I am an older lady who is thinking about using a lightweight cordura nylon western saddle on my horse with a prominent wither and huge shoulder ( 17.2 H). I need more security , lighter weight but something that won’t bind those shoulders or sit on wither of this sensitive guy His current saddle is a custom CWD. I know nothing about western saddles. Am I nuts for thinking something like this might work? Please tell me what you think or have similar experience with. Thank you
I would probably look at Fabtrons. I believe they have a wide tree option that might work.
Possibly an Australian saddle?
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I was wondering about this – not from any personal experience, but based on reviews I read when my husband was researching saddles for his horse (trail riding). So many of them raved about how secure the saddle felt. I don’t know if (as a general rule) they would be more or less likely to fit the OP’s horse compared to a western saddle.
Had the same problem for my wide, broad ASB.
Tried a cordura but I thought it was pretty flimsy.
Ended up finding a custom (used) reining saddle, leather, fairly light but with extra wide gullet.
It’s tough to find and fit these horses.
I used to have a Fabtron Lady Trail saddle. I thought it was a nice saddle for the price, but the bar angles weren’t right for my horse and the saddle pinched enough to cause white spots on his withers. I bought a Steele trail saddle custom made for me and my horse, and we’re both very happy with it. No more white spots on his withers, and no more achy knees for me. I don’t think the Steel weighs any more than the Fabtron . . . my Steele is about 25 pounds with the cinch, off billet, and latigo strap.
Years ago, I bought a FQHB Wintec western saddle to start a young mule under saddle. I was impressed by the quality and how well it has fit a variety of equines. I sold it a few years ago to a fellow boarder and it’s still in great shape.
My only complaint about cordura/synthetic saddles is that, unlike leather fenders, the stirrups never get broken in and “turn.” And it’s just enough torque on my old lady knees to make them hurt. I ended up buying a pair of Cashel “E-Z Knees Stirrup Turner,” which solved that problem.
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Personally, I really dislike synthetic western saddles. I find them unsupportive and uncomfortable for me and often ill fitting for the horse. There are some lighter weight quality leather saddles that may work such as those made for endurance riding. I have a Circle Y Alabama Trail Gaiter and it’s super comfy and less weight than a traditional western saddle.
I think Circle Y has some partially synthetic saddles in their High Horse line. May be worth checking out.
