18 1/2 wide tree dressage saddles

Do Not Try This At Home

2010-08-05T19:52:00.000-07:00

I can't imagine someone riding a horse without a helmet. But the truth is that there are some people who will neglect safety and engage in such a foolish act. Millie Chalk explains more on this safety mistake that some people engage in.

The Dangers of Riding Without a Helmet

I've known of far too many situations where someone was severely hurt by going without the protection of a helmet, don't you? Yet it's taken a few years for me to finally get smart enough to realize what a silly and reckless thing it is to go without. Is keeping your hair nice or your head cool really worth risking a head injury often leading to a concussion, a coma or even death?

I can give you countless reports of such things happening each and every year! It doesn't matter how well trained you or your horse is. Things just happen. I've had ponies simply walking that tripped over a tree root and fell down dropping their rider to the ground. It's bound to happen sooner or later.

So why are we still seeing people riding without a helmet? Do they think it's cool? I'll tell you what's not cool and why I won't be caught without a helmet on my head anytime I'm on the back of a horse and that is I fear the ridicule I'd receive from my savvy and wise students if I ended up with a head injury because of neglecting to do something I am adamant about for them. Dealing with their disappointment in me would be far worse than any physical injury and I'm glad of their expectations because they keep me determined not to give in to discomfort or appearance!

As adults I feel we need to set the example. (You know the kids look at an adult without their helmet like they're the most stupid person on the planet. Come on, do we really need to give them something else to diminish ourselves in their eyes?)

Just logic and good sense tells you why you need to wear a helmet. As I say to my kids... "You have two of everything, two arms, two legs, two hands but only one head, if it breaks you have nothing else to take its place".

Today more than ever we have a huge variety of helmets with which to choose from, everything from super cool to super hot! There's a helmet for every discipline and every occasion and something that can fit into any budget.

So no matter what you're riding, how you're riding or where you're riding to you need to put on a helmet!

Millie Chalk (White Star Woman)

Professional horse trainer for 25yrs. and author of historical fiction. Part Cherokee Indian I'm passionate regarding the current struggle of all the first nations feeling most akin for several reasons to the Lakota.

For more information on all phases of horseback riding and horse care check out my new website... http://backyardhorseman.com/

Should I Buy An English Or A Western Saddle?

2010-08-02T19:48:00.000-07:00

Susanne Malloy answers:

Saddle Buying - English Or Western?

For the most part there are two distinct types of popular saddles, English and western. In reality there are distinctions within these two groups, especially in the English saddles, plus there are endurance saddles and Australian saddle styles. The two general saddle styles of English and western are impossible to mistake, and are designed to best suit the particular demands of the different riding styles.

Western saddles have one basic style with many different shape and size variations within that general form. The western saddle is distinctive with a horn and high fork on the front of the saddle, a deep seat in the saddle and a low to high cantle making up the back of the seat. The western saddle also has a distinctive saddle skirt as well as wide and long stirrups and fenders, often which are very ornate and carved.

English saddles are much lighter than western saddles and tend to be more simplistic in style. They have a much flatter seat, no noticeable fork and no horn, with the front of the saddle being correctly known as the pommel. The cantle at the back of the seat is rather thin and may be low to high as with the western saddle. The sides of the saddle that replace the skirts and fenders are known as the flaps, and they are close to the horse's body. The stirrups are very minimal in styling with a thin stirrup leather connecting them to the saddle seat. English saddles vary from hunt seat, the most common pleasure type of English saddle to dressage saddles and show saddles. Dressage and show saddles must meet certain requirements to be used in competition. The Australian saddle and the endurance saddle are a combination of features of both the English and western styles. They are becoming more popular with both groups of riders as general work and practice saddles since they are durable, strong yet light weight and practical.

Regardless of what type of saddle you are buying it is important to make sure that it fits the horse correctly. Poorly fitting saddles will result in saddle sores for the horse and a dislike of being ridden. Generally measuring the widest part of the saddle area on the horse's back and ensuring the inside measurement of the saddle you are buying is at least this large will ensure a close fit, but it is always best to have the opportunity to try it on the horse. If you are buying a new saddle or a used saddle bring your horse or make sure it can be exchanged if it doesn't fit correctly. Experienced riders recommend that you should be able to place three fingers between the front of the saddle, the pommel, and the horse's back to ensure a proper fit. If the space is larger than this the saddle is too big, if it is less the saddle is too small.

