Saddles

It doesn't matter if you are a rodeo king or a casual rider if you plan on riding a horse. Proper gear, application and execution is important to ensure the safety of you and the animal. The western…

Bling may be the rage on Rodeo Drive but it has also found its way into the rodeo arena. Riders are using fancy silver conchos, sometimes adorned with rhinestones and crystals, to bling up their…

When you take your horse out for a trail ride or compete in a horse show, your safety depends on your saddle and bridle. A saddle that constantly slips back is uncomfortable for your horse and…

Cattle roping is done as a part of a ranch hand's everyday work. It is also done in the fiercely competitive sport of rodeo where big dollars can be won and lost. The tools for both the working cowboy…

Whether you are competing in the local rodeo or just working cattle around the ranch, you need to secure your rope properly. The saddle horn on a roping saddle is specially designed to hold a lasso,…

The Tex Tan name is one of the most highly regarded in the world of western saddles. Each Tex Tan saddle is stamped with a unique serial number, making it easy for saddle shoppers to know that they're…

Tying a calf, also called calf-roping, is the process of lassoing, dropping and tying the legs of a calf. It is a practice that is still performed by ranchers and cowboys today as a recreational…

Apart from rodeo competitions, there are a number of reasons why a calf may need to be caught. It may be sick and need to be taken to a veterinarian, it may require branding or it may have simply run…

A hog-tie is used in tie-down or calf-roping rodeo events. In such an event, a cowboy on horseback pursues and ropes a calf. The cowboy dismounts and flanks the calf, putting it on its side on the…

Saddles are beautiful, intricate and make riding horses more enjoyable. The work that goes into making an Arabian saddle is very similar to the work of making a saddle for any horse breed. However,…

No matter what style of riding you prefer or which equine sports you compete in, you rely on your saddle to keep you safe and secure. But that safety and security can be compromised when your saddle…

Western saddles come in many different varieties, from heavily polished silver show saddles designed to catch the eye, to lightweight barrel racing saddles designed for security and speed. Roping…

Riding a horse for extended periods of time can be difficult without a pack or saddle bag. These packs let you carry items, such as water, phones and snacks. By adding a saddle bag to your horse you…

A flex tree saddle features bars that are more flexible than those of a standard wooden tree, meaning the saddle can flex and conform to the horse's back. While the flexibility provided by a flex tree…

Quarter horse bars form part of the tree of a Western saddle. The word "tree" relates to the frame on which the saddle is built. Western saddles are more forgiving in fit than English saddles, but…

Tying your rope to your saddle after roping a calf is called "dallying." Dallying involves looping your rope three times around the saddle horn to secure the just-roped calf to your saddle. The dally…

Western saddles originated in the western United States and Mexico. They were used by vaqueros and cowboys who spent many hours riding horses and working cattle. The saddles are designed to withstand…

Saddle bags are shaped pouches designed to sit either in front of or behind the saddle. They are typically made from leather, canvas or heavy duty nylon. You can make your own saddlebag or repair an…

Whether you compete on the rodeo circuit, attend local roping events or spend every day on the open range, you need to attach the lariat to your saddle properly. The western roping saddle is designed…

The term "English riding" refers to the fact that the horse wears an English saddle, which is smaller than a Western saddle and does not have a horn. The horse also wears an English bridle and is…

Cowboys use leather straps to secure objects on horses. The most common leather strap is the one used to tie the cinch to the saddle. This adjustable knot works with pliable leather. It is easy to…

Saddle bags are a useful piece of equipment for horse owners. On long trail rides, they are a practical way of carrying drinks and spare clothing; on shorter rides, they can safely hold cell phones if…

Getting out into the wilderness and exploring new territory is an exciting adventure. Packing in your gear with pack animals allows you to carry more gear and go further into the wilderness than…

Horse and wheeled vehicles ruled 19th century roads, farms and cities. If you weren't on foot or horseback, on land you traveled by horse and buggy, mule and dogcart, team of six and stagecoach or…

Saddles are an expensive investment, and can be easily marked or damaged. A saddle cover will keep your saddle clean and dust-free, and help to protect it against rain splashes that can mark the…

