Western Saddles For Sale
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Western saddles are very different from English saddles, so you cannot simply use the same saddle for both riding styles. If you plan to compete in horse shows or do dressage work, you will need to buy English style tack, while Western tack is needed for barrel racing or ideal for trail rides since the high pommel and saddle horn provide a measure of additional support over uneven trails.[10] Western saddles are held in place with two girth straps called cinches. [11] Western saddles are measured from the rider side of the horn, back to the top of the cantle, and English saddles are measured from the button in the front, diagonally back to the top of the cantle. When selecting an Australian seat, let us guide you, because we are familiar with variations of ALL Australian models.[12]
[10] http://www.petlvr.com/blog/2007/12/horse-tack-2/
[11] http://www.liveforhorses.co.uk/page_1155868484500.html
[12] http://www.aussiesaddle.com/saddlefit.htm
Western saddles are extensively decorated—the carved leatherwork is often a true work of art (see here ) —and intricately carved silver conchos and other additions are frequently added to the saddle for show purposes. More than any other style of saddle, the western saddle can be customized to be a true expression of the rider's taste and style.[13] Western Saddles are made of several different materials. In the past, the Western Saddle was made from leather which covered a wooden tree.[14]
[13] http://martinsonleatherworks.com/beginners.html
[14] http://www.mini-horse-pony-tack-guide.com/western-saddle.html
Western saddles are normally constructed of veg-tanned carving leather while English saddle makers use chrome tanned leathers. [7] Western saddles are used (English saddles are available upon request). Each rider receives personal attention in horse selection according to their experience, and a brief lesson before leaving on the trail ride.[8] Western saddles are built on either wooden trees covered in fiberglass or rawhide, or a material called ralide which is a polyethelene. Most are covered with leather, although there are now lighter weight synthetic saddles available.[9]
[7] http://www.caledonleather.ca/aboutleather.html
[8] http://www.cabosanlucasactivities.com/cabo_horseback.html
[9] http://www.equisearch.com/horses_riding_training/tack_apparel/saddlefacts/
Western saddles are used for western pleasure riding, roping and other Western disciplines. Australian stock saddles are closely related to Western saddles.[4] Western saddles are now manufactured, imported, and exported all over the world. But regardless of their style or origins, all of these saddles share ancestry and derive from the western stock saddle.[5] Western saddles are also built to hold the ?gear? By contrast, an English saddle provides a minimum of support and therefore much less interference between the horse and rider.[6]
[4] http://www.horsetack.us/
[5] http://ezinearticles.com/?western-saddle:-the-evolution-from-war-saddle-to-stock-saddle&id=435288
[6] http://www.cheappetstore.com/library/horse-other/horse-miscellaneous/english-vs-western-riding
Western saddles are recommended, as they are safer going up and down steep terrain and are generally more comfortable for long rides. Few stables offer riding helmets, so if you are planning on doing any serious riding bring your own helmet.[1] Western saddles are more comfortable and provide the rider with a more secure seat. English riding focuses more on jumping, horsemanship, and communication between horse and rider.[2] Western saddles are easier on a horse's back because the weight is more evenly distributed, even though they weigh more than an English type saddle. When a western saddle fits a horse properly, you should be able to put three fingers vertically between the horse's withers and the pommel of the saddle, under the horn.[3]
[1] http://www.ecuadorexplorer.com/html/horseback_riding.html
[2] http://www.horseridinghelp.com/horse_riding_camps.php
[3] http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/horse_talk/96064