10 Parts of the English & Western Saddle

English and Western saddles have a variety of parts and components that make up the structure. Though both types of saddles have some marked differences, there are a number of components that they have in common. It is important for new riders to learn the basic parts of a saddle and their function.

  1. Basic Saddle Structure

    • The saddle tree is the basic structure around which the saddle is built. The tree provides the frame for the saddle and helps balance out and distribute weight across the horse's back. Saddle trees come in a variety of different sizes and are made out of various materials.

      The gullet is the channel found along the bottom side of the saddle. It is located directly over the horse's back bone to keep the saddle from sitting on the horse's spine.

      The bars are part of the saddle tree, and they determine the width of the gullet as well as the angle at which the saddle tree comes into contact with the horse's back.

    The Seat

    • The seat of the saddle is where the rider sits when riding. The seat is measured in inches and different size riders must select the correct size saddle seat; otherwise, riding is extremely uncomfortable. The seat is made out of leather or synthetic leather in English saddles, and leather, suede or various synthetic materials on a Western saddle.

      The pommel, which is sometimes called the swell, is located at the front of the saddle where the front part of the tree comes together.

      The cantle is located at the back of the saddle's seat. It works to anchor the tree and provide the rider additional security and support. The lip of the cantle keeps riders from sliding off the back of the saddle.

    Stirrups

    • The stirrups are where the rider places her feet while riding. Stirrups help provide balance and security.

      In a Western saddle, the stirrup is attached to the bottom of a long fender. On an English saddle, the stirrup is attached to the stirrup leather, a strap of leather that runs between the stirrup bar and the stirrup. It's exclusive purpose is to hold the stirrup on the saddle.

    Additional Parts

    • English saddles are held onto the horse by using billet straps and a girth. The billet straps are located underneath the saddle flap on either side of the saddle. The girth attaches to two of the three straps on either side.

      Western saddles are held on using a cinch, and a leather or nylon strap. The strap is run through a pair of D-rings attached to both the saddle and the cinch. Western saddles also feature saddle horns, which come out of the pommel and are used either for extra balance or for dallying a rope.