by Maureen Bordelon

Created on: November 04, 2008   Last Updated: July 14, 2010

A Western saddle is as unique to an individual as a fingerprint. Whether a weekend trail rider or an intense competitor, there is the perfect saddle waiting for you. Unlike the past, saddle makers now offer a variety of options sure to suit your needs.

The basic types of Western saddles are:

Trail or Pleasure Saddles

Trail or pleasure saddles are designed with comfort in mind. They can be made of durable leather or synthetic material. These saddles usually have in skirt rigging and numerous latigo ties for your gear on the trail. Gel padded seats, lowered cantles, and lightweight saddle trees are just a few of your options. The majority of the Western enthusiasts are leisure riders. This saddle is by far, the best seller.

Barrel Racing Saddles

If your need is speed, a barrel racing saddle is undeniably your choice. These saddles are designed for security at high speeds and nimble turns. High cantles, tall saddle horns, and short skirts are a must for any barrel saddle. Rough-out suede leather seats are usually standard for added security. Like the trail saddle, the barrel racer can find a saddle made in either synthetic or leather materials.

Reining Saddles

Reining is the hottest sport of Western riding enthusiasts. Because of the intricate maneuvers required of the sport, the reining saddle offers close contact between rider and horse. The seat is flatter to allow for easier hip movement. Saddle horns are markedly lower from other types as are the pommels in order for rein movement without interference. Even if you don't compete in the sport, but enjoy feeling your horse's movement underneath you, this may be a good choice. These saddles are almost always made of leather.

Roping/Ranch Saddles

Got cows? This is undeniably your choice. These saddles are usually quite heavy (some over 50 pounds!) with very sturdy saddle trees. For roping, the seats can be suede and pocketed, while the rancher prefers a slick, deeper seat. Each type has tough rigging to withstand long hours and a heavy workload. The roping/ranch saddle is preferred more often by men than women. Because of the demands placed on the saddle, they are constructed of durable, strong leather.

Show Saddles

If bling is your thing and you're a serious competitor, then a show saddle is a must. The show saddle has very intricate tooling. The pommel, cantle, skirt, horn and stirrups are adorned with silver. The seat is usually padded suede with equitation in mind. These saddles are made of leather only and

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