Posts Tagged ‘rodeo competitions’

Saddlery is a precise craft, for there is a saddle to suit every need, whether for work, recreation or exhibition. Horse Bridles Of the varieties that are found within equestrian circles are dressage saddles, treeless saddles, English saddles and the Western saddle. double bridle With each serving a specific purpose, they can be seen wherever horses are present.

The type traditionally used by the constantly working cattle rancher is the western saddle, the kind made legendary by its association with the American cowboy. It comes from the saddle of the Spanish vaqueros, early horse trainers and cattle ranchers. The western saddle is set apart from others by its high arching pommel and cantle, its fixed stirrups, and its horn, a feature that historically was used to hold the end of a rope, the other end of which was around the neck of a member of the herd. dressage bridles The western saddle is used today in all manner of rodeo competitions such as roping and barrel racing.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is the English saddle. Used in the English riding style, this saddle is found in most Olympic and equestrian competitions, although it is not limited to England. The English saddle is lighter than the western version with no horn and detachable stirrups should the rider fall. Allowing the horse the most movement and freedom to jump and run, this saddle was used historically during fox hunting. Today, English saddles are used variously in show jumping, polo, horseracing, and dressage.

Other saddle types include dressage saddles and treeless saddles. Translated as “training”, dressage is a discipline that demonstrates the efficient yet seemingly effortless movement of the horse through exercises. Lightweight and simple, dressage saddles have straight cut side flaps and a deep seat. Riders thus have very close contact with the horse and are able to cue its movements exactly. Another type, treeless saddles have a fiberglass pommel and cantle and come with a foam-padded leather seat. Also called a bareback pad, they are suited for horses with wide backs and also provide for close contact with the horse.