Abdulmalek Bahabri

Horse Saddle

How to Choose the Right Saddle for Your Horse

Horseback riding is full of fun and pleasure. The correct saddle is one of the most significant pieces of horse riding attire. Beneath are some points, which would help you selecting the right saddle for your horse–

Investigate about the type of saddle you need. There are different kinds of saddles available in the market, which includes- show saddles, dressage saddles, hunting, general, and western saddles. Your selection depends on what type of riding you do. The general or western saddles are most popular saddles for frivolous riding. Inquire about a few things from the shopkeeper when you go to buy a saddle such as the right tree size, the size bar you need, the material of the tree, etc.

The correct measurements are necessary for your saddle to fit correctly. If you think that any saddle will fit on your horse, you are mistaken. The second delusion in new riders mind is that they should buy the saddle that fits to their body type only but the fact is that it first has to be fit for your horse. A small saddle will not be fit for a big horse and similarly too big saddle will not fit properly on the small horse.

The budget is of course a very important factor to think over. If your pockets don’t allow for a new saddle you can also purchase a used one. However, the new saddles may be most comfortable for your horse but a fine used saddle can also be a good choice provided it fits properly. If you are still a learner, then a used saddle is the best choice. The different prices of the saddles are according to the material used in making it. The leather saddles are generally more expensive than the saddles made through other materials.

Get a one-inch thick pad or a blanket to keep under the saddle. Place the saddle over it. After tightening check thoroughly that it is not pinching your horse or is too tight on any body part of your horse. Check whether you can slide three fingers beneath the saddletree. The saddle must not be too long and excessively far up on the facade of your horse’s body. Confirm that the stirrups are lynching uniformly and the saddle is level.

When you are now sure that the saddle correctly fits your horse then consider your own saddle fit requirements, too. Your horse may feel okay but if the saddle is not fit for you, you might not have a pleasant ride. You may try sitting in some saddles at the shop or may try it on your horse first. It is up to your own preference. Before paying for it make sure that the width and the depth is fit for your seat. Saddle shops generally have the charts showing the ideal measurements of saddles according to your height and weight. You can select an ideal saddle for you following that chart. Now you are all set to saddle up your horse and have a delightful ride!



Horse Saddle