If the cinch is to small or does not reach around the horse's girth, simply buy a longer cinch. This has nothing to do with the fit across the back, which is the area where the pressure from the rider can really cause problems with a poorly fitted saddle. Always examine your horse's back if he or she seems uncomfortable under the saddle and look for any areas of rubbing or irritation that can indicate the saddle is not correctly fitted.

Susanne Malloy is an avid equestrian and an editor for http://www.EnglishSaddleShop.com, your complete resource for new and used English saddles, riding apparel, and tack.

Fun Packed Horse Riding Camps

2010-08-01T18:34:00.000-07:00

The article below on horseback riding camps was written by Samantha Kay.

Horseback Riding Camps Offer Fun, Exercise, Experience

Is your child or teen horse crazy? Many children and teens are fascinated with horses and horseback riding. Attending a horseback riding camp will give them a basic knowledge of horses and riding as well as an interesting summer camp destination.

While the focus of horseback riding camps is, obviously, riding horses, these camps also teach other important factors of horse ownership and care. During their camp time, campers will learn about the different types of tack used to ride or drive a horse. Camp attendees will also learn how to clean and care for tack. Also offered at horse riding camps are sessions on proper horse care. During these sessions, campers will be taught how to feed, water and groom a horse. Some camps ever offer classes in equine anatomy, perfect for children who think they may want to become a veterinarian.

When choosing a horseback riding camp, you must first decide which style of riding your child wants to learn. The main riding styles are western and English. Western riding is generally associated with cowboys, ranches, and rodeos. Popular western riding activities include trail riding and barrel racing. Western saddles were designed with the comfort and security of the rider in mind, so it has a higher seat back (cantle) and front (pommel) so riders feel secure while on the horse. English riding, on the other hand, generally focuses on jumping, racing and horsemanship. This style of riding requires the horse and rider both to have more freedom of movement, so these saddles don't provide as much support and security as does a Western style saddle. If your child is a first time rider, they might want to consider a Western riding camp.

Horseback riding camps generally offer lessons for experienced riders as well as those who have never been on a horse before. Experienced riders will generally be placed in a class they will find challenging while beginning riders will begin by learning the basics of how to properly mount and sit on a horse. Riders with little riding experience are paired with an older, gentler animal while those with more experience ride the younger more spirited animals.

In addition to riding lessons, some horseback riding camps also offer classes in driving miniature horses. In these classes students learn to control the horse as they ride in a small cart pulled by the animal. Another popular horseback activity is vaulting. Simply put, vaulting is gymnastics on horseback. For this sport, horses with large, flat backs are lunged, or driven, in a circle while students perform gymnastic tricks on their backs. Although this sport may sound dangerous and difficult, students generally find it is easier than it sounds.

For horse lovers, horseback riding camp can be a great way to spend at least part of the summer. In the course of these camps, campers can learn the basics of riding or improve their riding skills. They will also learn important horse care issues such as horse health and anatomy. These riding camps can be a great source of fun and experience with horses.

Still looking for the perfect summer camp? Try visiting http://www.aboutcamps.com - a website that specializes in providing camp advice, tips and resources including information on horseback riding camp.

Horse Riding Girths

2010-07-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

Felicity Lightbody will try to inform us on "Applications & Types of Horse Riding Girths" in this article below. Lets hear what she has for us. Happy Reading!

Applications & Types of Horse Riding Girths

Used to make sure the saddle is correctly attached to the horses back, the girth sits around 10 cm behind the horses' front legs. There are a number of types of girth and styles online in the Anything Equine store. They are used for many different disciplines, as described below.

Balding Girths
Made from leather and cut into 3 strips.

Atherstone Girths
Shaped leather with a stronger strip of leather along the centre.

Dressage Girths
Also called a 'Lonsdale' girth. Not as long as other girths and used primarily with dressage saddles. The long billets on dressage saddles allow this girth to be fitted without the buckles interfering with the rider's leg aids. They can be made from leather, strong cotton or padded cotton and in Balding or Atherstone styles.

