Inspecting and Buying a New or Used Saddle

A new western or English saddle may set you back several thousand dollars, and even a quality used one can approach the four-figure mark. With so much money on the line, it makes sense to get the best value for your money. A number of factors influence the market price of a saddle, from the reputation of the saddlery that made it to the condition of the leather and the fittings.

  1. Maker's Mark

    • Not all saddles are equally valuable, and a generic no-name saddle does not command as high a price as a saddle from a top name maker. Quality saddle makers are proud of their work, and they stamp the ones they create with their own maker's mark. On a western saddle, these maker's marks typically are found at the bottom of the stirrup leather, on the small piece of leather the excess cinch fits into, on the saddle horn, or just behind the saddle horn at the front of the seat. English saddle makers typically place their maker's marks just under the front flap. Carefully check the maker's mark, then research values for that saddle brand to determine a fair price for the new or used saddle.

    Check the Tree

    • The tree is a vital part of any saddle, and if that tree is damaged, the value of the saddle is diminished considerably. A saddle with a broken tree is unsafe for the rider and uncomfortable for the horse. Having a saddle tree replaced may be a difficult and expensive undertaking, so it is important to avoid buying a saddle with a broken tree. To test the integrity of the tree, place the saddle over your thigh, then pull as hard as you can on the sides. You should not feel any movement or hear any cracking noises. If you do, chances are the tree is damaged if not completely broken.

    Seat Size

    • Whether you buy a new or a used saddle, make sure the saddle fits your body. Both English and western saddles come in a variety of seat sizes to accommodate riders of various shapes and sizes. Generally speaking, the larger your pant size, the larger the seat size you need. When the saddle properly fits, you should not slide around on the surface or feel cramped.

    Saddle Bars

    • While a saddle that fits your body is important, it is just as essential to choose a saddle that properly fits your horse. An ill-fitting saddle can cause back issues with your mount, and cause it to become cranky and uncooperative. When you shop for a new western saddle, you probably will see the terms "QH-bars" and "semi QH bars." Full QH bars specifically are designed for Quarter Horses, who tend to be wider through the back and stockier than some smaller breeds. Full QH bars also are suitable for paints, appaloosas and other stock-type horses. Semi QH bars are more suitable for narrower built horses such as Arabians and Morgans.