Get to know the essential parts of a western saddle with this comprehensive guide. Plus, have some fun testing your knowledge with a quiz at the end.
Table of Contents Toggle
When I was a kid, I loved trail riding and had a weekly English lesson. My mom handled most of the logistics—she bought my horse and saddle, took care of his farrier appointments, feeding, and even mucking stalls. I’d just show up for my lessons, load him up for trail rides, and hop in the truck. I never really thought about the “details” of horseback riding.
Now that I’m an adult and have the chance to write articles like this, I’m learning so much. First off, I learned that my mom spoiled me rotten! I also learned that I never took the time to dive into all the parts of a saddle. Sure, I knew the horn was for hanging on when things got a little wild, and the stirrups were where my feet went, but that was about it. The amazing thing about horses is that there’s always something new to learn.
At our local 4-H fair this year, the judge had the riders dismount and asked them trivia questions, including some about saddles. Only one of the 4-H kids could answer her questions. So, if you’re nearby and might encounter this judge in the future, keep reading—you’ll be all set for her.
I’m going to walk you through what I’ve learned about each part of the western saddle.
A saddle horn is a prominent feature on a western saddle, and it’s not just there for you to hang on to when your horse gets a little too spirited. There are various shapes and sizes of horns, each designed for specific uses. For instance, trail riding and reining saddles typically have large, round horns, while cutting and barrel racing saddles feature thinner, taller horns. Roping saddles have thick, wrapped horns that help maintain control over heavy livestock. On the other hand, English-style saddles, like dressage and hunt seat saddles, don’t have a horn at all. This is because English riding involves fewer sharp turns, so riders don’t need that extra grip for balance. Each style serves its purpose, reflecting the unique demands of the riding discipline.
Think About It: It’s always best to use a mounting block to reduce strain on a horse’s back. However, if you need to mount from the ground, make sure to position yourself alongside the horse, facing the saddle. Use your horse’s mane for support and avoid pulling on the saddle horn. This approach helps keep your saddle from slipping and ensures a smoother mounting process for both you and your horse.
The pommel is the front part of the saddle, and its shape and size can vary depending on the saddle’s intended use. In a western saddle, the pommel helps prevent the rider from sliding forward. In contrast, English saddles typically feature a lower pommel, which offers a different riding experience suited to their style.
The gullet is the space beneath the pommel, positioned just above the horse’s withers. The design of the pommel and the angle of the bars on the saddle tree determine the gullet’s height and shape. When shopping for a saddle, it’s crucial to use a gullet gauge to measure your horse and find the right size.
Think About It: Wearing a backpack with straps that are too tight or too loose while loaded with books would be uncomfortable. An ill-fitting saddle can lead to similar issues, potentially causing behavior problems in your horse. Always ensure your saddle fits properly. There are many helpful videos online that can guide you on measuring your horse and saddle, but the best approach is to consult a saddle fitter for expert advice.
Also Read: Western Saddle Fit Made Simple
The seat rise is the raised portion of the seat located directly behind the pommel. This incline helps riders maintain proper position in the saddle, providing additional support and stability while riding. A well-designed seat rise can enhance comfort and aid in effective communication with your horse.
The seat is the lowest part of the saddle where the rider sits. It’s a crucial component for comfort and balance while riding. If you ever find yourself in a saddle trivia situation, this is one question you’ll definitely want to get right!
Saddle Fitting Tip: When searching for a new saddle, it’s just as important to ensure it fits you well. Use an online saddle fitting calculator or consult with a saddle fitter to determine the appropriate length for your saddle. Once you have an idea, be sure to try out different options to find the one that feels most comfortable for you.
The cantle is the back part of the saddle, and its height can vary based on the saddle’s intended use. For example, ranch and cutting saddles often feature a higher cantle to provide back support, helping to keep the rider securely in place during fast movements. In contrast, trail and show saddles typically have a lower cantle, allowing for more freedom of movement.
The skirt is the material at the back of the saddle, behind the seat. It provides stability and helps reduce pressure on the horse’s back from the rider’s weight. Western saddles come in various skirt shapes and lengths, so it’s important to ensure the skirt fits your horse properly. Additionally, always use a saddle pad that complements the skirt for optimal comfort.
The front cinch is the thicker strap that keeps the saddle securely in place. In English saddles, this is called a girth.
Saddle Fitting Tip: It’s essential to have the correct size cinch for your horse, as there are sensitive nerves along the belly and sides. You want to avoid any direct pressure from knots or buckles along these areas. Also, if you ride both western and English, keep in mind that the cinch and girth will be different lengths since they buckle at different places.
These metal pieces are where your latigo and billet connect to the saddle, providing stability and support for the cinch.
The latigo is the leather or nylon strap that connects the cinch to the saddle. You can tie it in a knot for security, or if it has holes, use it with the cinch’s buckle.
After securing your latigo with a buckle or knot, pull the excess strap through the strap holder or billet keeper to keep it off the ground.
Some riders use a back cinch, while others don’t. It helps prevent the saddle from bouncing which protects the horse’s lower back. If you use a back cinch, there should be about an inch of space between it and the horse’s belly. You can also connect a cinch hobble between the front and back cinch to keep it secure and prevent it from sliding into the horse’s flank.
