Western saddles come in many different styles and sizes. They can be divided into types depending on their construction material, production technique, fork type and tree type. There are very many options within each type including cantle height, horn style, riding position, smooth or rough leather and horn style. Custom saddles are hand made from the very highest quality materials to your individual requirements. Usually taking between 35 and 50 hours to build a custom saddle will cost between $2500 and $4000. Choosing a Western Saddle - Part 1 Saddle Types…
Wade Tree Saddles: This type of saddle is built specifically as a working saddle, for long hours in the saddle and for livestock handling. They have been very popular in the Rocky Mountain regions for some time and have now become more widely popular for western saddles.They have become popular largely thanks to the influence of Ray Hunt who has introduced many riders to Wade tree saddles. They have now become top sellers for custom saddle makers and are now also being produced by many other manufacturers. Choosing a Western Saddle - Part 2 Saddle Tree Types…
Ranch saddles, also called cowboy, buckaroo and old time, are designed as working saddles, for long hours roping and livestock handling. They should be both comfortable and functional as well as durable. Features of ranch saddles include a deep seat to allow good communication and comfort, low swells, a thick, tall horn for dallying and double rigging with both a front and flank cinch. They also typically have a high cantle fenders that are hung directly below the rider, a rope strap and saddle strings for tying gear and are usually heavier weight. Choosing a Western Saddle - Part 3 Saddle Styles..
Cutting Saddles: These saddles are designed for separating a cow from the herd. A cutter saddle is designed for good balance and allows sharp turns, stops and starts. Cutting can be a wild activity and the saddle must help to keep the rider seated. Some typical features of cutter saddles include a thin, tall horn for easier grip, wide, high and straight swells and a long, flat seat for good maneuverability. Rough leather on the fenders and jockeys for a good grip is usually used and a low cantle and double rigging are standard in cutter saddles. Choosing a Western Saddle - Part 4 More Saddle Styles…
Endurance Saddles: Endurance saddles are designed for long hours in the saddle during endurance competitions. These saddles need to be light weight but durable, able to cope with steep and rugged terrain over many hours. They also need to be designed for close contact between rider and horse. Features include a comfortable, often padded seat, no horn and short rounded skirts for lighter weight. Deep stirrups, for added comfort, and single rigging to prevent saddle slipping. Choosing a Western Saddle - Part 5 More Saddle Styles…