Bars, which are built into the underside of a western saddle, help distribute the combined weight of the saddle and rider evenly across the back area of a horse. These bars run the length of the…

Cordura is the brand name of a nylon, all-weather, highly durable fabric made by Invista. The fabric is often used in place of leather for some -- or all -- of the components of a saddle. Cordura…

No matter what breed of horse you own or what style of riding you prefer, having top quality tack is important. A well-made saddle can last for many decades, while a poorly made saddle can wear out in…

Having a saddle bag gives you the freedom to bring along essential items when setting out on a trail ride by horse back, whether it is a long or short excursion. A saddle bag or pack enables you to…

Saddle sores are the common ailment that afflict regularly ridden horses. They are simply sores that cause pain and discomfort to the horse. This type of wound must be treated with disinfectant and…

English and western saddles actually share many of the same components but English riding saddles are most easily identified by their simple, compact design and lack of a saddle horn. It is important…

No matter what style of riding you prefer, you need to make sure your tack is safe and secure. Learning to tack up your own horse and check the safety of your equipment is a critical part of horseback…

There are a variety of different types of western saddles, with some intended to perform a specific job or duty. The saddles have been customized over the years to provide optimal performance for…

The 19th century brought many changes and innovations to America. The western saddle that exists today was developed as cattle ranching became a way of life in the American West during the 1800s. It…

Western saddles have been in use in the United States since the 19th century. Determining the age of a western horse saddle can be a challenge. Even experts often have difficulty dating some of the…

Learning the parts of the saddle you ride in is a basic necessity for any rider. After all, it would be difficult to understand how to tack up, adjust your riding position and order occasional…

Synthetic saddles are popular with trail riders because they are so easy to clean. While cleaning a leather saddle requires a special conditioner and saddle soap, cleaning a synthetic saddle requires…

Cordura saddles are made with synthetic materials that are designed to be easy to clean. These saddles are very popular with trail riders, and even with some horse show competitors. Cordura saddles…

English and Western saddles have a variety of parts and components that make up the structure. Though both types of saddles have some marked differences, there are a number of components that they…

Western saddles come in different cuts and styles and are meant to be used in performing specific tasks. A roping saddle is designed to be used while working cattle and other livestock. A pleasure…

Unless you are a very good horseback rider, you will need to saddle the horse before you take a ride. Western saddles are the only type of saddle that feature a cinch strap to hold the girth onto a…

A cinch is the strap that goes on the underside of a horse and helps to keep the saddle in place. An ill-fitted cinch will make the saddle move around, fall off or rub the horse's body and make him…

When it comes to western saddles, the maker can have a huge impact on both the quality and the resale value. Saddles by famous makers like Tex Tan, Circle Y, Billy Cook and Billy Royal are always in…

The Circle Y Saddlery of Yoakum, Texas, has been in business and producing western horseback riding saddles since the 1960s. The majority of these saddles feature a serial number (actually the model…

Leather saddles are expensive, so keeping them in good condition through regular cleaning and maintenance is vital. Among the many steps necessary to keep a saddle clean is placing it on a saddle…

The loop seat saddle first became popular in the early 1900s when it was discovered that this style made cleaning the saddle stirrups easy and efficient because the stirrups become visible through a…

Old saddles are often cracked, dry, water-damaged and sometimes nearly unusable. Restoring the old leather is something that can be done at home, but it requires patience, time and many coats of…

With the proper handling and maintenance, a western saddle can last for several years. Western saddles come in many varieties, but are always made of leather with the occasional silver trimming to add…

After the horse itself, the saddle is the most important investment you will make as a rider. A western saddle is an expensive investment, but a good quality saddle will last for many years. A poor…

Saddle scuffs are one of the most common forms of damage your saddle will suffer. A saddle scuff removes the top, finished layer of leather, and reveals a lighter-toned, rough surface beneath. Saddle…

If you are new to the sport of horseback riding, one of the first things you will notice is the differences in the tack your fellow riders use. Some riders use large and heavy Western saddles, while…

