Horses are equipped with various tools to prepare for riding. Among these, the saddle is one of the most important pieces of tack for equestrian activities. While a horse’s body is large, riding on its back places a significant burden, making the saddle indispensable.
Before riding, the necessary equipment is mounted onto the horse, a process called horse tack-up. Many beginners may find this process challenging or feel apprehensive about it.
Here, we will explain how to properly attach and remove a saddle, which is essential for riding.
What is a Saddle?
In English, it is called a ‘SADDLE’. Simply put, a saddle is a removable seat used to ride a horse. The saddle helps maintain balance during riding and ensures safety for both rider and horse.
In historical Japan, there were designs like the Kara-kuwa and Yamato-kuwa, but nowadays Western saddles are most common. Western saddles feature a seat with a pommel, saddle seat, cantle, and stirrup leathers, with additional straps like the flank and knee rolls.
We also use the term ‘saddle’ to refer to the number of riding sessions, e.g., one session is called ‘one saddle’ rather than a single ride.
Role and Types of Saddles
Saddles are essential tack items for riding. Do you know the roles and types of saddles? Have you ever casually attached a saddle to a horse without understanding its purpose?
Understanding the roles and types of saddles is vital for correctly enjoying riding. If you’re planning to purchase your own tack, it’s important to familiarize yourself with different saddle types.
Here, we introduce the roles and types of saddles.
Roles of Saddles
Originally, saddles were developed not only for riding animals but also as load-carrying devices designed to fit the animal’s body, preventing cargo from falling during movement. They were crafted to ensure stability and security.
Riding directly on a horse’s body is unstable. To facilitate safe movement for both horse and rider, saddles are used to reduce the burden on the horse and ensure safety. Although horses are large, carrying a rider puts a significant burden on their back.
Saddles are also tools to lighten the load on the horse. They are designed to help riders maintain balance for longer periods and to prevent instability while on the horse.
Types of Saddles
Saddles are mainly divided into British and Western styles.
Within British saddles, there are three types depending on the discipline: dressage saddles, jumping saddles, and all-purpose saddles.
Dressage saddles have a deep seat for stability and are comfortable for long rides, characterized by a higher cantle. Jumping saddles have a shallower seat and a lower cantle to prevent the rider from hitting the horse’s back when jumping. All-purpose saddles can be used for both disciplines, often used in riding clubs for their versatility.
Western saddles are further categorized into Western and Side-Saddle.
Western saddles are heavy but stable, with a wide and deep seat designed for comfort during long hours. They feature a horn for balance, originally used by cowboys on rough terrains. Side-Saddles are worn on the side and allow women to mount without straddling the horse, but require twisting the body and placing weight on one side, which can be strenuous for the horse. Today, they are less common with the prevalence of riding in pants.
Western style is popular among beginners due to its stability and ease of riding, especially for outdoor rides.
Since saddles are expensive, many start by renting from riding clubs. However, owning a saddle that fits you well after prolonged riding offers a significantly more comfortable experience. When purchasing, it’s recommended to try riding with the saddle first to check fit and comfort.
Saddles can be purchased from riding clubs, specialized stores, or online stores. When buying online, check if they offer trial rides.
Is it Necessary for Beginners to Attach and Remove Saddles?
Even beginners who plan to ride regularly should learn how to attach and remove the saddle.
Some beginners may feel uneasy about saddle attachment and removal, which is understandable since improper handling can lead to injuries.
Additionally, some may still be unfamiliar with handling horses, which, despite being gentle animals, are large and may react aggressively if upset, potentially biting or kicking.
However, mastering saddle attachment and removal is crucial. Repeated practice is necessary to become proficient.
Furthermore, being able to do it yourself allows you to check equipment before riding, reducing risks. Learning to attach and remove the saddle on your own is an important safety measure.
How to Remove a Saddle
Riding doesn’t end after dismounting. You are responsible for removing the saddle properly.
Follow these steps to remove the saddle:
- Loosen the girth from the left side and unbuckle the left buckle.
- Proceed to the right side, unbuckle the right buckle.
- Remove the saddle, gel pad, and saddle cloth in order.
After removing the saddle, it’s good practice to brush and groom the horse, checking for any injuries.
If using the club’s saddle, cleaning may not be necessary, but for your own saddle, regular maintenance is important. Remove dirt and sweat thoroughly, and apply leather conditioner.
How to Attach a Saddle
Attaching a saddle is not just placing it on the horse. When starting out, your instructor will assist, but as you continue riding, you must learn how to do it yourself.
Follow these steps to attach a saddle:
- Place the saddle cloth on the horse’s withers.
- Put on the girth (or gel pad, depending on the horse’s needs).
- Position the saddle on the horse’s back.
- Lift the saddle slightly and create a gap between the saddle and the horse’s back.
- Secure the girth, tightening it to prevent the saddle from slipping.
Before attaching the saddle, observe the horse to ensure it is calm and not showing signs of distress.
If the horse shows signs of irritation or upset, soothe it with gentle words or wait until it calms down.
Whether using a gel pad or saddle pad depends on the horse, so follow the club’s instructions. Also, creating a gap between the saddle cloth and the horse’s back helps prevent chafing and injury.
When tightening the girth, do it gradually and carefully to avoid startling the horse. Some horses dislike the girth, so proceed with patience. If the horse becomes unruly, ask the instructor for assistance.
This covers the basic process of saddle attachment. Always follow your riding club’s specific procedures.
Summary
How was it?
Saddles are essential tack for safe riding, helping to reduce injury risks. Understanding how to correctly attach and remove carbles is crucial, especially for beginners. While it may seem challenging at first, practicing will improve your skills and deepen your communication with the horse. Consider it an opportunity to bond with your horse by mastering saddle handling skills.