Types of Horse Saddles
30 November 2010
Horse saddles are used by people who ride horses. The saddle goes on the horse’s back to support the rider or other types of loads. Horse saddles are really very necessary for anyone who rides and trains horses. You’ll find that there are a couple of main types of saddles that those in the equestrian world like to use.
One type is called an English saddle. The other type is called a Western saddle. However, horse saddles can be very different for various ethnic groups as well. Choose the right kind of horse saddles will depend on the particular kind of riding you do. You can narrow your choices down with in the two main categories of horse saddles. For example, there are horse saddles for show, pleasure riding, endurance riding and for general purpose. If you are new to horseback riding and buying horse saddles you’ll have to familiarize yourself with the terms and learn what the pommel, cantle, horn and cinch are.
English horse saddles are the main type of saddles used for Olympic equestrian event. Naturally, the English riders favor them. Different types of English saddles are used for show jumping, hunter jumping, dressage, horse racing, saddle seat, or polo. The appropriate type of horse saddles should be used for each type of riding.
Western saddles are used the most the United States. These types of horse saddles are used on cattle ranches. However, today they are used in numerous western riding activities. Western saddles need to have a saddle blanket used underneath them so that they keep the horse comfortable with being ridden. The horn on the front of western horse saddles distinguishes them from English saddles that to not have a horn. The horn on the western saddle is used for roping cattle and very useful in rodeos. The western saddle is also a great saddle to use if you don’t have prior experience with horseback riding. That’s because the novice can hold onto the horn. These are also great saddles to use for those who are handicapped but would get great benefit from riding horses.