Choosing The Right Saddle

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Toowoomba Saddlery has a number of saddles in its range, you may be wondering which one is best suited for you and your horse.

The information below will give you a good starting point in helping you choose your saddle.
We recommend sitting in the saddle prior to purchase where possible.

Step 1. Decide which saddle tree is most suitable.

The saddle tree is a key component, its size and shape are important to determine how the saddle will fit your horse. A Toowoomba Saddlery saddle will be made on one of four Equi-fit trees, with a 10 year conditional warranty on the saddle tree. #3 trees are wider than #2 trees, while the widest is the #3 Quarter Horse tree. The shape of the pommel area and kneepads also differs between the number #2 and #3 trees.

Specifications of each tree type are listed below, use these to assist you in determining which tree is most suited to your horse. Need further help with this? Contact Toowoomba Saddlery or your local saddlery store. It can be helpful to see photos of your horse from different angles, and/or a wither tracing.

We are frequently asked what is the difference between the #2 and the #3 saddle trees: The #2 is narrower through the gullet, with smaller knee pads that lean back towards the rider and a differently shaped pommel.

Step 2. Compare saddles  made with that tree and choose the one which best meets your needs.

Points to check can include:

• Configuration of hardware and girth rigging
• Seat style and padding
• Is the saddle available in the right size?
• Do you want extra features like edge dyed leather
• Price / budget

Step 3. Select your options

You will notice that most saddles are available with different options. Once you have decided which saddle has the features you need and meets your budget, check which options are available with that saddle and decide which ones match your personal preferences. Options may include:

Leather Finish (e.g. smooth-out or rough-out)
Some riders prefer a rough-out leather saddle for the extra grip it offers and reduced visibility of scratches, however many prefer the sleek look of smooth-out leather.

Colour
Most saddles (except the Stanley Fender and Youth Fender) are available in different colours. Not all saddles are available in all colours.
Please note: Appearance may be affected by lighting conditions and other factors. Leather can darken after oiling. The colour of suede seats may vary according to the colour in stock.

Lining
All Toowoomba Saddlery saddles are supplied with low-maintenance felt lining as standard, it is possible to have a saddle made with a wool fleece lining. This option may cost extra, and require some lead time as the saddle would be made-to-order.

Step 4. Contact one of Toowoomba Saddlery’s many distributors to confirm a price and place your order.

See our map of distributors or contact Toowoomba Saddlery for further information.