Unshaped Girths
Can be made from padded cotton or flat heavy cotton, both with webbing reinforcements, or they can also be made from leather.

Over girths
Mostly used when racing. Overgirths are used in addition to a regular girth to provide additional saddle security and are worn around the belly of the horse and across the seat of the saddle.

Stud Guards / Jumping Girths
These are commonly used when show jumping or eventing, they have a large protective pad that sits under the horse's belly, preventing studs or horse shoes from striking the horse's underside as they tuck their front legs up and under when jumping.

Tips
When choosing a girth it is essential that the correct size is chosen, for the horses comfort and for the rider's safety. The girth should spread even pressure across the belly of the horse. The measurement should be taken using a flexible measuring tape from the middle hole of one of the billets on your saddle, under the horse's belly in the position where the girth will sit, then to the middle hole of a billet on the opposite side.

Felicity is a intermittent scribe, writing infrequent pieces in the UK for anythingequine.co.uk who sell equestrian girths and saddlery products. Anything Equine specialise in horse rugs & riding boots in the UK.

How To Choose The Proper Horse Saddle

2010-07-28T20:12:00.000-07:00

Are you thinking of owning a horse saddle then this article by By Justin Strader is for you.

Horse Saddles For Sale - How to Choose the Right One

The saddle is one of the most important pieces of horse riding apparel, so there are several things to keep in mind when deciding on horse saddles for sale. First, the riding style must be identified. Usually, this is either English or Western, although there are also specialty ones for activities like polo, dressage, jumping, and racing. In English riding, the rider holds one reign in each hand and tells the horse to turn by gently pulling one reign, which applies pressure to a bit in the horses mouth.

Western-style riders hold both reigns in one hand and tell the horse to turn by shifting their weight or laying the reigns against the horses neck. The western ones are larger and heavier than English saddles and were originally designed for hard-riding cowboys. The riders weight is distributed evenly across the horses back, which allows the horse and rider to be comfortable on long rides.

Dressage saddles allow the riders leg and the horse to have the most contact. The flaps are cut straight and narrow and these saddles have a different cut than an English saddle.

For jumping, a hunt seat saddle is used. This saddle was originally designed for fox hunting and it affords the rider a better position for jumping.

Horse racing requires a flat racing saddle. These are extremely lightweight and have very short stirrups so the rider can lean forward as far as possible.

No matter the activity, the next question is the type of saddle. There are leather saddles, suede saddles, and saddles made from synthetic materials. Leather saddles are the most well known, and a high quality leather saddle can last for years. Synthetic saddles can be lightweight and easy to clean, but may not have the longevity of a leather saddle.

The most important factor for saddles is comfort, for both the rider and the horse. A saddle that does not fit properly can cause back muscle bruising on the horse. Saddle sizes are measured in inches, from the pommel to the cantle. There should be two to three inches of space between the rider and the back of the saddle when seated. In addition, the saddle should stay firmly in place without slipping and it should fit the horse tightly across the shoulders and back without digging in.

There are many saddles to choose from, so it is important to remember your anticipated riding activities when choosing a horse saddle for sale.

For more free tips and advice on Horse Saddles For Sale try visiting http://www.horse-saddles-for-sale.com/.

Some Horse Riding Safety Lessons

2010-07-26T19:50:00.000-07:00

So many people will agree with me that horse ridding though a fun activity can also be a very dangerous activity as such there is the need for a horse rider to observe some safety tips. Below are some horse ridding safety tips provided by By Millie Chalk. Enjoy!

The Dangers of Riding Without a Safety Stirrup

Many years ago I had a superintendent of a local school district call me knowing I was involved with kids and horses. Seemed his district had a school sponsored riding program and one of the little girls had in a lesson been dragged to death by the horse she was on. In horror I responded to the news with the question; "why had the safety stirrup not deployed releasing the girl's foot?" His response to my question was; "what's a safety stirrup"?

I was shocked and after explaining the necessity of such precautions and shared with him the realization of how senseless the little girl's death was I warned him that he'd better hope that the parents didn't contact me regarding the tragedy because I would council them to go after the school district for blatant neglect and endangering children's lives.

