Horse riders need a western saddle, which is a part of the equipment necessary to have the right control. They help with the performance of a specific horse activity in many different ways. These entail barrel racing, roping, and trail riding. It will give you more convenience and comfort when you use such a saddle to connect with your horse. Moreover, it might lead you to participate in more competitions.
In this guide, you will find information about western saddles for sale, from advanced saddle features to comparisons like English vs Western saddle. You should understand, though, that you are responsible for the equipment you are getting if you want to be a good rider.
What Makes a Western Saddle Unique?
The Western saddle is undeniably unique. They are different from other types of saddles. The reason is as follows:
Design
The western saddles are comprised of several major components:
- A horn in front of the saddle
- A high back
- Wide foot holders
- A big seat area
Purpose
Years ago, these saddles were used by cowboys who fought and worked with cattle. Today they are used in a variety of competitions including rodeos and shows.
Comfort
They are for long-distance riding. They disperse the rider’s weight. People who sit down for a long time can use this kind of saddle for an even more pleasant experience than they would have had before.
Control
The idea of the saddle that’s designed in such a way will help riders keep their balance even if the horses move fast or turn quickly. This type of saddle is more associated with the style of riding, as it is better for trotting fast.
Basically, these saddles are special because they are sturdy, comforting, and riders may easily control them in all situations.
Types of Western Saddles
There are the main types that include:
1. Barrel Racing Saddles
These types of saddles have high backrests to help the driver keep balance during turns in racing events. While also having a good feeling of staying, it is light due to the design of the movable saddle. Lis is quite light.
2. Roping Saddles
Sandpaper, iron, and leather plates are used to modify this saddle for better performance. Also, it has a big horn in the front for lacing ropes. And it can hold up to a cow’s weight. These are ropes used by cowboys at rodeos.
3. Reining Saddles
Riders can be close to the horses by riding on such saddles. They are the simplest ones that do not block the rider’s movements. They are mostly used for spins and slides.
4. Show Saddles
Silver schematics are on this saddle, making it look very beautiful. They are employed in horse shows, as well as they are also used in the case of riding.
5. Trail Saddles
A number of these horse riding seats are specifically manufactured to accommodate riders for long journeys. They are usually quite comfortable even after several hours of riding. These are four types of long races.
The saddle is suited to the particular type of riding that a rider will take part in. People usually choose the saddle that they find best for what they are going to do.
Saddle Construction and Performance
Tree
The tree is the inside of the saddle. It may be made of wood or other man-made materials. The tree allows the saddle to get a proper fit onto the horse.
Seat
The area where the rider sits is called the seat. It is well-padded and has a special shape. A deeper seat leads to stability and thus, the saddle is not likely to shake a rider off.
Horn
It is mainly used to tie up the animal. However, it has to be physically strong and correctly positioned.
Skirts
These are designed to disseminate the pressure of the rider’s weight evenly across the horse’s back.
Riders who compete should always get saddles with good trees and high-quality leather. Saddles made of premium leather and those that are stitched very well tend to have a longer lifespan and exhibit a more beautiful appearance at shows.
Proper Saddle Fit for Horse and Rider
Proper saddle fit is one of the key points of sports. A saddle that is not fitted properly can create pain, bad behavior, or even injure the horse or rider. It can also damage the backbone, muscles, and other soft parts of the horse.
For the Horse
The saddle must be fitting to the contour of the horse’s back. Its border should be even with no pressure points at the top of the vertebrae of the horse and shoulders. Both parts of the saddle should be felt, placing pressure on both sides of the horse’s back in much the same way. The rider should use a special pad under the saddle to disperse the load and decrease the sharpness of the bumps.
For the Rider
There must be the correct size of the seat for comfort and good sitting. Feeling that it’s so small that you get squeezed very much. If too big, the rider becomes unable to handle the horse effectively in turns. When going for an expensive western saddle purchase, the best way to go is to have an expert fit it.
Western Saddle Pads
Western saddle pads are necessary because they enable the saddle to fit them well and also protect their backs. A good fitting pad can be used for the following two purposes:
- Lowering the degree of shock
- Correcting small troubles in the fit
- Eliminating the friction and pressure on the horse’s back
Some of the standard pads include:
- Felt pads
- Gel pads
- Memory foam pads
Shaped pads, to be put on the horse’s back
Selecting a western saddle pad
- Take a pad as thick as needed for the saddle
- A Cotton cloth can be the best material for both heat reduction and easy removal of the horse’s sweat.
- Userubbery-shaped pads made special for horses whose shoulder blades are high or whose backs are crooked.
English vs Western Saddle
People often want to know the best saddle for contests to be English or Western. The answer will be different according to the type of competition.
English Saddles
English saddles are suitable for sports such as jumping, which require a close fit for the horse. They are:
- Lighter
- Have smaller pads
- Allow for better leg signals
Western Saddles
These are best used for fast events and tasks where the rider needs to stay put during the agile horse’s movements. They are:
- Heavier
- Give more stability to the rider
- Spread pressure over a larger area of the horse’s back
For western running, such as reining or barrel racing, use a western saddle. For jumping or dressage, use an English saddle. Riders who do both types should decide on their main event before going to buy the saddle.
Maintenance Tips to Maximize Saddle Life
One of the most important things to keep your saddle in good shape is to treat it carefully. Here are some tips:
- Clean with a moist cloth every ride
- Use leather oil every month
- Store it in a dry, cool place and avoid putting it on the ground
- Occasionally check the tack for damages or loose pieces
A new western-saddle that is well kept can last between fifteen and twenty-five years and even longer. These are the best long-term riding stats I’ve ever noticed.
Where to Buy High-Quality Western Saddles
If purchasing a saddle, you can purchase it from experienced suppliers who are knowledgeable about horse gear. Saddle Bay offers western saddles for sale in different types. They make it so that the saddles are not only effective but also comfortable and durable classic wear items. Besides, Saddle Bay also offers different saddles for different horse events such as barrel racing, roping, and shows.
In horse contests, well-presented gear is a critical item in the equation of events. To achieve this, fit and quality of western saddle and pad are vital. The performance can be improved for both horse and rider if you take your time to understand the parts.
