About Horse Saddles and
Horse Blankets
Horse saddles and horse blankets are something people usually
associate together when the horse comes to mind. If you plan
to ride your horse, you'll need both. Even if you don't have
to use the horse blanket with the horse saddle, you'll still want a
horse blanket for other times. You'll want one when your
horse is kept in a drafty stall, when your horse is waiting out in
the cold weather for a show, when your horse is waiting in a
holding pen for vet's attention and it is cold outside.
When you think of buying a new horse saddle, consider the trial
period in case you'll want to return it for a better fit.
Surely you didn't think it would be as easy as just buying a
universal saddle fit for any horse or rider?
No, my unsuspecting horse friend, it is, unfortunately more
involved than that. Oh, but the journey for the proper saddle
and blanket is well worth the efforts both for you and your equine
partner. Buying a horse saddle that doesn't fit the horse,
rider, or the occasion will only cause regrets and soreness that
could be avoided by a thoughtful purchase. Ask any horse
enthusiast and you'll find that buying the proper gear is a welcome
investment!
You'll want to consider what type of riding you'll do.
Saddles are basically wood or fiberglass in frame that is covered
with leather. Although, you'll find technical advances have
allowed for the more modern synthetic material in lieu of the
leather covering. Regardless of what your saddle is
constructed of, the quality and purpose and fit are most
important. You'll want your money's worth.
There are several different choices to make before purchasing a
blanket as well. You must have a blanket under a western
saddle for the horse and rider to be comfortable during the
ride. Blankets are made for performance, for miniature
horses, and for show. Although the Navajo horse blanket is a
popular choice is the western style is a consideration, there are
others available. There are quilted blankets, foal blankets,
antisweat sheets, and cooling blankets.
For your added comfort, there are softee seats, suede seats, and
even shock absorbers, which might be welcomed after a lengthy time
away from riding because of medical reasons. Whatever type of
horse saddle or horse blanket you'll require be certain both will
best benefit you and your horse.
The saddle must fit not only the size of the horse, but the size
and shape of the rider as well. A poor fit can cause sure
muscles, blisters, and bruising for you both. Not only should
you consider this for yourself, but for children riders. The
child will continue to grow, but the saddle should fit them at
their current size.
Saddles used for other than pleasure riding include those bought
for endurance, show, roping, barrel races, and ponies. There
are many different brands of all these types of saddles. It's
a matter of choice, price, and availability. Happy
hunting!
|