Maybe it's because my Great Grandfather was dragged to death by a horse but I've always thought it reckless to be riding a horse without some type of safety stirrup. Although a typical western stirrup offers a little more protection against losing one's foot through especially when wearing a western boot it's just careless to ride in an English stirrup without it being equipped to release if a rider gets their foot hung up through a fall and being crazy enough to ride without a boot such as in wearing a tennis shoe is courting disaster.

There are many types of quick release stirrups on the market ranging anywhere from the most common "peacock" stirrup to those on hinges and other designs that are more elaborate. They start at prices as reasonable as $30 to $40 and go up from there depending on how camouflaged you want the safety features. I think the point is you still can be a slave to fashion and have the protection a safety stirrup offers so vanity is no longer an excuse. All of my students use some sort of safety "quick release" stirrup as well as helmets no matter what their age. Why take the chance of going without? In my mind it's just stupid!

My hope is that people will stop being ignorant about this and start realizing how important a simple safety feature can be and that I'll never witness again the sight of a little child being thrown from their pony only for it to be standing there at the jump still attached to the child by their foot hung up in the stirrup. As far as I'm concerned it should be a requirement for any junior just as is now the proper regulation helmets.

Wake up people and especially parents! Do the right thing and put you and your children into proper and safe equipment. Be determined to never ride again without those safety stirrups. I will guarantee there will be a time that you will be grateful you went to the expense and relative little effort!

Millie Chalk (White Star Woman)

If you'd like to learn more regarding all phases of horseback riding along with horse care and training, check out my website... http://backyardhorseman.com/

How To Fit A Horse Riding Saddle Correctly

2010-07-25T18:54:00.000-07:00

Do You want to learn how to fit a Horse Riding Saddle? Then read through this page to discover how.

Correctly Fitting Your Horse Riding Saddle

By Brian Wisz

One of the most important things you can do to ensure the health and comfort of you and your horse is not only to select the right horse riding saddle, but properly fitting that saddle to your horse. Having a bad fit can not only create back ache and muscle pain for the rider, but it also very uncomfortable for the horse. There are companies that will measure you and your horse and suggest a correct saddle size. I highly recommend this service to begin with.

Once you have purchased the correct sized horse saddle, it is also important to remember that the position of the saddle on the horse's back is very important in making sure that the horse is comfortable while being ridden. There are basically three main muscles in the horse's back which can be negatively affected by bad saddle placement. Please familiarize yourself with these muscles and their location on your horse before you attempt to position the saddle on the horses' back.

The first thing you want to do is place the horse riding saddle on the back of the horse forward of the wither. Once you have done this, slide it backward down the horse until it cannot go any further. Do not force it. You should see now that the lowest part of the saddle should correspond to the lowest part of the horse's back. In order to verify that you positioned saddle correctly, the saddle tree should not press on the scapula or shoulder of the horse. It should lie in the groove behind it. This is a common mistake when positioning a saddle. People have a tendency to place the saddle too far up and put pressure on the scapula of the horse. This can hamper the movement of the horse as well as create saddle sores.

Properly fitting your horse saddle to your horse will come easier after the first couple times you do it. It is worth taking the time to learn the correct way to do this in order for your horse to remain happy and healthy.

Brian has been providing online content now for over 5 years. Please visit his latest website at http://www.candlemakingexpert.com to sign up for a free e course on candle making and learn the latest techniques about Candle Making Molds

How To Ride A Horse In A Circle

2010-07-24T21:47:00.000-07:00

Do you want to learn how to ride a horse in a circle? Then read on as Carolina White explains how horses are ridden in circles.

Easy Guide to Riding a Horse in a Circle

The simple steps can be broken down into basic riding "seat" position, finding your balance in the saddle. Hand position and the feeling of a soft, but connected feeling in the riders hands. Make a straight line from the horses mouth to the riders elbow. Ask the horse to walk forward by the squeeze and release of your inside legs gluteal and thigh muscles, and the constant pressure of the outside leg.

