October 06, 2004

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

How to buy a reining saddle

Reining is an event intended to show off the athletic ability of the horse. Therefore the reining horses require reining saddles that can allow the horse as much balance and freedom of movement as possible. The horse and rider must both be able to maintain the balance necessary to the horse’s agility during the reining patterns galloping, circles, spinning and sliding.

With cutouts in the skirt to enhance the level of communication between the horse and rider and the bars of the tree ground down where the rider sits, a reining saddle must provide a deeper seat and give the rider closer contact, which provides the added stability required for the stops and spins. Specifically built reining saddles have fenders that are hung from the center of the tree and the rigging is dropped in order for the latigo to lie flat against the horse, keeping the fenders from interfering with the equipment. To keep the horn from interfering with the rider's hands a reining saddles horn is narrow and lower in height.

While serious reining competitors require top quality, even custom built saddles, it is often possible to buy a good all purpose western saddle while you are starting out. An option also available to those searching for a good reining saddle is to look at used saddles. As long as you have the saddle completely checked for safety and fit, you can often find a top quality used reining saddles at prices you can afford.

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.