Soft Saddles for Horses

No matter what style of riding you prefer or what breed of horse you own, you need to make sure the saddle you choose fits your horse's back properly. A well-fitted saddle will distribute the weight of the rider evenly, while a poorly fitted one can pinch the horse and result in a sore back and an unruly mount. Many riders feel that soft saddles provide greater comfort to horse and rider alike.

  1. Nylon Saddles

    • Nylon saddles can provide a number of advantages over traditional leather styles, including lighter weight and greater comfort for the rider and the horse. Unlike a leather saddle, a saddle that uses nylon as its main material can be cleaned up with just soap and water. The fact that they are so easy to clean makes these saddles a particular favorite with trail riders, who must often cross streams and standing water while mounted.

    Synthetic Leather Saddles

    • Synthetic leather saddles are another popular choice for riders who prefer soft saddles. Like nylon saddles, synthetic leather models are easy to clean and are not damaged if they get wet. But synthetic leather saddles also have a more traditional look, making them a better choice for horse shows and other judged competitions.

    Treeless Saddles

    • While traditional saddles use a fiberglass, rawhide or wooden tree to spread the weight of the rider evenly over the horse's back, treeless saddles do not. Treeless saddles approximate the feel of riding bareback, while providing the rider with the security of a saddle. As with any saddle, the key to getting the proper treeless saddle is to make sure it fits your horse's back. Measuring your horse carefully and providing those measurements to the saddle maker is the best way to ensure a proper fit.