Saddle

If you've developed an affinity for riding horses, you'll eventually purchase a saddle. A saddle is likely one of the most expensive pet supplies you'll ever have occasion to buy. That being the case, it makes sense to take your time and choose your saddle carefully to avoid making a costly mistake.The Western saddle, originally designed for cowboys, is designed to distribute the weight of both the saddle and rider over the back of the horse, making the task of carrying the rider less tiring for the horse. The cantle, fenders, and stirrups of the Western saddle are designed to keep the rider both comfortable and secure, while the horn is not for the rider's benefit (as many believe), but is actually used in working cattle. The English saddle is smaller and more lightweight than a Western saddle. The English saddle is designed not for comfort, but to allow the rider close physical contact with the horse. The lighter style of the English saddle allows for closer contact, and, as a result, better communication between horse and rider.You can choose from a leather saddle or a saddle made with some type of leather-look or fabric covering. Some riders prefer the look, feel, and smell of leathers saddles, while others prefer lighter-weight, easier-to-clean synthetic saddles. To keep expenses down--especially when you are new to the horse world-- consider buying a used saddle. Not only do used saddles offer the advantage of being much less expensive, but they have also--in the case of leather saddles--been broken in and have a soft, supple feel to them.