We Know: How to Buy a Western Horse SaddleWhat is a Western Saddle?A Western saddle differs from an English design in many ways. The saddle horn, traditionally where cowboys stored their lassos, is the most obvious difference. Western saddles are specially designed to keep both horse and rider comfortable over long periods of time How do You Get a Proper Fit?The best way to buy a saddle, is to measure both you and your horse. Visit a saddler's shop, a professional saddle maker. Put a saddle pad on your horse and try on several saddles. See which one suits you, and fits both you and your horse. A proper fit for your horse means that the saddle fits snugly over your horse's withers, or the highest part of the horse's back, the ridge line meeting the shoulder. The saddle should also fit across the shoulders and back without digging in. How do You Check Your Cinching?When you place each saddle on top of a saddle pad, don't snug the cinch down. Inspect the area around the saddle skirt. There should be no gaps. Tighten down the cinch and stick your hand in between the horse and the saddle pad. Slide your hand around. Your fingers should be free to move all around the saddle without force. What is Most Important When Choosing a Saddle?Choose a saddle that's designed for the type of riding you'll be doing. Try several saddles for comfort. If possible, take your horse out for a test ride with the saddle. Carefully evaluate it. Be alert to all areas of your body that makes contact. How do You Make the Final Decision?The cost of saddles can range from a couple hundred dollars to thousands. Remember that a good saddle will last for years and spare both you and your horse from unnecessary injury. There are many good saddles that cost between $400 and $800 dollars. |
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