EquiResource

Getting ready to ride your horse? You'll need a horse saddle and horse blanket. Even if you don't use a horse blanket with the saddle, you'll still want a horse blanket for other uses, such as to provide warmth or cover for your horse.

When looking at a saddle, ask if you could have a trial period. You want to be sure that the saddle is a fit for both you and your horse. A saddle that isn't a great fit for you, the horse, or your riding style can cause soreness and discomfort. This can be avoided by doing your homework at the start!

Think about your riding activities when looking for a horse saddle. Saddles are usually wood or fiberglass material covered with leather. Instead of leather, some modern saddles are now covered with synthetic materials. Saddles can be a big investment (and one you'll have for a long time) so be sure it's a great fit.

A few considerations for horse blankets include the riding activity and the blanket material. A horse blanket is essential for a western saddle to ensure comfort for both horse and rider. Whether you have performance horses, miniature horses, or show horses there are a variety of horse blankets to choose from. While the Navajo horse blanket is popular for western style, other types of blankets include foal blankets and cooling blankets.

For your added comfort, there are softee seats, suede seats, and even shock absorbers - these are good for extensive and lengthy riding. Just as a proper fit is essential for a saddle, having the right blanket is a must.

The size and shape of the rider is a factor in choosing the right saddle. A saddle that does not fit well can cause sure muscles, blisters, and bruising for you both. Not only should you consider this for yourself, but for young child riders. Though the child will continue to grow, the saddle should fit them at their current size.

Saddles are available for other riding activities such as endurance, show, roping and barrel racing. Price and availability are also important factors to consider in your horse saddle and horse blanket purchases.