Is a Horse Saddle Really a Horse Product?

It might be argued that the horse saddle is a horse product and is thought of just as being a rider product. Yet, the saddle can be as beneficial to the horse as it is to the rider.

Of course, any rider can ride a horse bareback, which one may think would be better for the horse but this is not likely the case. A horse saddle that is being purchased should be looked at for its benefits to the horse as well as the rider.

Some important factors to consider for the horse’s benefit is the size and fit as well as the weight:

• Too big: If the size of the saddle is such that it is too big or too small then it is going to put pressure on different areas of the horse’s back and can create hot spots sores and discomfort.
• Too small: If the fit of the saddle is not right then it could end up hurting the physical performance of the horse. It could affect their gait or impede them from taking some of the actions they are being commanded to do. The symmetry of the saddle should be carefully studied for the horse that it will be used on.
• Weight: The weight can play a factor if it is a young horse. Some western saddles have so many embellishments to them that it created unnecessary and additional weight.
  A good horse owner who is going to ride their horse for any purpose will pay close attention to the horse’s needs as they do their own when it comes to choosing the right saddle. This is an important and expensive horse product that should be chosen carefully.