Continue in the circle with the squeeze and release with the inside hand as well, while keeping the outside hand at a light, but connected contact. Continue around the circle by repeating the steps above. It is important to keep in mind, that these individual steps will be all put together in more of a fluid, repetitive movement. To carry out the cognitive stage of learning presented by Fitt's and Posner's, it would be fit to add in verbal cues. This is a big help to those who are just starting to learn a skill. Verbal cues will be added in order to help the rider connect with the horse by asking him/her what to do verbally.

This can be broken down into a number of different verbal commands, depending on what the horse you are riding was trained to understand. Clicking your tongue on the roof of your mouth will create a clucking noise that is normally the cue for a horse to walk. Another verbal command is simple saying "walk on," if the horse is trained he/she will walk forward. These verbal cues are important because with each click, or verbal cue, it will remind the rider that they must apply a squeeze to the horses side for them to move as well.

Check out Carolina's new sites on Rocky Mountain Hardware and Modern Fan.

Coping With Nervousness When Riding A Horse

2010-07-23T18:45:00.000-07:00

Nervousness can be a serious problem for so many people. Learning how to cope with it is one quality a lot of people would want to posses. Read the article below and you will discover some tips that could help you cope with uneasiness when riding a horse.

How to Cope With Nervousness During Horseback Riding Instructions
Written By Jim Milton

If you are a horseback riding student, your trainer will adjust your lessons specifically to you, and as part of your horseback riding instructions, you will need to be prepared to attempt things that are new to you. If this did not occur, your riding skills would not advance.

As your lessons progress, you may find yourself in a situation where you feel uneasy about something that your trainer has asked you to do. This situation is exaggerated further when other riders in your group are able to easily perform the maneuver that is causing you so much anxiety.

What should you do when this occurs?

Take an introspective look at your situation.

You need to confront the true reason that this maneuver makes you nervous.

We can take a look at your first trot to examine this situation. During this task, does the unpredictability of what your horse will do make you anxious, or are you more concerned about how others may look at your inferior riding skills?

If the latter is your main worry, this would be the ideal time to gain the ability to laugh at yourself. Learning to ride is a process that will afford many opportunities to laugh at yourself, so there is no need to take it so seriously. Other individuals in your group will tend not to laugh if you are able to laugh at yourself.

The circumstances are completely different if a sincere fear of becoming injured, is what's bothering you.

Talk Openly With Your Trainer About Your Feelings

Explain exactly how you are feeling to your instructor. By sharing your anxieties with your instructor, they will be able to offer support in helping you get passed them. Many riding students experience fears when learning to ride, and your safety should take precedence over your pride.

Two Alternative Answers:

We would like to share two possible solutions with you, in the event that the trainer's efforts to put you at ease, are unsuccessful.

1. Try riding a different horse

Let's continue to use the example of trotting. If you are concerned about your horse acting up when you attempt to have him trot, you may ask if you can switch horses for a short time, with another rider who is having success trotting with their horse.

This will give you the opportunity to observe your horse working calmly with another rider, and you will feel more confident about asking a horse that you have already seen trotting calmly, to perform this task for you. You will be much more confident getting back on your original horse, after you have seen him behaving well for someone else.

2. Perform requested tasks on the lunge

It will be much less unnerving to attempt a new gait, if you are working on the lunge. This means that there is a long line attached to your horse, and the trainer holds the other end while standing in the center of a twenty meter circle.

This allows you to focus your attention on mastering your balance while sitting on the saddle, because your trainer is managing the steering for you. In the case of learning to trot, you will be going from walking quietly to a gait that is extremely bouncy, therefore, being able to focus just on balancing yourself is quite helpful.

Whenever you are learning new maneuvers on horseback, it is common to feel uneasy at times. The best thing that you can do, is talk to your instructor honestly about your concerns, so that they can help you deal with them.

Read more about horse riding by visiting Jim Milton's horse riding classes website. Milton is an international horse rider who will guide you to be comfortable on your horse with his horseback lessons with video instructions.

Finding A Used Dressage Saddle

2010-07-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

Finding quality used dressage saddles isn't that easy as such we need guidance. Read the piece below by Beth Stefani.

