle fitter.

Buying a used Hermes saddle is a smart move. You get excellent craftsmanship and comfort at a lower price. 

Just take your time, buy from a trusted seller, and ask lots of questions. A well-cared-for Hermès saddle can last for many years.

Are Hermès Saddles Worth the Price?

Hermès saddles are expensive, no doubt about it. But for many riders, they’re worth every penny. 

These saddles offer a rare mix of beauty, comfort, and top performance. Each one is made by hand, using premium leather that feels better with age. 

The fit is highly customized, which helps the horse and the rider move more naturally.

Many professional riders trust Hermès for high-level competition. Their balance and support can improve their rides, especially in jumping or dressage. 

They’re also built to last for decades if properly cared for. That long life adds value over time.

There’s also the resale factor. Unlike many saddles that drop in value fast, Hermès saddles often hold their price. Even second-hand remain in demand.

Of course, not everyone needs a Hermès. If you’re a casual rider or just starting out, there are more affordable options that still offer good quality. 

But if riding is your passion, and you want a saddle that feels like it was made just for you, Hermès is worth the investment.

Alternatives for Budget-Conscious Riders

Not everyone can spend thousands on a Hermès saddle, and that’s okay. There are plenty of great alternatives that offer comfort, quality, and style without the luxury price tag. 

The saddles that may not have the Hermès name but are still trusted by riders around the world are: 

1. Bates saddles

2. Pessoa saddles

3. Wintec saddles

4. Collegiate saddles

5. Used high-end saddles

6. Financing or leasing options

Hermes Saddle Price: Conclusion

Hermès saddles are more than a riding gear. They’re a mix of art, luxury, and performance. 

The high price comes from expert craftsmanship, top-quality leather, and custom fit. While not everyone needs a Hermès, many riders believe it’s worth the cost. 

If it’s out of your budget, there are great alternatives that still offer comfort and support. 

Whether you go for a new, used, or a different brand, the most important thing is fit. A good saddle should work for both you and your horse.