Western saddle

The Western saddle is one of the most popular horse saddles on the market today. Western horse saddles can be divided into several different categories such as: material (leather, synthetic), intended use, tree type, fork style, production technique, and breed. Throughout this site we will go into more detail about the Western saddle and hopefully give you a better understanding of what is available to you.

Many people prefer a used Western saddle over a new saddle because it is already broken in for both horse and rider. Of course you will need to purchase a good Western saddle pad to put between the horse and saddle to ensure the utmost comfort for your horse. Nowadays you will find that many of the newer saddles you find online or in tack stores, have been made in India. Quantity is more important than quality on the production lines, so you simply can't count on getting a real high quality leather saddle. Take a look at some of the older saddles that are 15 - 30 years old and you will see a saddle made with attention to detail. You will notice beautiful, deep tooling designs on many of the older western saddles along with a high quality, thick and supple leather. You can expect to pay in the high hundreds or even thousands for a new saddle of that quality in today's world. So if you see an older, used saddle that catches your eye, don't hesitate to snatch it up.

Whether you decide to go with a new or used horse saddle, be sure to get one that serves its intended purpose. Are you going to be participating in barrel racing, cutting, roping, reining, ranch work, endurance riding, trail, or show? Believe it or not, there is a saddle designed for each of these activities. Many riders are involved in more than just one sport, and will therefore need a different Western saddle for each one.

Once you have chosen the type of Western saddle or saddles you will be needing, there are a few options you can choose from to customize your saddle to fit you and your horse. Details such as rigging position, gullet size, seat size, cantle height, smooth or roughout leather, horn style, color, stamping and tooling, and stirrup style, are just a few things you'll want to consider when making your decision.

You will find that your choices are virtually endless when it comes to shopping for a Western saddle, so keep some of the above pointers in mind when you're making your decision. Spending some time choosing the right saddle for you and your horse will bring you both many years of enjoyment.