Used Western Saddles: Finding the Right Saddle For the Right Price

Buying a western saddle that's been used is often a great choice. Quality saddles maintain their value over time, so you can often buy a top brand previously-owned saddle for the same price as you would a lower quality new one. Your dollar goes a lot farther in the used market and a good quality saddle fits both you and your horse better than something cheaply manufactured.

High quality leather western saddles are usually well cared for, so when they're sold they're often in great shape. Sure, most used saddles will have a scuff here and there, but that adds to their character. It shows they've been put to the test and they've held up to the rigors of riding, unlike some of the poorly constructed new saddles out there.

During your search, take the opportunity to try as many different types, brands, and models of saddles as you can. This will help you narrow down the choice of what will suit you best. Of course, a saddle needs to fit the horse too, so keep that in mind.

So where should you start looking? Start anywhere there are horses. Horse owners and stables may be thinking of changing a saddle they have or making space by selling one they're not using. You'd be amazed what you can find just by asking. If the place or person you visit doesn't have a used saddle for sale, they may know someone who does.

Look first for used western saddles in places where you can see, touch, and inspect them. Look in tack shops or stores selling western tack. Just because a store sells new items doesn't mean that they don't have used tack. Plenty of people upgrade their western saddles and many tack shops will take a used saddle in as a trade in. Some tack stores also have used saddles for sale on consignment. Local used tack sales can be a great source for used saddles. Keep an eye out for sale announcements by local horse groups and at horse shows and other events. Check the newspapers and the local classified publications.

The Internet is also a fantastic place to find a quality used western saddle. On the Internet you're not limited to just your local area which significantly opens up your potential choices. Online sales sites such as eBay, TackTrader.com, and Equine.com provide a wide selection in the used market. Many tack stores also have websites and list their used tack for sale online.

In the online world, a picture says a thousand words, reading the small print matters, and asking questions is a must. You usually won't be able to inspect the saddle before you buy, so make sure you have detailed photos and find out as much as you can prior to buying. Some sellers will give you a try-out period so make sure to ask. Watch out for shipping costs as well - you could get a great bargain on a top-of-the-line saddle but pay a pretty penny to get it from there to here.

When trying to track down the perfect used saddle, take your time. Figure out what you need and don't buy on impulse or because something is a bargain. Your main goal is to get a durable, solid quality western saddle that fits you and your horse the best. You'll save money in the long run, and your horse will thank you for taking the time to pick the perfect saddle.

Beth Stefani is the publisher of the http://www.Western-Saddle-Guide.com and the Western Saddle Blog. Whether you're just starting out with horses or a seasoned horseman, the Western Saddle Guide provides all the information you need to understand, choose, and care for the saddle that's right for you.

How To Buy A Saddle Without Making Mistakes

2010-07-22T19:44:00.000-07:00

Everyone can easily purchase a saddle but how do you know if it is authentic? Don't worry because Beth Stefani is here to help you.

Western Saddle Buying: Top 7 Buying Mistakes

Buying the wrong western saddle is a very common occurrence in the western riding world. It's also a very expensive learning experience. You can skip this painful lesson by avoiding the top seven western saddle buying mistakes.

