Before heading to any saddlery, and becoming too excited about buying a saddle, here is a brief overview of saddles, you need to know.
A saddle is structured support for a rider or a certain load it is fastened to the back of a horse, by a girth or cinch. In some rural areas, people still ride horses bareback wherein they can feel the movements of the horse, and comfortable riding them without any saddles or pads. In most cases, like riding competitions and leisure, the evolution of riding techniques like the English and Western-style requires the usage of saddles.
You can choose saddles made of synthetic or leather.
These are the advantages of saddles made of synthetic material.
- Low maintenance
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Weatherproof
- Durable
- Budget-friendly
Advantages of saddles made of leather.
- Attractive glossiness
- Enhanced grip
- Comfortable seat
- Durable
- A bit pricey
There are several types of saddles to choose from, but before buying one, you must first consult a master saddler to measure up your horse, and the activities your horse will be doing to ensure the right fit.
Saddle Types
a. General Purpose Saddle
Ideally, these saddles are for beginners to average riders, starting to have a grasp on various riding styles. Its usual design is with forwarding formed flaps, great for basic jumping, hacking, and hunting. Balancing while riding will not be a problem with this type of saddle, making it a perfect saddle for beginners.
b. Jumping Saddle
The saddle design has a flat seat similar to a curve with bigger flaps for leg support and padding at the front for stability and protection. The design also pushes the rider to a somewhat forward position the perfect for jumping over fences and obstacles.
c. Kids Saddle
There are saddles designed for children, mostly lightweight fit for ponies. To maintain balance while riding, some of the saddles have handles at the front.
d. Western Saddle
Popularized by cowboys, these saddles are made up of leather with intricate Western designs, with a horn at the front for balance. This is probably the most popular type of saddle with different variations on its name.
e. Racing Saddle
Saddles designed for jockeys, usually lightweight and small, fit for galloping and jumping activities of thoroughbred horses.
f. Dressage Saddle
Saddles fit for advanced riders that compete in flat-work tournaments. Designed with a deeper seat for improved balance, it is usually lightweight for the accuracy of movements.
g. Treeless Saddles
It is a type of saddle that is not recommended for everyone, delivering a close contact with the horses’ back.
Choosing the perfect saddle can be a pain in the head, especially with the broad assemblage of selections, you need to consult the best saddlery to help you. You can find the saddle experts that can provide you the best options, and high-quality saddles fit for your horse and its daily activities. They will also provide measurement services, different saddle products, and apparel. Guaranteed the best in this industry, providing great products to valued customers, their dedication in providing quality service, and products, must be notable through their years of operation and experience. Negotiate with the best saddlery in Sunshine Coast now.
Saddles 