The English saddle, as we know it today, has undergone many transformations since its beginnings in the 18th century. During this period, the majority of classical dressage riders in Europe rode in high pommel and high cantle saddles which were built on a wooden frame. Based on a model which was used for cattle work, bull fighting, mounted combat and long-distance travel, it is still in use today, primarily at the Spanish Riding School.
Foxhunting in England resulted in a radical redesign of the base model. The sport necessitated travel, sometimes at high speeds, over fences, hedges, banks, ditches and other varying terrains, rendering the old saddle awkward and uncomfortable. The high cantle interfered as riders leaned back over the fence (this was common practice in the days prior to the development of forward seat riding), and the pommel got in the way, as well. Because of this, saddlers designed a saddle with a flat seat, very low pommel and cantle, and no padding under the leg. However, the stirrup bars were set forward and protruded, making it impossible for riders to keep their legs under their bodies.
As show jumping and eventing became more and more popular, the evolution of the English saddle continued. Also contributing to the redesign was the advent of forward seat riding. The shorter stirrup length necessitated a more forward flap, and the formerly protruding stirrup bars were recessed. Padding was placed under the flap, for extra security, and the waist was narrowed, resulting in the saddle we all know today.