The western saddle has a long and very interesting history. Common belief is that the western saddle is American in design and development, truth be told....
History of the Horse Bit Never to be over looked a basic essential to riding a horse is controlling it. The bit is key here. Well the bit and bridle or head-stall work hand in hand. The bit was originally made from rope and sinew, wood or bones, if there was a bit at all. Metal bits where originally made of bronze around 1200 BC. Nickel was used until around 1940's when it was replaced by stainless steel. Now a days bits come in all sizes and shapes and flavors. Copper, aurigan, and cold rolled steel (sweet iron) are added to encourage the horse to salivate, and rubber or plastic are also used. Bits have worked on the same mechanism since their invention, a combinations of pressure and leverage.
Parts of Bit
Since the invention of treed saddles stirrups have been a big part of riding. Originally just a loop of leather to stick a toe into, they have evolved and are continuing to evolve today. Stirrups are about safety and easier control of the horse, while making it easier for the rider to stay on. The stirrups we know today come in a huge variety of styles, materials and sizes. Most are attached to the saddle with some kind of adjustable leather, which is easy to adjust to fit the size of the rider.
Different Types of Western Saddle Trees.
Different Styles of Western Saddle Rigging. Horse Saddle Rigging Unleashed! When riding western style most people know about the latigo and cinch straps. They are essential to keeping the saddle in position on the horses back, and therefor keeping the rider secure as well. A lot of people have also heard about the different ways to “rig” their saddles, but which is best and what is it used for? Those are the questions we are trying to answer here. So first a little information
The different types of western saddles and how they are best used.
A brief look in to the history of the horse and harness. How the harness was used in older times as well as how the harness has evolved to meet its current uses.
Further information concerning blankets and how to properly size and check for fit for your new winter blanket.
Information you need when purchasing a new blanket for your horse. What to look for and what all those numbers mean in the horse blanket world.