Styles of Horse Saddles

Saddlery is a precise craft, for there is a saddle to suit every need, whether for work, recreation or exhibition. Stirrups Dressage saddles, treeless saddles, English saddles and western saddles are among the varieties that are found within the equestrian world. stirrup leathers With each serving a specific purpose, they can be seen wherever horses are present.

The western saddle is the saddle that is synonymous with the cowboy of American lore who traditionally worked long hours on his horse as a cattle rancher. It comes from the saddle of the Spanish vaqueros, early horse trainers and cattle ranchers. Distinct for its high arching pommel and cantle and its fixed stirrups, the western saddle also has a horn, a piece used to tie up a roped cow while out on the range. Horse Rugs Western saddles can be seen today at the rodeo where barrel racers and ropers still sit atop them.

The English saddle stands in direct contrast. Although not limited to England, this saddle type is used in the English riding style which is found in most Olympic and equestrian competitions. The English saddle has no horn, it is lighter than the western variety, and in case the rider should fall, it comes with detachable stirrups. This saddle is designed to allow the horse the greatest amount of freedom to jump and run across rugged country, such as was required with fox hunting. English saddles can be seen in use today for show jumping, polo, horseracing and dressage.

Two other types of saddles are dressage saddles and treeless saddles. Translated as "training", dressage is a discipline that demonstrates the efficient yet seemingly effortless movement of the horse through exercises. With a deep seat and straight cut side flaps, dressage saddles are light and simple. This type of saddle gives riders very close contact and lets them cue the horse's movement with precision. Another saddle that allows for close contact is called a treeless saddle, made from fiberglass and leather. Known as bareback pads and good for horses with wide backs, there is a minimal amount of material between the horse and the rider.