Choosing a Show Saddle

Choosing a show saddle for you or a family member can be tricky. Following a few easy steps can make the purchase much easier. Deciding the look of saddle, size, and type of saddle should all be items of interest when choosing a saddle.

A saddle for showing purposes can range from very decorative with silver accents to a more plain traditional leather look. The more detail a saddle contains the higher the price. Too much flash can also take away from the horse being shown. The buyer should find a good combination of silver accents and leatherwork.

The size of the saddle depends on the height and weight of the rider and the breed of the horse. The rider size of a saddle is the measure from the horn to the middle of the cantle, but this does not include the fit for the horse. Looking into the breed of the horse will help a person buy the correct saddle. The correct size girth will have to be purchased and attached to the saddle to provide a correct and comfortable fit for the horse. Also making sure the correct padding is coupled with the saddle to provide the correct fit for the rider and horse.

Two major categories of saddles are Western and English. The type of saddle purchased will depend on the breed of horse and what type of show in which the horse is being shown. Equestrian riders along with riders of Tennessee Walking Horses typically show in English saddles. Riders of quarter horses tend to show in western saddles. Both types of saddles serve a purpose depending on the type of showing is desired by the rider.

Purchasing saddle can be overwhelming if the rider is going into the purchase unprepared. With the right knowledge and preparation, purchasing a saddle can be fun and entertaining. Learn more information about show saddle like Bates saddle or Pessoa saddle.


Creative Commons License photo credit: fueledbynofx

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