There are a number of parts on your saddle setup that can be adjusted to increase safety, strength, ride efficiency and even showmanship. For example, grab handles can be placed on your saddle to increase control and stability. This is most effective when learning to ride for the first time as it gives you the opportunity to get comfortable with the movement of your horse in a safe and controlled environment.

Removable stirrups are also an excellent option for a novice as well as professional riders. Stirrups provide a footrest for riders and give them a point of leverage. When you remove your stirrups you are forced to maintain your posture and balance using just your upper thighs. This helps to build your strength and improve your balance. It is advisable for riders of any level to practice mastering this skill as it can greatly improve your riding ability.

Stirrup bars can be bolted to the tree of your saddle as an added safety measure. If a rider falls from their horse and is unable to release themselves from the saddle they face the very real danger of being dragged by their horse which can cause serious injury or prove fatal. These bars can be placed in an open or closed position giving riders the power to release themselves in the case of an emergency. Customers really think it was designed with them in mind.

D-rings are also available when using English saddles. These rings can be used to attach equipment such as breastplates which can be used to prevent your saddle from sliding back and can also be used to show attachments when competing in a show ring. These adjustable rings can be easily pulled out of the saddle when a rider is ready to utilize them.

The cantle at the back of the saddle provides support and helps a rider to maintain control and posture. By raising the height of the cantle it increases rider security which is an excellent feature for novice riders who are just beginning to learn equitation and other riding disciplines. The extra security helps them to build confidence and protects them from easily losing their balance when riding.

Bareback pad seats tend to be rigid and uncomfortable which is why some manufacturers have used high quality materials to create a soft padded seat that adds comfort to a rider. They may also line the underside of the saddle with materials such as fleece which is not only durable but soft and offers an extra degree of comfort to your horse when you take them out for ride.

Knee rolls offer multiple degrees of comfort, for example, they provide leg support for riders which not only helps them to keep their balance. It is padded for added comfort and some feature a built in sweat flap that wicks away and sweat keeping your horse cool during various types of activities. Padded knee rolls offer additional grip and support for riders.

Panels are used to cushion the back of your horse when you place the saddle on them and greatly increases your balance and control while riding. Padded panels can be stuffed with a variety of materials which include but is not limited to wool and foam. Those materials really enhance a riders comfort.

The pommel at the front of the saddle is usually lifted higher than the seat to ensure you clear your horse’s girth and promotes a balanced more secure structure for riders. Some manufacturers have the pommel lower and pushed further forward which creates a closer ride and allows you to connect with your horse better as you are able to feel their movements.

A lightweight saddle is easier to maneuver during setup which is a great convenience for smaller riders. It also reduces the weight and strain placed on your horse. Saddles are traditionally made with materials such as leather which can be bulky and add a significant amount of weight. Materials such as wool and foam have become more widely used which not only makes the structure lighter but more comfortable for horses and riders.

The tree which is essentially the structure of the saddle is generally constructed from wood and then covered with a synthetic material for comfort, however, manufacturers have been using more synthetic materials which are not only lighter but more flexible which creates a better fit and is more versatile. They enable a rider to adjust their saddle to fit a range of horses that may differ in size, breed and wither.

A closed cell foam construction is much lighter and more flexible than bareback pad saddles. These offer benefits beyond convenience and comfort. They allow you to have a close contact ride which gives you the opportunity to have faster more precise contact with your horse as well as become more in sync with them as you will be able to feel their movements while you ride.

Leather has high tensile strength and is highly resistant to tears and abrasion. This makes it an ideal choice for the heavy-duty task of horseback riding. It ensures product longevity and durability and gives each design a sleek look that would be the envy at any equitation event.

Grain leather is one of the most commonly used types of leather and using this to construct a saddle gives it a smooth high-quality look as it has been snuffed and sanded or even buffed to remove any imperfections. It tends to be more durable than other types of leather since the grain is left in the product.

Stainless steel is a common metal used in product construction due to its strength and high level of durability. It is resistant to corrosion and is used on most saddle designs to reinforce the frame of the saddle as well as on buckles and other attachments. This not only gives them a beautiful look but it ensures your product will last and be able to withstand a wide variety of environmental conditions.

Suede is not as strong or durable as leather as its grain has been removed, however, it is soft and lightweight and used to coat areas such flaps on the saddle to produce a unique design and change of texture on your product. It adds a degree of comfort and protection for both the rider and the gear being used.

Many English saddles feature a deep padded seat which offers protection and security when riding your horse. The deeper the seat the greater the security and these seats are usually padded with materials such as foam to cushion the rider’s seat bones and add a layer of comfort which is especially useful for trail riders and novice riders who have just started learning how to keep their balance when riding.

The pommel of the saddle is generally raised higher than the seat to provide added security for riders, however, it also serves to provide clearance for the wither of your horse. Being the tallest point on the horse it’s important that the pommel fits comfortable to avoid any disruption in the motion of your horse. The wither of horses vary from size to breed and should always be measured to ensure a proper fit for optimal performance.

Saddle flaps also feature prominently on a saddle and may vary greatly with brands and design since it is supposed to mirror your leg position. These flaps help protect your feet by acting as a barrier between you and the gullets and or girth buckles. There is no reason function can’t be married to style and some brands cover this area with materials such as suede which not only increases comfort and durability but it also creates a stunning design that will look fabulous at show events.