Horse riding is an exciting skill to learn. In addition to purchasing your horse, buying the best fit saddle can be one of the most expensive equipment in your horse riding venture. As you decide which and what horse saddles to buy, here are some of the factors that you should consider:
Horse fit. This is undoubtedly one of the most important considerations. Will the saddle fit your horse? It is essential for your safety, as well. A saddle that is not installed correctly can cause problems during your training sessions, let alone the possibility of health implications. You could fall and injure yourself. When getting your saddle, ensure that it fits correctly, a firm grip, onto your horse. You should consider that as horses’ age, sizes change. The saddle that fits your horse right now may not fit years to come. Also, note that different breeds of horses may have different characteristics; so ensure you get one that fits the type of horse you have. Ideally, a good saddle should be well balanced on the horse, and allow free motion between the shoulders. It is essential to learn how to fit a saddle correctly. Many online tutorials can show you how to do that.
Type of material used. Is it leather or synthetic? A significant consideration is identifying the type of material that your saddle should be composed of. Whether you choose leather or synthetic materials, there are different advantages and disadvantages of each. A leather saddle is more long-lasting exceptionally when adequately cared for. To ensure this, make sure to clean and oiled regularly, to ensure it remains supple. Synthetic materials, on the other hand, are lighter in weight and relatively easier to clean. They are also less costly than their leather counterparts. Whatever material you choose for your saddle, make sure to clean them regularly.
Your intended use. The saddle you choose for your horse should correspond with how you will use it. There are different disciplines of horse-riding, whether you intend to ride in the dressage ring or jump in the hunter ring. Identify which saddle best suits your intended discipline and make your purchase. For instance, if you intend to jump, you should consider having an all-purpose saddle.
Check online reviews. Before making the final decision of purchase, check out reviews on your preferred saddle, to identify what other users think. Reviews are one of the best ways of narrowing identifying the best choices to make. There are so many online options available, take time, and make an informed decision.
Your budget. Purchasing a saddle can be a costly venture. Have a predetermined budget in mind and evaluate the options you have. The right saddle will determine whether or not you enjoy your ride. If you are on a limited budget, you can consider purchasing a plain saddle without all the extra details, such as pearls or other small details. All in all, settle on a good saddle that will ensure your comfort.