A saddle is a supportive structure fastened to an animal’s back. It is supposed to hold a rider or other load. We are familiar with the saddle built for the horse’s back; but saddles are also fitted for other animals such as the camel, the donkey or other creatures. Good quality saddles like a leather English saddle has a sheepskin cover on the underside of the skirts to prevent chafing and rubbing on the horse. They provide a comfortable ride for both the rider and the horse.
The term ‘English saddle’ is a generic for different types of saddles. They are used for such events as show jumping, dressage, horse racing and polo. While they all look similar to the untrained eye, an English saddle is flatter in appearance. The difference in quality is in the “tree”. The tree of the English saddle is built of laminated layers of high quality wood reinforced with spring steel. Leather is stretched and molded around the tree. They provide some give with a minimum amount of flexibility.
SemiCritic Horse Saddles
Time and patience is needed when you are buying saddles. Certain things have to be considered both on and off the horse. Check the quality of the leather. Quality leather should feel smooth and supple but never spongy. Take the saddle’s fenders, side jockeys and skirt and bend them. Small cracks in the grain could mean overly dry leather. Check the material and construction of the tree.
Saddle fit is most important. The best saddle provides comfort for the rider as well as the horse. Check for comfort by hopping in and placing your feet in a natural riding position. The position of the saddle on the back, the contact of the panels against the horse’s back should be observed. Are the panels wide enough for good support? Check the length of the stirrup, making sure that they are long enough for you.
SemiCritic Horse Saddles
If you’re planning to learn the skill of horse riding, it is recommended you get a beginner saddle set. Pack saddles are complete sets of tack supplies. They are everything you need to put on a horse and start to learn riding it.
These include the basic jumping saddle with traditional deep seat and leather grain, leather jockeys, bits and bridle, stirrups, and reins. Choose the entry level saddle pack that is economical but made of good quality materials.
SemiCritic Horse Saddles
Horses are loveable creatures and horseback riding is a thrilling experience, especially for someone like me who was born and raised in the city. When riding a horse, I learned that it is important to make sure that the saddle is safely secured in place. It can be dangerous for the rider if the saddle isn’t fastened properly.
I’ve also learned that some “cowboys” can actually ride horses bareback without their horse saddles. Of course, this isn’t something I’d advise first timers though.
SemiCritic Horse Saddles