I’m thinking of leaving my dressage saddle for a western trail saddle. New horse is more western anyway and I’m just going to be trail riding him. I haven’t ridden western in years but kind of looking forward to a new experience 
And now that I’m officially “old” I’m wondering if an endurance model is as secure as a regular western saddle? I haven’t had a horn in many years but again I’m older and more of a wimp these days…
Thanks!
I’m not sure what you’re asking.
Are you worried about having a horn? As in, oh, I don’t know, poking yourself with it if the horse hops over a log or hanging yourself by your belt trying to dismount? Cause, um, I don’t know anyone who’s done anything remotely like that. :uhoh: :lol:
Or do you want a horn to hang onto? I was always taught that if you hold on to the horn all your hair will fall out. 
If that’s the case, do as the cool kids do and get yourself a night latch instead.
It’s personal preference. I prefer no horn, but finding what fit the horse took priority, and it has a horn. They’re handy for hanging the bridle on, and occasionally grabbing. But I rode in a Bob Marshall endurance saddle for several years and never missed the horn.
I have a really nice western saddle. I dislike the horn, only use it when ponying another horse, and then only to drape the rope over while I am off the ridden horse.
What do I usually trail ride? My Smith-Worthington Maxx dressage saddle.
If I were you, I would borrow some saddles and see what you like. Your hair won’t fall out because you hold the horn, but if you think the horn will keep you on the horse, well, you have already fallen off, you just don’t know it yet!:D:winkgrin:
I guess I don’t know what I’m asking either I want a balanced, not feet-on-the-dash, position and I “think” that may point more toward an endurance model. As for the horn yes, I do remember ducking under a branch years ago and catching my sternum on the horn. BUT, my other horse has a huge spin around spook and something to grab at those moments might be nice… So I guess now I can reword my post to Can a Western Saddle be as Balanced as an Endurance saddle??
Oh! Yes. I rode in my Fabtron saddle for this morning’s lesson, and it puts your feet directly underneath you. No problems posting at all.
Have a look at their website (linked above) - some saddles only come with full QH bars and some with semi QH bars so that would determine what style you’d want. I’d advise against ordering one with a flex tree, though. I had one of those and it was never very secure on the horse - tended to roll no matter how tightly it was cinched.
And yes, I’d get a night latch so you can grab something during those spins and spooks. If you grab the horn, you’re liable to lean forward and then you’re halfway out the door already. With a night latch, you can grab it and still keep your weight in your heels.
