Things You'll Need:
- 8-foot Lead Rope
- Western Saddles
- Halter
- Saddle Pads
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Step 1
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.
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Step 2
Select a saddle that fits snugly over the horse's withers, shoulders and back without digging in.
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Step 3
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.
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Step 4
Tighten down the cinch to secure the saddle to the horse.
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Step 5
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.
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Step 6
Look to see that the saddle doesn't hit the horse's withers.
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Step 7
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
Lanzera said
on 11/16/2008 FYI: I found a lot of horse saddle related stuff to buy here: http://www.buyhorsesaddle.com
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.