A properly fitted cinch on a western saddle is important to both horse and rider. It alleviates issues of discomfort and potential sores for the horse, and keeps the saddle securely in place for the…

Traditional stirrup leathers come with buckles, creating an uncomfortable lump under the rider's thigh. Wintec Webbers connect your stirrups with your saddle without the buckle lumps, allowing you…

When you ride, your safety depends on the tightness and the security of your cinch. The cinch strap is what holds the saddle securely on your horse, and if it is not fastened properly your ride could…

A Western saddle that slips is not only unattractive, it can be dangerous. It can slide and slip under a horse's stomach, which can be frightening to many horses. It can slip to the side with a rider…

Whether you are a barrel racer, a reiner, a roper or just a pleasure rider, you need a quality western saddle for yourself and your horse. A well-made western saddle is vital for your safety and that…

In order to safely ride a horse with a saddle that does not have a buckle on the cinch, the rider needs to learn to properly tie a cinch knot. This will be the case for several western style saddles…

If you've ever been on a trail ride or pack trip, you know how important it can be to be able to carry essential items with you. Making use of a pack or saddle bag makes it easy to bring along small…

No matter what style of riding you prefer or what breed of horse you own, having the right equipment is critical to both your safety and that of your equine partner. Taking the time to attach the…

Cinching up a western saddle can be a difficult skill for new riders to master, but it is critical to having a safe ride. The cinch strap holds the saddle in place and keeps the saddle from slipping…

Some new English and Western saddles cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Therefore, you may save some money by finding a "bargain" old saddle at an estate sale or auction and cleaning and…

Front and rear cinches are critical for securing a western saddle on a horse. However, cinches are only effective if the straps fastening and tightening them to the saddle are in good shape.…

Circle Y of Yoakum manufactures saddles for western pleasure riding, barrel racing, trail riding and roping. This company celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2010. Custom saddles are available if…

Thigh support rolls are generally called bucking rolls. They are added to the front of a western style saddle to give the rider a greater sense of security in staying in the saddle. Because they are…

Correctly saddling a horse for English riding ensures the comfort of you and your horse. Part of saddling your horse is measuring the horse for a cinch strap. The cinch strap wraps around the girth of…

English horseback riding originated in England. Hunting parties needed to get through brush and over obstacles to follow hunting dogs and quarry, and using horses was the answer. In modern American…

Circle Y saddles are a favorite brand with both horse show competitors and casual riders, but no matter what you use your Ultimate Circle Y for, you need to make sure the girth is secured and properly…

So you have a new horse...and now you find that your old saddle doesn't quite fit correctly. The new animal gets sores or white hairs or the saddle doesn't sit well over its withers. You scratch…

Tack and saddle equipment include bridles, girths, breast plates, saddle pads and saddles. Predominantly used for horses, this equipment is usually made of leather, cloth, plastic components, metal or…

Look to Texas when you want to see real cowboys demonstrate a cattle rancher's most vital skills in a rodeo. Some historians credit Texas for establishing the first rodeo, in Pecos in 1883. According…

Bucking rolls are pads that are usually stuffed with something soft, such as hair. They are attached to a western saddle behind the pommel to the swells. They serve to help riders place their legs…

Saddle blankets absorb moisture and help prevent the saddle from rubbing your horse. Selecting the right blanket depends on factors such as type of saddle, weather and riding conditions. Blanket…

In 2010, Circle Y celebrated 50 years of making western saddles and tack. Circle Y claims to be America's leading saddle brand and has established partnerships with a variety of equine industry…

Double T Saddles are sold wholesale by distributors. To become a Double T Saddle dealer, you will need to set up a legitimate business and register as a distributor with one of these wholesale…

A pack saddle is mounted on a load-bearing animal, such as a donkey or a horse, and is used to carry heavy items without causing the animal any harm. These instructions will make a common-sized saddle…

Western saddles can be purchased with either a hard or soft (i.e., padded) seat from a variety of saddle manufacturers. In some cases, the same saddle will come with the option to select a hard seat…

