How to Use an Aussie Saddle
The Australian Saddle is one of the three major styles of saddles. The design of the western saddle is attributed to the American west, while the English saddle has European and English origins. The Australian saddle has roots in . . . well . . .Australia. The Australian saddle was based on the English saddle but was modified by the early settlers of Australia to strengthen the saddle and add to the comfort of both the horse and rider. Australian saddles are available with or without a horn.
Instructions
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Using an Australian Saddle
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Saddle the horse. An Australian saddle sits further forward on the horse than a western saddle. The pommel, the front portion of the seat of the saddle, should sit above the withers of the horse. Australian saddles also use a different girth system than western saddles.
The girth, the strap that goes around the belly of the horse and holds the saddle to the animal is attached to the billets or straps sewn to the saddle. Also attached to the girth is the overgirth. This strap goes around the top of the saddle and holds the saddle to the horse even if the billets break.
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2
Adjust the stirrup leathers. The stirrups sit further forward on a Australian saddle than on a western saddle. This places the riders feet forward of their hips. This results in a more balanced weight distribution and should be more comfortable for both the horse and the rider.
The length of the stirrup should be adjusted so the front of the thigh is about three quarters of an inch from the poleys. The poleys are the pads at the front of the saddle on each side of the pommel. They are one of the most obvious differences between an Australian saddle and other types.
Australian stirrup leathers are mounted on stirrup bars, metal brackets, on the saddle tree or framework. The back of the stirrup bar is open, this allows the stirrup leather to slide out of the bar if the rider is thrown but has a foot hung up in the stirrup, which prevents the rider from being dragged.
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3
Climb aboard and ride. When walking or trotting the rider keeps his feet forward and rides deep in the saddle. As the horse speeds up the rider can slide forward in the saddle. At a full gallop the rider can lean forward into a jockey-like position. The rider is braced against the poleys to maintain a secure seat.
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Tips & Warnings
Australian saddles are lighter than western saddles and offer a more secure seat than an English saddle. They are used by some endurance riders and in some performance horse events for this reason.
