August 08, 2004

By: Sandra Geldart
Website: http://www.happy-horse-saddles.com

Endurance saddle - Finding the right endurance saddle

Todays endurance riders take their sport very seriously, demanding that technology keep up with the competitive requirements of the sport. An endurance saddle must meet or exceed the demands put on these horses in competition over long grueling miles. Saddle makers are always improving the design of the endurance saddle to keep up with the changing market.

Although an endurance saddle is built on either an english of western tree, there are some very obvious differences. With stirrups wider and set back in a more centered position, and with no horn, to allow the riders freedom of movement, these saddles are a breed apart. The rigging of these saddles is much more centered and does not put all the pressure right near the horse’s withers, as western saddles tend to.

A few saddle makers have turned to the new design of a treeless endurance saddle. Some riders find that these treeless models are lighter and allow a more natural way of going. Treeless saddles are built on the concept of layers of soft leather providing the basis of the saddle, instead of the traditional rigid wooden of fibreglass trees we are all so used to. While only time will tell if treeless is the way to go, endurance saddles are here to stay.

About The Author:

Sandra Geldart is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.happy-horse-saddles.com.  With a degree in Equine Science Technology, Sandra brings you 27 years experience working with horses including showing horses and barrel racing.