Choosing a Western Saddle - Construction Types and Materials

There are many different styles and types of western saddle and it can be confusing for a novice, especially when purchasing a used saddle, to know which one is right for them and their horse. We've put together some information to help. In this report we've concentrated on construction material and production techniques.Within each type their are also many different options including riding position, horn style, smooth or rough leather and cantle height.

Custom Saddles

Custom saddles are the most expensive at between $2500 and $4000. They are usually made from the highest quality materials and are customised to the individual requirements of horse and rider. They take anywhere from 35 hours to 50 hours to build and many saddle makers have a backlog so delivery may be between three months and as long as a year. The saddle maker will usually ask for a deposit and you should ensure that you receive a contract and receipt.

Manufactured Saddles

Most of us will be buying machine made saddles and these vary a great deal in both price and quality. Some can be almost as good as custom made saddles. The price and quality will depend on both the materials used and the construction techniques. Saddles in the lower price bracket may have poorer quality materials, plastic trees, lower grade leather and use staples instead of screws and nails. As with any other purchase you basically get what you pay for. It is usually better, if you are on a limited budget, to purchase a well made, good quality used saddle that will have many years of life left in it, rather than a new poor quality saddle that may have a short life and be uncomfortable for both rider and horse.

When buying a used or new saddle look for manufacturers such as Billy Cook, McNall, Martin and Crates to ensure a well made, good quality saddle.

Leather

Most people opt for leather saddles as they are durable, flexible and comfortable. Synthetic saddles are becoming more popular but they are not as durable or comfortable as leather saddles nor do they look as good. To make a saddle a whole cow hide equivalent is needed. Heavier leather is used on areas that will receive the most wear, such as the stirrups, seat and fenders. Stretchable, thinner leather is used on the fork, cantle back and stirrup covers. The leather is applied smooth side out in some areas and the inner, rougher side out for areas that need extra grip such as the seat.

Synthetic

Although leather saddles are by far the most popular synthetic saddles are being bought in increasing numbers. They are cheaper than leather saddles and lighter in weight. They come in different styles, such as barrel, endurance, trail etc and are designed to look like leather saddles as much as possible. Although, in our opinion synthetic saddles do not have the feel and looks of leather saddles they have a place in casual riding or for children who will quickly outgrow a saddle. They may be suitable for novice riders who have yet to decide the type of saddle they need and would like to purchase a cheaper saddle before they make up their mind on a more expensive leather saddle. They do not have the durability of leather saddles despite some of the manufacturers claims and for those on a limited budget we would always advise them to buy a good quality used leather saddle rather than a cheaper, new synthetic saddle.