Horse Saddles: Not just a bunch of
fluff
We all know the
purpose of a good saddle. We have come to depend on the padding and comfort for
our bottoms as we are riding. But where did the idea come from? And what kinds
of saddles do you have to choose from? Let's look into this lovely, and
sometimes expensive, piece of equipment.
Around the year 2000 B C, people began riding horses. Most of the time it was
bareback, or sometimes they would sit on a piece of cloth, maybe some type of
hide from an animal. Nowadays, they have several types of materials used for
saddle making. Leather is the most typical material. Also, there are saddles
made from synthetic materials, these are a little more animal friendly, as they
are not made from an animals hide.
In the dressage saddle, the seat is cut deep, so the rider sits closer to the
horse. Closer contact between the rider and the horse, means the rider can cue
his horse more precisely. Racing saddles are for use on thoroughbred race
horses. They are very small and lightweight, as the rider does not sit on it.
He rides perched up over top of the horses shoulders. These saddles should not
be used for general horseback riding. The side saddle is designed so that the
rider can sit almost sideways on the horse. It is made with a head where the
rider hooks their right leg for stability. The left leg is in normal position,
and sits in the stirrup.
No matter the shape of the saddle or the material it is made from, always be
sure to fit your horse properly. Make sure you have a snug fit, and that you
are using the right type of saddle.
