There are several kinds of Western saddles that are used for a variety of purposes. Their look and style vary depending on their intended use. This article is a quick overview of the basic western saddles for the equestrian.

1. In most boarding barns you will see a generic Western Show Saddle, designed for looks rather than hard work. They change often as fashion trends dictate. Typically, they will have ornate, deep tooling patterns in the leather. Often you will see them trimmed with silver on the skirts, cantle, horn, stirrups and fork (pommel). Generally the horn is shorter than on other western saddles to avoid the reins getting caught. And, you will see the skirts somewhat larger to show off the silver and the leather tooling designs.

As far as working saddles go, there are many but here are the basic ones you will come across: the roping saddle, the cutting saddle, reining saddle and barrel racing saddle.

2. The Roping Saddle is designed to promote the greatest freedom of movement for the rider. These riders must be able to easily chase, rope and dally a cow to the horn of their saddle. Therefore, the horn must be stronger and taller than most. It is thicker for strength and higher to allow the rope to be more easily tied. The roping saddle must also be strong enough to withstand the pressure of a cow. So, it is a heavier weight with a wooden saddle tree covered with bullhide. It will have a lower cantle so the rider can dismount with great ease.

3. Cutting Saddles are designed to permit the rider to single out a cow and steer it from a larger herd. Well trained cutting horses stop quickly, turn on a dime and stay with that cow on their own! So, it is up to the rider to stay out of the way! Therefore, cutting saddles have tall but thinner horns for the rider to grip easily. High and wide swells to help hold the rider in the saddle during the quick turns and free swinging fenders so the rider can stay balanced.

4. Reining Saddles are built to help the rider accomplish certain patterns that include circles, spins and sliding stops. This rider needs closer contact with his horse and to maintain the ability to communicate with subtle cues. Therefore, the horn and fork will be lower to avoid interference with the reins, the seat is low and shaped so that the rider can shift himself during sliding stops and the skirts are cut out for closer leg communication.

5. Barrel Racing Saddles are designed for the rider to obtain maximum speed and maneuverability. These saddles are much lighter than the others, the horn is thin and taller for the rider to grasp, the fork and cantle are higher to help keep the rider in place, and the fenders are free swinging so the rider can position her legs appropriately for her balance.

Tags: Belgians, Buying a Horse, Class, Gentle Giant, Healthy, Horses, Ride a Horse, Top 5 Types of Western Saddles, Western Show Clothing

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