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Security
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Riders often feel that a suede seat provides more grip and security than a smooth leather one. With a smooth leather seat, the rider can move around a lot in the saddle, especially if the seat size is large. A suede seat tends to offer a bit more security, which can be very important on a young or skittish horse.
Comfort
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Many riders find a suede saddle seat more comfortable, particularly in cold weather. A smooth leather seat can be extremely cold in the winter, but the suede tends to hold on to the heat more and absorb the rider's body heat more effectively. Many suede seated saddles also have more padding under the seat surface than smooth leather varieties, and can provide a more comfortable ride, especially if you spend hours in the saddle.
Cleaning
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Suede saddle seats are harder to clean than smooth leather ones. With a smooth leather seat, you can just wipe it off with a damp cloth, then condition it with some saddle soap and leather conditioner. But a suede saddle seat requires a special suede cleaner, and a special brush to work the cleaner into the hide and keep it soft and supple. This can make a saddle with a suede seat more costly and time-consuming to take care of than one with a smooth leather surface.
Wear
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Over time, a suede saddle seat can wear and lose its security and comfort advantages. The suede on the saddle seat can begin to wear smooth, making the saddle slippery and uncomfortable. This can be a particular problem if you use the saddle every day. You may also see premature wear on the seat if you fail to take care of the suede properly -- for example, if the seat is allowed to get wet and not dried properly.
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Pros & Cons of Suede Western Saddle Seats
From small and lightweight barrel racing saddles to roping saddles designed for heavy use, there are saddles for just about every equine discipline. However, the seat can be very important no matter what type of saddle you choose. Both suede and leather seats have their advantages and disadvantages.