There are dozens of styles and configurations of western horse saddles available on the market today. The material used to create each saddle has an impact on its durability. While most horses can tolerate a wide range of saddles, the aging process or weight changes may require a more frequent change. A saddle is an essential part of a horse’s riding tack, and you should keep an eye out for any strange behaviors, such as honking, bucking, or tail-wagging.

Try A Saddle Before Making The Purchase

Western saddles are safer for new riders. They are wider and easier to balance compared to their English counterparts. Unlike English saddles, Western saddles have horns, which are beneficial to novice riders. Most Western horse saddles weigh around 25 pounds, though this weight varies according to design features and materials used. Metal decorations can add up to 40 pounds to the saddle. While choosing a saddle, keep in mind that you should not be saddled if you can’t reach the horn.

A Western horse saddle is rigged with two sets of buckles and rings. The front cinch has metal “cinch rings” on each side that attach to the horse’s heart girth. The back cinch goes around the horse’s barrel and is attached to the saddle through reinforced slots in the leather skirting. Heavy-duty Western saddles will have a second set of rings on the back. These rings hold the saddle in place while the horse is in motion.