The Western saddle you choose has a big impact on the feel of riding for both you and your horse. Unfortunately, some riders makes mistakes when purchasing a Western saddle that lead to discomfort and decreased satisfaction with their choice of saddle.
The following are six things not to do when you buy a Western saddle to maximize your satisfaction with your purchase.
Choosing the least expensive saddle
A Western saddle can be a costly investment. However, it's important to invest in quality. Don't just choose one of the least expensive saddles available to you.
A higher-end Western saddle can provide you with a much higher level of comfort while riding. It's also important to realize that a more expensive saddle is likely to be more durable and therefore last longer.
Focusing on appearances rather than comfort
While you're in the market for a Western saddle, you may notice some beautiful, eye-catching saddles. However, you shouldn't be blinded by looks. Some of the Western saddles out there that are the most striking visually are the worst practically when it comes to everyday riding.
If you spend hours in a saddle on a regular basis, comfort is essential. That's why it's important to focus more on how a saddle feels for you and your horse than how a saddle looks.
Failing to put enough consideration into fit on your horse
A Western saddle needs to fit both horse and rider properly. You should have measurement information for your horse available while shopping for a Western saddle.
It's essential to know both the width of your horse's withers and the back length of your horse when shopping for a saddle. These measurements are among the most important when it comes to correctly sizing a saddle.
Thinking you have to buy new in the beginning
You don't necessarily have to buy a new Western saddle to ride comfortably on your horse. In fact, buying used may be a good idea when you're buying a Western saddle for the first time. This way, you can get a better idea of saddle sizing before you invest more money in a brand-new saddle.
Buying a saddle without trying it out
You can and should try a Western saddle out before you buy it. You should sit in the saddle to find out how comfortable it is. Your saddle doesn't only have to fit your horse. It has to fit you as well.
Consider the positioning of the stirrups when evaluating how well a saddle fits you. Stirrups shouldn't be hung either too far forward or back so that you can ride in the saddle comfortably.
Looking at only leather Western saddles
Western saddles are traditionally made from leather. However, synthetic Western saddles are available nowadays that might be best for your needs.
Synthetic saddles tend to be more lightweight than leather saddles. Lighter-weight saddles can be advantageous for both horse and rider, so consider the synthetic options.
Share18 October 2021
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