What Is a Flex Tree in a Saddle?

The flex tree was the response to the horseback riders' desire for a lighter, more flexible saddle to perform intricate tasks such as barrel racing and team penning. Most saddles constructed and sold possess some form of flex tree.

  1. Saddle Tree

    • A saddle tree runs underneath the pommel (the front) and cantle (the back) of a saddle in the form of two bars. It provides stability and a base for the rest of the saddle components.

    Old Construction

    • Older saddles use fiberglass or metal to form the saddle tree, which increases the chances of horses suffering tender backs and sores. The construction hindered the horse's movement, making for a stiffer, bumpier ride.

    Flex Construction

    • The flex tree uses a softer, flexible material such as rubber, steel or wood to compose the bars. The tree might be padded with materials such as neoprene, rubber or foam.

    Benefits

    • Flex tree conforms to the horse's back, providing a more comfortable ride for the rider and horse. The saddle allows the horse more freedom of movement. The lighter construction puts the rider and horse closer and permits increased communication.

    Brands

    • Most major manufacturers of saddles such as Circle Y and Tex Tan make a version of the flex tree. The actual material varies by brand.