How to Measure Western Saddle Seats

Shopping for a new Western saddle can be confusing. There are many different styles of Western saddles, from barrel racing saddles and pleasure saddles to show saddles and reining saddles. But no matter what style saddle you prefer, you need to measure the seat carefully before you make your purchase.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle stand
  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the Western saddle on a sturdy stand. This makes it easier to get an accurate seat measurement.

    • 2

      Locate the back of the pommel. The pommel is the front of the saddle--the part the saddle horn rests on.

    • 3

      Hold your hand just behind the pommel at a height even with the back of the saddle. Take the measuring tape in your hand.

    • 4

      Extend the measuring tape to the middle of the cantle. The cantle is the back of the saddle, right behind the actual seat.

    • 5

      Read the measuring tape. This is the size of the saddle seat.