Did you know that we fit english dressage and iberian saddles with western trees too!
Why should you choose a saddle with a western tree?
What is a saddle tree?
Horses are not built be be ridden. Their backs and their spines are not designed to carry weight so we need to help them to carry us comfortably by distributing our weight across as large an area as possible so we don't create high pressure points and cause pain. A bit like you being on your hands and knees and someone pressing down with their fists on your back close to your shoulder blades - ouch!!
The rigid saddle tree distributes your weight across the horse's back. But not all trees are created equal....
An english tree
There are now many styles of tree but this is a typical english saddle tree. The A shape goes over the wither and the curved section over the back. It is padded with leather on top to form the seat and with wool or foam or air underneath to cushion the horse (the panel flocking). Your weight will pass mainly through those thin wooden sections to the horse.
A western tree
This is a typical western tree and would be padded in leather on top to form the seat and lined with leather and sheepskin underneath. The panels and flocking are created by using a thick saddle pad. The areas that touch the horse are much larger than the english tree so the weight distribution is much better and there are no sharp points.
An english saddle
This is a typical english saddle. Note the size of areas that will be touching the horse.
A western saddle
These are typical western saddles, the area touching the horse is much larger therefore the weight distribution is much better, which is much better news for your horse!
English tree shapes
There is no industry standard for how to describe an english saddle. The angle of the tree points ie the wither angle, can be described as narrow, medium wide, wide extra wide etc etc but the actual angles change from brand to brand and there is no way of describing the shape of the seat, some brands suit curvier backs more than others, that's as good as it gets!
Western tree shapes
I have over 300 tree shapes to choose from, each with their own detailed specification. During a holistic fitting I will select a tree with a good fit and then make a note of the tiny adjustments that need to be made to make the tree the best fit it can possibly be across every angle of the horse's back.
The difference between a suit jacket from Next and one from Savile Row!!
Ride like a cowboy in jeans and boots?
Well yes of course! But this is just the icing on the cake when you choose a western saddle! In simple terms, when properly fitted, a western saddle is more comfortable for your horse than an english saddle and your horse will thank you for it!
A western tree does not mean a western saddle!
A western tree does not mean a western saddle!
Not just for cowboys!! I fit english dressage (BD legal) and iberian saddles for that traditional look, but with all the advantages of a western tree! Unique in the UK to the Western Saddler team!!
Common questions about western saddles
Does it have to have a horn and look western?
No, western trees are not just for cowboys! We offer a full range of traditional western saddles but we also fit english dressage style (BD legal) and iberian saddles with english girth rigging and stirrups but with a western tree - the best of both worlds!
Will it put me in a chair seat?
Most western saddles will put you in a relaxed dressage position with a longer leg and shoulder, hip, heel alignment but you can also go for a saddle that sits you back on your pockets in a more slouched position if you prefer.
Are they comfortable, is the seat very hard?
Most people find them extremely comfortable especially for longer rides and the seats can be padded to give more twist and extra comfort. I have seen good results for people with back, knee, hip and ankle pain as the saddle puts your body in a good position and holds you there.
Can I jump in a western saddle?
You can pop a log out hacking but can't do a showjumping round, the horn gets in the way and can be painful! If you like the occasional jump choose a saddle with a small horn like the buckaroo.
Will I have to buy a whole new set of tack?
Not quite! You'll need a shimmed western saddle pad, cinch (girth) and breast collar as well as the saddle, fenders and stirrups. You won't need to change your bridle.
Do I need to learn to ride differently?
Western riding is a different technique to english so you could retrain if you wanted to but your horse will still understand your cues as they did in your english saddle.
Can I compete in a western saddle?
You won't be able to compete in dressage or jumping events but you can compete in TREC, working equitation, horseback archery, endurance etc. Western riding has its own competitions so it opens up a whole new range of opportunities to compete.
They look big, are they suitable for short backed horses?
Yes, we can usually adjust a tree so that isn't too long. As with english saddles, it does depend on the needs of the rider as well as the horse.
Are they expensive?
A western saddle starts at around £2,200, about the same as a good english saddle. The saddle pads are more expensive than an english pad but everything I recommend is top quality and will last a lifetime if looked after. If you like to replace your saddle pads every season with the latest colours this may not be the best option for you!!
Are they heavy?
Yes they are heavier than an english saddle but the larger weight bearing area means they put less localised pressure on your horse's back. They are also superb quality and will last.
Did you know that a well fitting saddle with a western tree is more comfortable for your horse than a saddle with an english tree? Read on to find out more or drop me a line! Alison x