How to Buy Used Saddles

Saddles are important to the safety and comfort of both the rider and the horse. Using the right saddle that fits the horse and rider is key. A used saddle can save you money if you know what you are looking for and what to avoid. Follow the tips below to buy a used saddle.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Size a used saddle properly to ensure the right fit for you and your horse. Check for seat room and seat width. There should be enough room between the cantle and the swell to sit comfortably. Likewise, the width of the seat must be considered to ensure proper fit for the rider. A petite rider needs a saddle with a smaller width for a snug ride and a larger rider requires a wide-width saddle to accommodate for comfort.
2. Create a wither tracing of the curvature of the back of the horse to compare to the curvature of the saddle. If you can't try the used saddle on your horse, use a flexible steal wire to trace the curvature of the horse to compare to the saddle. The used saddle must fit the horse properly to be worth your while.
3. Inspect the used saddle for deterioration. Check the billets (the part of the saddle that connects to the horse) for excessive wear and cracks. The seat of the saddle should not have any splits or worn out areas. The underside of the saddle--or the "panels"--shouldn't have rips or tears. The panels should be sufficiently stuffed with wool or another soft material to cushion the saddle against the back of the horse. The saddletree--the main body of the saddle--should offer slight flexibility but not so much that the saddle buckles when you attempt to bend it. Made of fiberglass, plastic or wood, the saddletree should be free of cracks to ensure the integrity of the saddle.
4. Observe the overall condition of the used saddle. If it's clean, looks well-maintained (properly oiled to prevent dryness) and the major components (billets, seat, saddletree and panels) are in good condition, the used saddle is a good deal. If the saddle hasn't been given proper care and the parts are deteriorated, don't buy the used saddle. Although some parts can be replaced, it might not be worth the money or effort.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy the right type of used saddle for your riding activity level. If you mainly partake in trail riding, buy a used Western-style saddle. If jumping is your forte, a used English saddle would be a better fit.
• Saddle seat sizing varies by manufacturer. Always try a saddle on your horse before you purchase to ensure the proper fit.