Choosing a Western Saddle - Construction Types and Materials
Title: Choosing a Western Saddle - Construction Types and Materials
Author: Janet Ashby
Article:
There are many different styles and types of western saddle and
it can be confusing for a novice, especially when purchasing a
used saddle, to know which one is right for them and their
horse. We’ve put together some information to help. In this
report we’ve concentrated on construction material and
production techniques.Within each type their are also many
different options including riding position, horn style, smooth
or rough leather and cantle height.
Custom Saddles
Custom saddles are the most expensive at between $2500 and
$4000. They are usually made from the highest quality materials
and are customised to the individual requirements of horse and
rider. They take anywhere from 35 hours to 50 hours to build and
many saddle makers have a backlog so delivery may be between
three months and as long as a year. The saddle maker will
usually ask for a deposit and you should ensure that you receive
a contract and receipt.
Manufactured Saddles
Most of us will be buying machine made saddles and these vary a
great deal in both price and quality. Some can be almost as good
as custom made saddles. The price and quality will depend on
both the materials used and the construction techniques. Saddles
in the lower price bracket may have poorer quality materials,
plastic trees, lower grade leather and use staples instead of
screws and nails. As with any other purchase you basically get
what you pay for. It is usually better, if you are on a limited
budget, to purchase a well made, good quality used saddle that
will have many years of life left in it, rather than a new poor
quality saddle that may have a short life and be uncomfortable
for both rider and horse.
When buying a used or new saddle look for manufacturers such as
Billy Cook, McNall, Martin and Crates to ensure a well made,
good quality saddle.
Leather
Most people opt for leather saddles as they are durable,
flexible and comfortable. Synthetic saddles are becoming more
popular but they are not as durable or comfortable as leather
saddles nor do they look as good. To make a saddle a whole cow
hide equivalent is needed. Heavier leather is used on areas that
will receive the most wear, such as the stirrups, seat and
fenders. Stretchable, thinner leather is used on the fork,
cantle back and stirrup covers. The leather is applied smooth
side out in some areas and the inner, rougher side out for areas
that need extra grip such as the seat.
Synthetic
Although leather saddles are by far the most popular synthetic
saddles are being bought in increasing numbers. They are cheaper
than leather saddles and lighter in weight. They come in
different styles, such as barrel, endurance, trail etc and are
designed to look like leather saddles as much as possible.
Although, in our opinion synthetic saddles do not have the feel
and looks of leather saddles they have a place in casual riding
or for children who will quickly outgrow a saddle. They may be
suitable for novice riders who have yet to decide the type of
saddle they need and would like to purchase a cheaper saddle
before they make up their mind on a more expensive leather
saddle. They do not have the durability of leather saddles
despite some of the manufacturers claims and for those on a
limited budget we would always advise them to buy a good quality
used leather saddle rather than a cheaper, new synthetic saddle.
About the author:
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