Tips

Riding & Saddle Tips

1. DOWNHILL RIDING. When riding downhill, to stop your saddle moving forward or over the shoulders of your horse, don't throw your feet forward, as this will pull the saddle into the shoulders. Keep your feet under you and lean back from the hip.

2. SADDLE CLEANING. To keep your saddle clean where sweat contacts the leather, simply dissolve a dessert spoon of saddle soap in warm water in a 2-litre milk container and leave it next to where you hang your saddle. Then, when you get back from a ride, use a soft cloth or XLO sponge to wipe down those sweat-contact areas before it penetrates the leather. Don't forget that breastplate.

3. SADDLE MOUNTING. When mounting the horse, keep your hand off the saddle horn, as this tends to pull your saddle over. It is best to hold on to the horse's mane; it will not hurt the horse as much as the saddle being pulled over its withers and back. Also mount from both sides to keep both stirrups evenly stretched.

5. SADDLE SQUEAK. If your saddle is making a squeaking noise, do not use oil to fix the problem, as it won't permanently help. The problem can be solved by using talcum powder; just puff it onto the two areas that the squeak is coming from, generally under the seat.

4. BUYING A SADDLE. Trying out saddles is something you should always do before you buy, and one thing you must do is ride in the saddle (new or used). Don't just ride on the flat; ride the saddle up and down hills and over the same terrain that you are likely to be riding. Important to note: if any saddle seller (retail or private) tells you that you can only put it on the back but can't girth it up, sit in it or ride in it, a very good tip for you is—WALK AWAY! I always let customers try before they buy, as this is the only way you are going to know if it fits both you and your horse properly.

6. HAVING A SADDLE MADE. The best time to have your saddle made is during the slow winter months, as your saddler has more time to work on your new saddle. Therefore, you should get a well-made saddle rather than competing for time during the busy period at the beginning of the riding season.