How to Put on an Australian Saddle

If you want a saddle that combines the light weight and flexibility of the classic English saddle with the comfort and security of a Western saddle, an Australian saddle may be just what you are looking for. Australian saddles have long been used to carry cowboys and cowgirls through the hazards of the Outback, and these sturdy saddles are a popular choice with modern horsepeople as well.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle pad
  • Girth
  • Horse
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the saddle pad on your horse's back, making sure the pad is lying smoothly and that there are no lumps or bulges.

    • 2

      Place the saddle on top of the saddle pad just behind your horse's withers. You may need to place the saddle several times until you find the most natural spot for the saddle to sit. Australian saddles are designed to sit behind the withers where they will not interfere with the free movement of the horse's shoulder. Placing the saddle too far forward or too far back will be uncomfortable for you and your horse.

    • 3

      Reach carefully underneath your horse and grab the end of the girth. Pull the end of the girth toward you and secure it by putting the holes in the girth through the prongs on the end of the saddle fitting. Place your hand between the horse and the girth--your hand should fit snugly but not feel constricted.

    • 4

      Mount your horse and ride for a few minutes, then dismount and check the girth. The girth may have loosened up a bit, especially if your horse tends to hold its breath while the cinch is tightened. Adjust the cinch so that it is snug but not tight, then remount your horse and continue your ride.