How To Choose The Best Barrel Racing Saddle

Size and weight are of utmost importance when selecting the best barrel racing saddle

, since barrel racing is a highly competitive sport. The barrel racing saddle is among the lightest of saddles, intended for speed as the rider moves through difficult turns and rapid gallops.

Features Of A Good Barrel Racing Saddle

A good saddle should fit the horse securely while being comfortable to the rider. The saddle has a low seat for the rider and an elevated fork with broad swells to hold him in place. The horn is taller making it easy to hold onto while taking sharp turns. There are fenders and side jockeys for extra clinch and a higher cantle for safety. The narrow stirrups keep the feet in position while the fenders permit the jockey to keep the legs beneath her center of gravity. A good saddle will weigh no more than 30 pounds with a front cinch and in-skirt rigging. Since most horses participating in barrel racing are female, the saddles can be a little dressy.

Making a good barrel racing saddle

Use a wire to measure the size of the horses back and shapes it accordingly for creating the saddle. Draw the desired shape over cardboard and cut the top half. You can take the lower part to saddle shops and place it under the saddle to get the right fitting. See how comfortable you are sitting in the saddle so that it is possible to make finer adjustments.

Before fitting, groom the horse to remove any dirt particles, as it will be uncomfortable for both, you and the horse while riding. Sprinkle generous amounts of baby powder on the horses back to verify on any fitting problems with the saddle a little later. Remove any labels or stickers from the saddle pad and then put it exactly where you will place the saddle.

Next, place the saddle right over the saddle pad. It should fit exactly without any spaces to avoid bunching up while riding. Put the latigo strap through the cinch buckle and rein the saddle. Do not make it too tight as it may harm the horse and cause injury. Then walk with the horse so that she relaxes and gets used to the weight of the saddle on her back. This way you can tighten the saddle for a perfect fit.

Climb the horse and slowly walk around. Put her through the paces at different speeds to ensure that she is comfortable and the saddle fits properly at all speeds. Get down and slowly remove the barrel racing saddle. See if there is any injury or rubbing marks on the horses back due to the saddle. The sweat marks should be uniform without dry areas. The powdered areas will be visible clearly if there are any improper fitting areas along the horses back. If necessary refit the saddle using a different saddle pad and use a special support if needed for the perfect fit. Therefore, if you keep the above factors in mind, you can comfortably take part in any number of barrel races.

by: addy jason

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