Styles of Horse Saddles
Whether for exhibition, recreation or work , saddlery is a very precise craft that has a saddle for every horseback riding need. english saddles Dressage saddles, treeless saddles, English saddles and western saddles are among the varieties that are found within the equestrian world. equine supplements Wherever you may find horses, you can find these saddle types, each serving a purpose.
Synonymous with the cowboy of American legend, the western saddle is the type traditionally used by the cattle rancher who worked long hours while mounted. The early horse trainers and cattle ranchers, the Spanish vaqueros, used the earliest of this saddle type. With its high arching pommel and cantle and its fixed stirrups, the western saddle also was distinct for having a horn, a front placed knob to which a rope could be tied that was lassoed around a cow or bull. equine supplements The western saddle is used today in all manner of rodeo competitions such as roping and barrel racing.
The English saddle stands in direct contrast. Although not limited to England, this saddle type is used in the English riding style which is found in most Olympic and equestrian competitions. The English saddle has no horn, it is lighter than the western variety, and in case the rider should fall, it comes with detachable stirrups. Allowing the horse the most movement and freedom to jump and run, this saddle was used historically during fox hunting. Show jumping, polo, horseracing and dressage are a few of the modern uses for the English saddle.
Dressage saddles and treeless saddles are two other types. Dressage is translated as ‘training, a discipline that fosters the seemingly effortless movement of the horse through various exercises. Lightweight and simple, dressage saddles have straight cut side flaps and a deep seat. This allows riders to have very close contact with the horse and to cue it precisely. Another saddle that allows for close contact is called a treeless saddle, made from fiberglass and leather. Known as bareback pads and good for horses with wide backs, there is a minimal amount of material between the horse and the rider.
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