Tips and Warnings. Related Articles. Article Summary. Part 1. Set your budget. Make sure you know how much money you can comfortably spend on the saddle. While some saddles are quite expensive, others can be found in a more reasonable price range.
Whatever your budget, talk to your saddle shop openly, and ask them to help you find a quality saddle that you can afford. Can you recommend something of good quality in that price range? Used saddles are often available from riding stables, tack stores, and even from fellow riders. Before purchasing a used saddle, make sure it fits your horse well. An ill-fitting saddle can lead to injury for the horse or rider.
Keep in mind that many saddles do not come with cinches, stirrups, and girths, so these will be an additional expense. Research fair prices. A simple way to find current pricing is to do an online search for the type of saddle you wish to purchase. You can also visit several different saddle retailers and compare prices.
Talk to other horse owners or riders about where they buy quality saddles at the best prices. Purchase from a reputable retailer. First, the shop should allow you a trial period with your saddle to ensure it fits both you and your horse.
A reputable saddle shop will also have a reasonable return or exchange policy, if your saddle does not work out. Part 2. Read up on saddle types. English and Western are the two basic kinds of saddle, but there are actually countless variations of the two.
English saddles are smaller, lighter, and allow you to be closer to the horse. Western saddles are larger, and they require padding between the horse and saddle. The most noticeable difference between the two is the horn on the Western saddle. English saddles are available in a variety of styles for different uses. For instance, deeper seated saddles are used for dressage, stylized horse riding competition. Western saddles come in many styles, and they are often decorated with artistic flourishes in the leather.
Your riding style will play a crucial part in determining what type of saddle is best. Individuals who wish to participate in dressage, polo, or even horse racing will require an English saddle. In contrast, those who wish to ride on trails or work on ranches or farms may prefer a Western saddle. If more than one rider will be using the saddle, make sure each rider has input on the purchase and is able to try the saddle. Choose leather or synthetic. The minute you ride in a higher quality saddle, you understand why they are so expensive.
They are extra comfy for both you and your horse, and really do help keep you in the correct position, which is why they truly are an investment for your riding career. When taken care of, a good saddle will last a lifetime, so while the initial investment may seem daunting, it pays for itself in the long run. And you don't have to go out and buy a brand new saddle either.
There are plenty of great used saddle options , as well! Owning your saddle is truly an investment in your riding career and can provide many great benefits! Your horse! What would the holidays be without spoiling your favorite four-legged friends a little bit? Sun Shirts Sun Shirts. Dear EHH, I'm an adult amateur rider. Dear Saddle Shopper, I think many people who ride can relate to how you feel. More about ellisonhartleyhorsemanship , horsemanshipjourney , horsecrazykidturnedhorsecrazygrownup , advicefromainstructor , advicefromatrainer , shouldibuyasaddle?
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