The fender is what you adjust to “change the length of your stirrups.” It connects the stirrup to the saddle and is wide enough to keep your legs from touching the horse’s sides.
Pro Tip: If you’re using a leather saddle, it’s a good idea to keep the leather conditioned to maintain the flexibility of the fenders. This can help improve your comfort while riding. Additionally, there are videos online that demonstrate alternative methods for twisting the leather straps in the back, which can help keep the fender turned outward and reduce pressure on your legs.
The stirrup is where you rest your feet, helping you mount your horse and providing stability while riding.
Saddle Fitting Tip: When it comes to stirrups, there are various sizes and shapes designed to complement different riding disciplines. It’s important to choose stirrups that properly fit your feet to ensure safety, comfort, and stability while riding. A good fit will enhance your overall riding experience and help you maintain better control.
This strap, made of leather or nylon, wraps around the fender at the bottom to keep your stirrup in place.
These straps at the back of the saddle can be used to tie up saddle bags or simply for decoration. The conchos are the silver pieces that the straps are connected to.
While not technically part of the saddle, the breastplate fits around your horse’s chest and connects to the saddle. It helps prevent the saddle from sliding backward, especially when going uphill or jumping. This added stability is important for maintaining a secure fit while riding in more strenuous conditions.
Pro Tip: A neck strap helps keep the breast collar off the shoulder and provides an extra place to hang on to if your horse gets a little wild.
Whew, that’s a lot to take in! I’ve always found that using new vocabulary in everyday situations really helps me remember what those words mean. You don’t have to tackle it all at once—start slow. Pick three terms from this article that you didn’t know before, and when you saddle up your horse this week, say them out loud as you go.
If you don’t have a horse to saddle or just want some extra practice, here is a quiz you can try to test your knowledge of western saddle parts. See answers at the bottom of this page.
1. What is the primary purpose of the saddle horn in a western saddle?
a) To help with mounting b) To provide grip during riding c) To tie ropes d) B and C
2. Which type of saddle typically features a lower pommel?
a) Western saddle b) Dressage saddle c) Roping saddle d) Barrel racing saddle
3. What does the gullet refer to in a saddle?
a) The area under the pommel above the horse’s withers b) The back part of the saddle c) The part where you rest your feet d) The leather strap connecting the cinch
4. Why is it important to have the correct size front cinch?
a) To keep your stirrups in place b) To prevent pressure on sensitive areas of the horse c) To enhance the saddle’s appearance d) All of the above
5. What is the role of the seat rise in a saddle?
a) To help with mounting b) To provide back support c) To maintain proper riding position d) To hold the stirrups
6. Which part of the saddle helps reduce pressure on the horse’s back from the rider’s weight?
a) Cantle b) Skirt c) Gullet d) Fender
7. What is the function of the latigo?
a) To connect the saddle to the stirrup b) To secure the cinch to the saddle c) To adjust the height of the cantle d) To keep the saddle pad in place
8. How can a back cinch benefit the rider and horse?
a) It adds extra decoration b) It provides a place to hang equipment c) It helps keep the saddle from bouncing d) It makes mounting easier
9. What is a common use for tie-down straps on a saddle?
a) To secure the saddle to the horse b) To tie up saddle bags or for decoration c) To connect the stirrups d) To adjust the seat height
10. What is a breastplate’s primary function?
a) To make the saddle look nice b) To prevent the saddle from sliding backward c) To provide additional storage d) To help with dismounting
Answers:
1. d) All of the above 2. b) Dressage saddle 3. a) The area under the pommel above the horse’s withers 4. b) To prevent pressure on sensitive areas of the horse 5. c) To maintain proper riding position 6. b) Skirt 7. b) To secure the cinch to the saddle 8. c) It helps keep the saddle from bouncing 9. b) To tie up saddle bags or for decoration 10. b) To prevent the saddle from sliding backward
This article about parts of a western saddle is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!
Ashley Sollars is a seasoned writer and editor. She has a lifelong love for horses and while she grew up riding, these days, she's more of a spectator. She delights in watching her daughter blossom into a horsewoman with her trusty paint Tuck. When they're not at the stables, you can find Ashley and her family camping, or more appropriately, “glamping. The Sollars family is active in 4H and operate Sugar Bear’s Bakery for Livestock, crafting treats for farm animals. Originally from Kentucky, Ashley attended Murray State University and now resides in Southern Indiana.
There’s only one place in North America where you can experience top international horse show…
Lexington, Ky. — Current U.S. Eventing Technical Advisor and Chef d’Equipe Bobby Costello has made…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week,…
Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 25,…
Informed horse owners would never intentionally do something that could cause their horse to colic. Yet many owners unwittingly follow…
The Akhal-Teke horse—pronounced like “apple” with a K instead of the P’s, and “techie”—is one of the rarest horse breeds…
Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 25, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated…
Making difficult care decisions for a horse that has been closer to us than many family members can be traumatizing…
There’s only one place in North America where you can experience top international horse show competition combined with all the…
On July 4, 2016, law student Leah McKeever went to the barn for a special project. She and her mom,…