Brenda Imus 4-Beat saddles for gaited horses have been made by several different manufacturers. Circle Y began producing the Imus 4-Beat in 2007, but the partnership did not last. The line was…

Big Horn Saddles makes western saddles that are specially designed to fit Arabian horses' unique conformation. Big Horn designs saddles are manufactured in the United States for trail and pleasure…

Saddles made in England are more often than not of the highest caliber and quality because of what an ideal location the English countryside is for equestrian jaunts. Finding out about saddles made in…

Our pets go so many places with us that it would be handy to have them sport saddle packs to carry their treats, our sunblock and an extra bottle of water to share. Saddle bags have always been…

Ponies are very strong for their size, making them excellent candidates for training to drive. It is important that the driving harness fits correctly. Measuring the pony before purchasing a driving…

Cutting is a fascinating equine sport, and it is always a favorite with spectators as well as horse people. In a cutting competition, the horse and rider pick a steer out of the herd and work to keep…

Collegiate saddles are known for their beauty, their classic styling and their durability. In fact, Collegiate saddles are so well regarded that they are the official saddles of the Intercollegiate…

The two main styles of horse riding are called English and Western. They both have different types of saddles made to perform different functions. Both types of saddles basically consist of a wooden…

No horse is completely safe. Horseback riding is the sole sport involving one smaller, weaker predator animal attempting to impose its will upon--and become a single unit of movement with--a much…

While to the non-rider all English saddles may look the same, they aren't. Each style of English saddle is designed for a specific equine activity, and the design helps both horse and rider perform…

To those who do not ride horses, all Western saddles can look the same. But those who do ride understand that each type of Western saddle is designed with a specific use in mind. The roping saddle is…

Mules are unique in that they are half horse and half jackass. This uniqueness defines their entire conformation, which affects the fit of a saddle. Just as horses, each mule's shape is different. But…

According to the Kentucky Horse Council, a nonprofit horse-owner education group, two types of saddles are commonly used for riding in the United States--English and western. Although some subtle…

Buying a saddle for your horse is not a snap decision, or one to make purely on aesthetic tastes. There are many saddles to choose from, and the differences between saddles lie mainly in the tree.…

Hackney ponies are descended from the hackney horse breed, and they share a stud book with them. These ponies have the same high-stepping, showy gate of the hackney horse, but they possess true pony…

Tie strings, attached by "D" rings to the front and rear jockey portions of a saddle, are used to securely tie gear to the western saddle. Although they are typically made of durable thick leather,…

Ever since they came on to the market, Cordura saddles have been popular with trail riders, endurance riders and others. One of the hallmarks of Cordura saddles is their light weight. In some cases a…

The wooden base of a saddle, whether English or Western, is called the tree. The second step in saddle construction is covering this tree with rawhide, to protect the wood. Later, the rigging,…

A saddle tree is the wooden base of a saddle, designed to give the saddle its shape and evenly distribute the rider's weight over the horse's back. Building a saddle tree is not an easy process, and…

If you ride horses, than you know that aside from feeling comfortable with your horse, you need to feel comfortable in your saddle. Saddle fit and quality are an essential part of your riding…

For the avid equestrian, especially in the field of competitive trail riding or endurance, the saddles made for the sport often arrive ill-equipped for you, the rider. A lack of D-rings, the most…

You left your favorite saddle uncovered on the rack and the barn cat found it perfect for her nap; unfortunately, she left her mark with a nice little rip in the seat. Or something used one of your…

MacPherson saddles are popular choices for both show riders and trail riders, but it is important for shoppers to make sure they are getting what they pay for. Most saddle makers make it easier for…

It's taken 4,000 years to form the English saddles of today. Early riders sought comfort on long rides, and form soon turned to function. The history of the English saddle is really continual…

Equine sports have become highly specialized over the years, and each equine endeavor has its own special tack. Long-distance trail riders and endurance ride enthusiasts use special saddles that are…

Circle Y Saddles is a manufacturer of Western riding saddles. Founded with the vision to make high-quality saddles and tack more than 50 years ago, the company has come to symbolize quality while…

