A Brief Explanation Of Saddlery

By John Peterson


A dictionary will define saddlery in one of three ways. The primary definition is the bits and pieces, or tack, utilised while riding a horse. A secondary definition is the making and repairing of those previously mentioned items. Thirdly is the location where all of this is carried out, including selling the items.

The vast majority of these items are manufactured from leather. So it is a highly specialised field, and not something that can be done by the average person. This also includes the repairs to things like the stitching.

The main part that everyone thinks of is the saddle itself. This is the seat that the rider sits on whilst riding a horse. It is positioned on the horse's back, and is secured by use of either girth or cinch straps.

To prevent excessive movement a saddle should be matched to both rider and horse. Not only will this make things more comfortable for both of them, but it could also prevent possible accidents. Also if a saddle is fitted badly, it is possible that pressure points could develop on the horse's back area.

Saddles will normally come in one of two forms. They will either be an 'English' or a 'Western' saddle. As to which one a rider will use will largely depend upon how the horse is going to be ridden. It is true there are also other highly specialised types of saddle.

A person will observe the stirrups fixed to either side of the saddle. These have a dual purpose. The main one being to give the rider a greater sense of stability. They will also be utilised to help control the horse whilst its being ridden.

The principle form of horse control is of course via the reins. These are the leather ropes that the rider grips, with the other ends being affixed to the harness worn around a horse's head. Depending on both the horse and rider, these harnesses can take on different configurations.

The head harness is designed so that the horse can be guided whilst being ridden. It will also allow a person to lead a horse while walking. Some designs will used a bit, whereas others will omit this part.

As you can see there is more to saddlery than first meets the eye. This is why it is so important that any purchases or repairs are done at a proper place by a qualified person. It makes sense to you, and it makes sense to your horse, to have things done properly.




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