Saddle Up on Your Steed with the Right Leather Seat!
Leather saddles are one of the most important — and most expensive — pieces of equipment in a horse rider's arsenal. However, it's a supportive seat that's designed to position a rider on their horse properly. It provides support to a rider's lower body, including their back and rear. In addition, the rider's leg depends on the saddle to ensure perfect balance.
But in addition to providing rider support, a good saddle ensures the comfort of the saddle horse. It allows a horse to move around without any issues. In particular, it doesn't disrupt the range of motion of a horse's shoulder. So, there are two main types of saddles: Western and English saddles. Whatever the purpose, saddles usually have the following features:
Whether you're roping cattle, trotting at a leisurely pace, or clearing hurdles like a pro equestrian, you need a saddle that's the perfect fit for you and your horse. Even general-purpose saddles, when purchased brand-new, have an excellent feel. For many equestrians and horse enthusiasts, purchasing a new horse saddle is usually the best course of action.
Modern English saddles can ensure that a rider has a deep seat that assists with balance and comfort.
Getting a New Horse Saddle
When you purchase a saddle for yourself, you're guaranteed to find one that fits you perfectly! A new saddle is symmetrical but can settle the shape of your chosen saddle horse with enough time. In addition to the actual saddle, riders can purchase a saddle set, whether it's a general-purpose saddle or made for professional equestrians.
Well-fitting saddles for horses usually come with these other components:
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A saddle blanket
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Stirrups
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A stirrup belt
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A girth
Riders gain several advantages from buying a new saddle. Firstly, having new, well-fitting saddles is safer than buying cheap ones because it's outfitted with new parts and straps. Cheaper horse saddles tend to be bought second-hand and might be unfit for riding. But with a brand-new saddle, you can be assured of quality workmanship and safety through the manufacturer's warranty.
Additionally, a personal saddle means that you won't have to share it with other riders. When you're taking lessons, chances are you share one saddle with others. Sometimes, you don't know how well they're caring for the equipment during training. But, because your saddle is your own, you can be sure about its quality of care.
Saddle Fitting and Why You Need the Help of a Saddle Fitter
Usually, saddles are made of leather, which can mould to fit the animal, and its rider better. This can be great for comfort, but over time, it'll become less and less symmetrical. Some saddle horses can change shape within a year. So, riders have to watch out for their horse's health, as their saddle fit will depend on their condition.
Thus, you need to check on the saddle fitting twice a year under the watchful eye of a qualified saddle fitter. Additionally, riders are urged to change their saddles after two years.
Riders need a saddle designed with them and their horse in mind when they have the budget for it. As a result, the saddle will be a perfect fit, providing better support while riding around on their horse. So, a new, personal horse saddle offers a more stable and comfortable riding experience.
On the other hand, a new saddle can make the riding experience easier for the horse. The saddle can fit snugly on your animal, which means they won't experience discomfort while out on a ride. With a perfect fit, you won't have to worry about rubbing your horse's shoulders the wrong way.
What Riders Need for Their Leather Deep Seat
Many modern leather saddles are engineered for comfort for both rider and horse, resulting in better performance. Depending on the price, you can find a high-quality leather seat featuring a cutting-edge design. Some saddle features that are characteristic of top-notch riding equipment include the following:
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Pressure points for increased durability;
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A padded saddle blanket made with high-quality materials;
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Sturdy, adjustable metal stirrups that can ensure stability while riding.
If you're uncomfortable with riding on your animal on a saddle made of real leather, there are plenty of saddles made with fake or artificial material. Plus, you can find a saddle that's made strictly for utilitarian purposes or get one that fits your aesthetic. Additionally, you can adjust the length of the saddle straps to ensure your comfort while on your trusty steed.
You can talk to your saddle fitter to ensure that your leather seat is perfect for riding around on your horse. It also has the perk of added security, as well-fitting riding equipment ensures that you won't encounter any trouble while riding. Your horse, though it can't speak your language, will also thank you for using English saddles that are well-suited for riding!
Talk to a Saddle Fitter and Find the Perfect Deep Seat!
Before any rider makes a purchase, they need to have a good saddle fitting. Whether you're a pro equestrian or a casual rider, having well-made equipment is important for both rider and saddle horse. One saddle, including a general-purpose saddle, can last a rider about two years, depending on the horse's condition. What's important is that the seat's features work for you and your animal.
Once you've got your saddle measurements and shape down, you can consider purchasing from a local shop or an online one.