Buying the Right Saddle - By: Azlan

A saddle is one of the first pieces of equipment nearly all people purchase after they get a horse. It is a major investment; selecting and purchasing a saddle require much deliberation and knowledge. The life span of most saddles is several times that of a horse, so take great care when choosing a saddle.

The first move in picking out a saddle is to decide which style of riding you like better. For many riders this may not be important. The choice probably was arrived at long before, and the horse purchased specifically for that style. For a novice, though, choosing the riding style may present more of a dilemma. Each style has its advantages and disadvantages.

Western or stock saddles tend to be large and heavy. They are difficult, if not impossible, for young people to manage. Nevertheless, they provide plenty of protection for a beginner. The depth of the saddle and the quantity of leather below the leg, knee and seat keep apart the horse from the rider.

Western saddles are possibly more adaptable, strong and resilient than other styles. They are available in a broad assortment of designs and prices. Hunt-jump saddles are usually rather light and easily handled. Here, too, an extensive selection of designs and prices is on hand. This ktype of saddle allows the rider, in most cases, to ride nearer to the horse, to sense the horse and to communicate more effortlessly with seat and legs. As a rule, these saddles call for additional instruction of the rider in developing a sure seat than with standard saddles.

Saddles used to ride and exhibit gaited or park horses, such as the Lane Fox saddle, are kind of restricted in use. They retain many of the advantages of the hunt-jump saddles — they are light and permit effortlessness in communicating with the horse. However, they place the rider so far behind the withers that the sole means for the rider to be in balance with the horse is to have the horse well collected and working off its quarters. This style of saddle provides minimum security for the rider; any rider should become skilled at riding such a saddle decently.

Dressage saddles are configured to fit women's ankle-length skirts. While they are utilized for other modes of riding, they are not preferable. The design of this saddle offers the rider with utmost ease of communication with the horse and holds the rider in complete equilibrium and form, whether the horse is highly collected or mildly extended, all within the rather narrow limits of tradition.

There are several saddles intended for very precise roles aside from those formerly brought up. These consist of side-saddle, trick saddle and special show or display saddle. These saddles are exceedingly specific in their design. Using them for anything other than their designated use should be discouraged. Safety, comfort of the rider and ability to maintain soundness of the horse must be considered before beauty or the desire for a unique design.

About the Author

Ricky Hamilton is a researcher and writer working for http://www.saddleteam.com, where you can get all the best horse saddles at the best prices. Visit us for all your saddle needs.

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