Leather or cloth saddle???

[Ella]

Hi My name is Ella, I am new to this board.
When I first started riding(English), I was using a leather saddle, but after a few lessons my instructor had me use a synthetic cloth saddle(some leather).
Which is better, and is there really a difference? The cloth one seems to give you a better grip w/ your legs and is softer to sit on. What do you use?
Ella

[Frances]

Hi, there.

I have a trekking centre in Shetland.

We use both types. For the beginner, the synthetic saddle gives much better grip. I prefer the leather saddle, as it gives with you and is much more comfortable and a good saddle is worth its weight in gold.

At the end of the day, it is really what fits the horse best, not what fits your bottom! Sorry, but the horse's back takes priority.

[@]

I have a wintec all-purpose and borrow a leather dressage saddle. I love the leather one for its look, comfort, and fit. I love my Wintec for its weight, practicality, not having to be washed, and ability to be used in the rain.
I find the leather fits my horse better so i usually use it, but if i was doing more non dressage things i would have a saddler restuff my wintec which would make it fit my horse better. My instructor has had her saddle for like 10 years and last year she decided to get it re-stuffed. It was really cool, the lady looked at her saddle pad, found teh dirty spots (more pressure) and adjusted likewise. It was amazing how muck happier her horse was!
I'd do it too, but i'm broke :)
I can't give you a straight answer, but you got my opinions
Allie T