Wintec synthetic western saddles are a popular choice for many riders. They have a number of advantages over traditional leather saddles, in that the synthetic saddle is lighter, easier to clean and…

A sawbuck pack saddle is used to transport equipment and supplies on a horse. The sawbuck refers to the X-shape of the two saddle cross members. The two projections on the top of the X on each cross…

If you own a horse, you already know how expensive saddles and other pieces of tack can be. One way to save money without sacrificing quality or safety is to find an old, neglected leather saddle that…

No matter what style of riding you do or breed of horse you work with, it is important to have the right tack. A sturdy, safe, well-built saddle is important for your safety and your equine…

Leather is widely used in all types of horse tack. While leather is sensitive to excessive dryness and moisture, it is also remarkably resilient. With proper care, it is often possible to restore…

The rope and tack are the tools of the cowboy trade. Tack is defined as the horse equipment necessary to ride the animal while doing the chores of a cowboy. The tack of a cowboy differs in some ways…

The gullet is an important part of the English saddle design, as it directly affects the horse's spine. Gullets must be properly fit to both a horse and rider for a pleasant riding experience.

Whether your saddle cost $100 or $1,000, it is important to care for it properly. A well maintained saddle can last for decades, while a neglected one will start to show its age in only a few years.…

Whether the English saddle you own cost $100 or several thousand dollars, it is important to care for your tack properly. A saddle that is well taken care of can last for years or even decades, while…

No matter what type of horse you ride or what type of riding you do, it is essential that all of your equipment be in good repair. It is also essential that all of your tack, including the girth on…

Leather saddles need to be cleaned of mold, which can quickly erode and destroy the leather surface of the saddle. Mold also can cause an infection on the horse if it makes contact with the animal's…

The American Saddlebred horse is a gaited horse, able to perform intermediate four-beat gaits. Providing its rider with a smooth ride over any type of terrain, the American Saddlebred is used today…

Saddle-making is an art form that is passed down from master craftsmen to apprentices. Saddle schools still operate this way, teaching students eager to accomplish the ultimate goal in leather…

Leather saddles need proper care to prevent them from becoming cracked. Cracked leather easily tears and breaks, especially when weight is placed on stirrups. Because saddles are exposed to the sun,…

Many riders prefer Abetta saddles for their light weight and durability. These saddles are an excellent choice for owners of all breeds of horses, but it is important for riders to know how to cinch…

Horseback riders need to learn how to correctly place and fasten saddle pads and saddles on the horse's back regardless of the riding discipline. Called "tacking up", this part of equestrian sport is…

Glycerin soap has been a popular leather maintenance tool for centuries. Glycerin is an odorless, colorless liquid, primarily made up of fats, that is used in products ranging from soap and shaving…

A quality saddle is no small investment, and it is important to care for and maintain that saddle properly. A well-maintained western or English saddle can last for many years, but occasionally small…

An English saddle is often tougher for beginners than a Western saddle. A Western saddle has a deeper seat and a horn in the front, while the English saddle is light and allows closer contact with the…

The flex tree was the response to the horseback riders' desire for a lighter, more flexible saddle to perform intricate tasks such as barrel racing and team penning. Most saddles constructed and sold…

A saddle club is an equestrian club or organization typically intended for younger girls who are training to ride horses. Saddle clubs can be found throughout the United States, usually in association…

Riding horses can be an extremely relaxing way to de-stress and pass the time. Saddling up requires a certain level of skill, however, and if a saddle is not cinched up properly it could lead to a…

Getting to know the parts of your pony saddle can be confusing. Although every part of a saddle has a role to play for comfort and safety, the three most important parts are the tree, seat and…

The proper way to cinch a saddle is by lifting the stirrup and placing it over the seat of the saddle before reaching across to the girth in order to place the bottom straps down through the reign of…

In order to compete in hunter under saddle, make sure the horse is groomed and clean and that everything is being done to get the horse seen. Keep the bit simple when preparing to compete in hunter…

In a hunter hack class, a horse is being closely examined and should be clean, clipped and their mane braided. Use a fitted saddle pad when competing in hunter hack with help from an equestrian and…

Learn how to harness a pony to a wagon to enjoy a nice ride or to haul neccessary items. Harnessing a pony is does not have to be difficult and can be done by one person.

