Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- 8-foot Lead Rope
- Western Saddles
- Halter
- Saddle Pads
Step1
Know that horses come in all shapes and sizes. You'll need to find a saddle that properly fits your horse. It's best to bring your horse to a saddlery so you can fit several saddles at a time.
Step2
Select a saddle that fits snugly over the horse's withers, shoulders and back without digging in.
Step3
Set the saddle on top of a saddle pad without snugging the cinch down. There should be no gaps around the entire skirt of the saddle.
Step4
Tighten down the cinch to secure the saddle to the horse.
Step5
Slide your hand in between the horse and the saddle pad. You should be able to move your fingers all the way around the saddle without forcing it.
Step6
Look to see that the saddle doesn't hit the horse's withers.
Step7
Choose a saddle that fits properly over a saddle that doesn't fit as well but is designed for the type of riding you'll be doing. Fit comes before function.
Comments
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Make sure the saddle fits the rider too, or there's no use in buying it. Nobody wants to ride in an uncomfortable saddle
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Not only must the saddle fit your horse, but your horse must fit the saddle color. Dark-colored saddles stand out against light horses, while light colors stand out against dark. Medium-leather colors are the best because they will fit any horses' colors.