How to Add Thigh Support Rolls to a Western Saddle

Thigh support rolls are generally called bucking rolls. They are added to the front of a western style saddle to give the rider a greater sense of security in staying in the saddle. Because they are softer than built-in swells, thigh support rolls are often more comfortable for the rider and provide versatility as well; a rider can remove and attach thigh rolls as needed depending on the purpose of his riding.

Things You'll Need

Western saddle
Set of thigh support or bucking rolls
Screwdriver (if attached with screws)

Instructions

- 1
  Determine which type of saddle to which the thigh support rolls will be attached. A slick fork or A-fork saddle does not have prominent swells, leaving the front of the saddle open and providing greater freedom of movement to the rider. It will be easier to attach thigh support rolls to a slick fork saddle than a swell fork saddle.
- 2
  Purchase a set of thigh support rolls. Thigh support rolls are easily purchased online or through a tack store. Due to the wide variety of preferences for size, leather work, hardness, and decorative elements, a rider may elect to have a leather worker custom build the rolls as well. Thigh support rolls should conform to the saddle, so be sure to know the characteristics of the saddle when ordering.
- 3
  Determine how thigh support rolls attach to the saddle. All rolls are either screwed to the saddle or attached with saddle strings.
- 4
  Place thigh support rolls across the front of the saddle. Rolls should simulate a swell. Adjust the connecting strap between the rolls as needed to conform to the saddle.
- 5
  Attach rolls to saddle. If rolls attach with screws, the screws are generally already in the saddle; simply remove the screws, run through the corresponding holes on the rolls, and screw back into the saddle. If rolls are attached with strings, it may be necessary to undo the existing strings on the saddle so that the strings on the rolls can be tied in their place.