Buying Pretty. While we'd all like a nice looking saddle, letting looks drive your buying decision is asking for trouble. The quality of the saddle materials and the construction are far more important than the look of a saddle. A poorly made saddle can look awfully pretty, especially to the uninitiated. Don't fall for this one.
Buying Image. Have dreams of riding the range and working a cattle drive? Or maybe riding to an NFR championship buckle in barrel racing? While the cowboy and cowgirl dreams and imagery can be strong and enticing, don't let those images determine your saddle choice. Choose a saddle type that fits the actual type of riding that you'll be doing.
Buying Cheap. Cheap saddles are not a bargain. Poor quality materials and construction will shorten saddle life, and, more importantly, will cause discomfort and impair movement in your horse. If you can't afford at least a middle-of-the-road new saddle ($500 and up), then buying used is a great solution. Quality saddles last a long time, making buying a "pre-owned" saddle a smart buy.
Buying Dumb. You need to educate yourself on some saddle basics before buying. Ride in as many different saddles as you can. Talk to all the horse people you know about their saddles. Pick the brain of knowledgeable saddle folks. And, always, before purchasing a saddle, know the seller's tryout and return policies.
Buying Selfish. You found a saddle that's high quality, pretty, and fits you well. You're all set right? Wrong. You're forgetting one very important partner in this deal - your horse. If the saddle doesn't fit your horse well, than the rest doesn't matter. Make sure you understand the basics of horse fit and determine beforehand whether the saddle will be a good fit for your horse.
Buying One-Size-Fits-All. While you shouldn't need a different saddle for every horse you ride, one saddle will not fit every horse you run across. The best approach is to choose a saddle that will fit the basic physical type of horse that you'll ride. For instance, I ride Quarter Horses that are on the smaller size. I have a saddle that will fit most horses of this type. If you ride more than one type of horse, you'll need multiple saddles.
Buying Brand (or Endorsement). This one is a little trickier. Buying a well-established brand is not a bad idea. You just need to be aware that a number of saddle brands have been around a long time and the quality of their saddles have varied significantly over time. The quality can also vary within a brand's current product lines. They might have great roping saddles but just average barrel saddles. Never just blindly buy by brand without thoroughly inspecting the quality of the saddle in consideration. Additionally, celebrity endorsement can seem like a stamp of approval, but it really doesn't mean more than that the celebrity is receiving payment for use of his or her name. Very few celebrities have any input into the design and construction of the saddles bearing their name.

Many riders have a tack room full of saddles that didn't work out. Others are constantly buying and selling saddles in search of just the right one. It doesn't have to be this way. If you do your homework beforehand to truly understand your horse's and your own needs, you can purchase the one saddle that will be a match for you, your horse, and your riding activities.

Beth Stefani is the publisher of www.western-saddle-guide.com, a comprehensive online resource for understanding, choosing, and caring for the western saddle and accessories that are right for you.

What Are The Keys To A Perfect Horse Seat

2010-07-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

So many people want to know what the keys to a perfect horse seat are. If you are one of such people then this article written by By Natasha Althoff-Kelley is for you. Happy Reading!

Dressage - The Three Keys to the Perfect Seat

When you are riding, one vitally important component is your seat. In this article, I would like to look at the seat and how important it is to make sure you are relaxed and confident, to assist in your perfect seat.

Just close your eyes for a moment and I want you to imagine your perfect seat. What does it look like to you? I want you to picture yourself as if you are looking at yourself. So how do you look? Are you still, poised and elegant? What are you ankles doing? Your thighs? Your stomach? Then I want you to step into your body and feel how it feels to have a perfect seat. How it feels to move with your horse in motion and go with the movement. What do you hear, what do you see and what do you feel?

Ok so "how????" I can hear you screaming at me!

Well, good question, but let's first look at why?

To me seat is the single most important tool when riding a horse. When I am working with a client seat is at the fore front of my mind all the time. Lets say I have a client coming to me saying "my horse doesn't keep his head still or stay to the contact," I could talk about driving to the bit and engaging behind and riding the hind leg and I do... but I am also thinking are the hands still enough for the horse to comfortably and easily go into the bridle and stay steady on the contact. Still hands are vital for a horses head to be still. The hands can only be still if the seat is sufficiently developed to keep the balance, and not rely on the hands for balance.

The seat is also the core to effective dressage riding. You know when you watch the top riders and you are staring really hard... and you still can't see them doing anything!!! And the horse is dancing underneath them. Well that's riding with seat. Where you can go with the horse and influence the horse with your body. It's almost like your thoughts become his and your back becomes his back.

So there are three keys to a perfect seat:

Balance - you must have balance first. You must be able to sit in the center of the saddle and not have to rely on anything to grip or get tight to stay in the centre of the movement.
Relaxation - to have a supple back that can swing with the horse you must be relaxed and not tight. The biggest mistakes trainers make is when they say shoulders back, or heels down, the rider if they are very eager will force their heels down or shoulders back using all the muscles they have to achieve this. This results in tight tired muscles and is not the point of a supple seat - the rider will never have the ability to go with the horse. Muscles must always be supple. Now that doesn't mean soft and not engaged as the muscles do need to work. But with relaxation! I know it's a paradox! Aren't most things in riding?!?!?! When I am assisting clients with this I ask them to think of holding a glass of water, now hold it too tight with all the muscle strength you have in your hand and the glass will break, completely relax your hand and the glass will drop and break. There is a muscle tension in the middle ground that is enough to hold the glass. It's the same for riding. Enough tension to keep you in the movement but not too much that you will become tight, rigid and blocked.
Going with the horse's movement - you must be able to go with the horse and not be left behind. It's about being the leader, always knowing what will happen next and being ready for it. This means you must have a braced back and an engaged core.

