How to Fit a Western Saddle to the Rider

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kathy_I_Yaskin]Kathy I Yaskin
Many factors come into play when determining proper saddle fit to the rider. Saddle type, seat size and shape may not be as crucial as correct fit to the horse, but if the fit to the rider isn't right to begin with, you will find yourself being very uncomfortable, sore and stiff after each ride. If you are uncomfortable in the saddle, the horse will be the first to notice and may display unwanted behavior. An uncomfortable seat results in incorrect balance and position of the rider, and will make giving aids to the horse difficult. To ensure a good fit for the rider you want to take into account the type of saddle, size of the seat, the shape of the seat, stirrups length and rigging. If you are unfamiliar with a Western Saddle, it would be helpful to find a detailed diagram indicating the various parts.
If you purchase a barrel racing saddle or trail saddle you would get a deeper seat than for a reining saddle. Obviously a seat that is too big will not feel as secure and that is too small will begin to be uncomfortable after several hours in the saddle (or sooner). If you have been using an English saddle you would not use the same measurements for the western seat. The English seat size is measured differently than the western seat size. Western saddle seat size is measured from the back of the fork (base of the horn) to the top middle edge of the cantle, size to rider can be checked by placing four fingers behind the rider's seat to the top of the cantle; this check can also help the rider determine the proper positioning in the saddle
The following guidelines are used to determine the seat size:
-Youth and preteens would use size 13 inch or 14 inch seat.
-Pre-teen or small adult female would use a 14 inch seat or a 15 inch seat.
-Most women will fit in a 15 inch or 16 inch seat.
-Men up to 150 lbs. would fit into a 15 inch or 16 inch seat.
- For men weighing over 230 lbs. would fit an 18 inch seat.
Again these are only general guidelines as you start your search for that perfect fitting saddle. You will have to try several saddles of different types, sizes and shapes; this is worth your time! Otherwise you just might find yourself walking your horse back to the barn on foot!
There are a number of measurements in addition to seat size that will determine how well the fit of the western saddle is to the rider. The depth and angle of the seat, the slope and dish of the cantle, and the style in angle of the fork, all combine with the seat size to determine how much room is available in a particular seat. If you are not sure of how to determine if the saddle fits you, ask your local saddle shop for help and advice. In my experience when dealing with reputable dealer if you're shopping for a new saddle you will be able to take the saddle home and take it for a ride providing that you are careful not to mark the saddle up, get it dirty and that you bring it back in "new" condition. It's always best to try a few saddles to get a feel of the different types of seats. Now that you have determined if the saddle fits you, you must now also determine if the saddle fits your horse. You can refer back to my last article; "Saddle Fitting Your Horse - Where to Fit a Western Saddle" for additional information to determine if your new saddle fits your horse.
Summary:
Finding a saddle that properly fits the rider and allows proper contact with the horse is important for an enjoyable ride, allowing many hours of happy trail riding for you and your horse. Taking time to evaluate saddles before buying can lend to years of enjoyment and save you a lot of time, frustration, and money.
......happy trails!
Kathy Yaskin, http://BestBuyHorseTack.com is your premier online horse tack connection. We work very hard to bring you quality products at the best price. We offer products that we would use on our own horses, so you can have complete confidence in your every purchase.
Having been a professional horse trainer, clinician and riding instructor for the past 23 year, I understand your needs and have extensive knowledge of equestrian tack, training and horse behavior.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Fit-a-Western-Saddle-to-the-Rider&id=6628561] How to Fit a Western Saddle to the Rider