A Short Account About 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 mainly fall into one of two categories. They are either a Western saddle or an English saddle. Depending on how the horse is going to be ridden, and for what purpose, will determine which saddle is utilised. These are just the two main types, there are others which are more specialised in their usage.

Hanging down from the saddle an individual will notice the stirrups. These can be of varying designs but still do the same two jobs. Their main job is to provide the rider with more stability. The other job is to help with controlling a horse while 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 purpose of the head harness is also twofold. It gives the rider control over a horse whilst riding. Also it will let the horse be led by somebody walking alongside. You will find that there are bit-less designs, as well as those which include the bit.

As can be clearly seen there is more to saddlery that one might initially suppose. Consequently this is a good reason to only use qualified facilities. It makes sense to both horse and rider, to have everything done professionally.




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