English saddles are used around the world, including all of the FEI equestrian and Olympic events, with the only current exception being the newly approved FEI events of reining and vaulting. English…

Humans have used saddles for hundreds of years. Typically associated with horses, saddles have been used on a variety of species, including camels, llamas and cattle. Nearly as old as domestication…

Breakaway roping is a fairly straightforward event. In a breakway run, the calf is placed in the chute and a barrier is looped around his neck. The rider has a rope attached to his saddle horn with a…

For many children, owning a pony is a dream come true. Unfortunately, that dream can turn into a nightmare if the pony becomes spoiled. Because they are mainly handled by youngsters, ponies can…

A saddle is a supportive piece of equipment used for riding animals or supporting pack-animal loads. They are most commonly used for horses, but saddles have also been specially developed for camels,…

Anyone that has spent any amount of time in the saddle, knows that the creaking of leather is just a part of riding. However there are some saddles, normally light colored Western saddles, that creak…

Hunter Under Saddle classes are some of the most elegant in the English riding world. Hunters are horses that are judged on movement, style and manners. In a Hunter Under Saddle class, the rider's…

Riding horses is fun and great exercise. There are several ways to ride horses, many of them differing from each other because of the tack used on the horse. This article will give you tips on how to…

Riding horses is fun and great exercise but it is important to do it safely. One of the most important and basic steps of riding is to saddle and girth your horse properly. Here are some tips on how…

Riding horses is fun and great exercise. There are many ways to ride horses, most of them differing from each other based on the tack used. This article will give you some tips on how to ride in the…

Watch as a seasoned horseback rider demonstrates how to cinch the tightening straps on a Western saddle in this free online video about horseback riding.

Watch as a seasoned horseback rider explains how to adjust a Western saddle in this free online video about horseback riding.

Watch as a seasoned horseback rider demonstrates how to choose a Western saddle in this free online video about horseback riding.

Watch as a seasoned horseback rider explains the parts of a Western saddle in this free online video about horseback riding.

Watch as a seasoned horseback rider explains how tightly to hook the girth of an English saddle in this free online video about horseback riding.

Watch as a seasoned horseback rider demonstrates how to properly hook the girth of an English saddle in this free online video about horseback riding.

You have the horse and you have the western saddle but how do you cinch a western saddle. Unlike those easy to buckle English saddles, you need to learn a special slipknot to fasten a western Saddle.…

One of the most important things to do when you're saddling a horse is to make sure that the cinch is properly tightened. Tightening the girth of a western saddle keeps you and your horse safe.

"Girthy" horses and ponies can try your patience and be dangerous to work around, but usually with patience and trial and error you can find a girth that they will not object to. Once you have made…

Picking the right jockey saddle is a crucial part of success for both the horse and the rider. As such, a vital part of performance--the process of picking a saddle--should never be rushed, as there…

Mold and mildew may be one of the most frustrating problems in caring for your leather tack supplies. Once the spores of mold and mildew contaminate leather, it is almost impossible to destroy them…

When looking at a mule packing a load for camping or hiking trips, you may think the mule was born with this ability. It actually takes a lot of instruction to teach a mule to pack a load on his back,…

Western pleasure is an event that incorporates slow, controlled movements with precise body positioning and control for both the rider and the horse.

Hunter under saddle is the preliminary class for English riding disciplines. The rider works the horse at the three gaits and does not do any jumps. Hunter under saddle derives from fox hunts, when…

Equitation is an English riding event that judges correct riding and proper body carriage of horse and rider.

Hunter hack is the transitional English class between the flat riding class with no jumps (hunter under saddle) and the class with tall jumps (working hunter).

Gracefulness, balance and coordination are required of your horse in this English jumping event.

Dressing for an English riding event is like going to private school, where you have to wear a certain type of pants, shirt and jacket.