How to Prevent a Saddle From Squeaking While Riding

Anyone that has spent any amount of time in the saddle, knows that the creaking of leather is just a part of riding. However there are some saddles, normally light colored Western saddles, that creak and squeak so badly we stop using them. The good news is that with just a little bit of effort you can quiet the saddle and you can start enjoying it again.

Things You'll Need

  • Bick 4 oil
  • Baby powder
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the source of the squeak. Nine times out ten it is underneath the stirrup fender. Under the wide stirrup fender there is a narrow strip of leather. When weight is put on the stirrup the narrow leather strap slides across the tree, and the tension causes it to squeak.

    • 2

      Oil the strap. The reason most saddle makers and horse people hesitate when it comes oiling their light colored saddles is because they are worried that the oil will stain the leather, and it probably will. But because the narrow strap is tucked under the wide fender, no one can see, so the oil won’t change your saddle’s appearance. Just be very careful that you don’t drip any of the oil on another part of the saddle.

    • 3

      Turn your Western saddle upside down, and spread out the stirrups until the undersides are completely exposed. Sprinkle a generous amount of baby powder all over the entire underside of the finder. When you ride, the baby powder will create a slippery surface and the leather will slide smoothly and quietly.

    • 4

      Stop standing on the balls of your feet when you are riding. Open your thighs and allow your body to relax down and into the saddle. Not only will riding deeply in the saddle decrease the amount of pressure you are placing on your stirrups, but your horse will be more relaxed, and there is less of a chance you’ll fall off if your horse suddenly spooks or bolts.