Buying a western saddle

[RoxR]

Hi Everyone!

I am hoping to be able to buy a western saddle soon (if that bonus from work comes through;) ) and I have already had some advice about fitting, and I've read some interesting articles (including the one on saddling up on this site).

Unfortunately I'm not sure that i will be able to afford to get a saddle from a store, so I may have to consider a second hand one. I know that there are a lot of "cheap" western saddles available - eg "saddle & bridle only £150" on a market stall!!! It is possible that these may be OK, but as I want to enter WES shows I'm not sure they'd be suitable....

The problem is, how could I tell that a saddle advertised in the paper for £200 is really worth £400 and not £150??? What do I look out for? I would have a fairly good idea if it was an english saddle, but there are so many extra bits and pieces on a western saddle that i just wouldn't be sure!!

Your advice would be appreciated!!
Thanks!

RoxR (Season's greetings to you all!)

[Outrider]

Ask the kind of tree it has. Wood or rawhide is best. Beware of fiberglass. Make sure it is solid. Is the pommel secure? Are all the straps in good shape, not worn leather. Make sure it comes with both a front and back girth and if the breast collar matches if it comes with one. Check the stirrup leathers for wear up under the leather. Check everywhere that is sewn for wear or breakage.

Buying a used saddle is like buying a used car and worse. At least most car dealerships will fix problems a used car has. Most places that deal in used tack won't. Also, get a guarantee that if you take it and it doesn't fit, you can return it. Happy Trails!

[raeychelle]

Do you have any knowledgeable friends that you could take with you to look at the saddle? I went to an auction and was ready to buy a saddle but my more experienced friend told me that they were cheaply made mexican saddles and the leather had not been treated properly. Apparently the mexican leather is treated with urine of all things.

I am using a friend's western saddle that she got for Cdn $15.00 about 20 years ago, so the life of the saddle can be very lengthy if it is cared for properly.

The seat can be made of either a suede or a smooth leather. If you choose the suede, it provides added 'stick' if you plan to do any barrel racing etc. where you will need to stay put in the saddle. However, the suede doesn't stand up as well in the rain.

I presume that you are from England, as it seems that this site is mostly centered around that area of the world. I live in Canada, so the rain is not as big a factor when choosing a saddle.

I have treated the saddle I use with Neat's foot oil as this helps to preserve the leather and keep it flexible.

Hope you find a good one.

[hunters4ever]

If you don't plan on showing, you can get a nice saddle package, saddle, bridle, and breastplate, for around $800. There is ususally no, or very little silves, so not really appropriate for larger shows, but okay if you are just starting out. I would rather pay a little more to know that I am getting a good saddle instead of buying a used one.

[ponynut]

My other half is trying to persuade me to buy a western saddle for his mare.
He wants a synthetic Wintec one (about 269 pounds sterling)
Has anyone any experience of these? I love the Wintec GP saddles and will happily agree with it as he is so keen. But would like any feedback on them. Love the Stockman synthetic too!!
Cheers!

[Epona UK]

Glad to see you back Outrider.