Once you have developed your perfect seat you can then use your seat to influence the horse, slow and quicken it only with seat and turn and perform lateral movements with your seat in conjunction with your legs and reins.

So remember relaxation is so important. It's a must. If you are worried about falling, you will be gripping and be tight and your seat can't go with the horse. If you are not balanced you will grip to stay on and your seat can't go with the horse.

So work on your balance in the saddle, make sure you stay relaxed and supple with positive muscle tension and then allow your body to go with the horse. This is where riding in your mind can help. You can only do so many hours in the saddle practicing but you can do many more hours in your head. The best thing is in your head you never make a mistake and your unconscious mind can't tell the difference between real and imagined, so all those neural connections are strengthened even if your not on the horse!

To your success,

Natasha

Natasha Althoff-Kelley
http://yourridingsuccess.com
Visit my website for your free 7 Keys to Your Riding Success - providing you with more advice and videos to assist you in your riding journey

Question: What Kind Of Saddle Should I buy?

2010-07-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

I want to do competitive trail events. I am debating between getting an English, Western, or Endurance saddle.

English saddles:
-comfy seat
-light weight
-sometimes my ankles get sore in them(shouldn't be a prob w/ endurance stirrups)
-not as secure

Western:
-can be heavier
-not as easy to post (if I don't get a gaited horse, that is)
-sometimes seat is uncomfortable-
-easy on my knees
-secure

Endurance:
I don't know, I've never used one, but they sound comfy.

Marianne says:
If you want to do endurance or competitive trail riding, get an endurance saddle. Most of your English and Western saddles are not built to be ridden in for hours at a time and do get uncomfortable- Endurance saddles are built for just that, and come from more "Western" styles to ones that look like Dressage saddles on steroids.

Park It Out says:
I'd say if you're going to really get into competitive trail riding, maybe an endurance saddle would be the best thing.

No matter what you pick, definitely make sure that it's fitted properly for both you and the horse, especially because you'll be riding longer distances and conditioning more often.

Aryn says:
I would so with a western saddle because they are sometimes heavier but there so so comfortable and your knees and your butt will thank you, plus if your doing trail it is much better to have a western because you can hang this on the horn that you will need thorough the trails. Also it is a lot more secure. trust me I ride in both English and western and I prefer western.

Fun Filled Horse Riding Summer Camps

2010-07-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for fun packed horse riding summer camps, then get prepared for some tips from Robin J. Derry below.

Title: Horseback Riding Summer Camps For "Yippee Kayay" Fun And Instruction

Not just horses like to "giddeeyup". Fledgling riders at kids horse camps get the hands-on experience of true horseback riding. The new age of experience-it-all growing up runs the gamut of choice...now includes skill and fun-intensive horse riding camp choices that offer western style riding and animal care skills to competition oriented rodeo riding along with dressage and equestrian summer camps. Kids from ages 4 to 16+ can ride and gain skills and confidence.

Overnight Horseback Riding Camps. A multi-day teen horseback riding summer camp gives kids the sort of time and location necessary to acquire all the horse back riding fundamentals. Think of it as an entry into the world of riding, but also learning how saddles are designed and fitted on each horse...what sort of food and water and grooming a horse needs...learning how to control a horse's direction, going forwards or backwards, or how to canter or go to a full-gallop while staying in control.

Girls Horse Camps. Horseback riding camps for girls are located around the country...from Maine and New Hampshire in the Northeast to Virginia, Texas, or out West in Montana, California and elsewhere. Young girl teens...or even younger girls from age 5 to age 16+ can select from a range of girls horse camp skills curricula...from ranch style pony riding focused on work-riding for managing cattle and property...to rodeo event-riding skills that eventually could lead to full-fledged competition riding, cattle roping, obstacle course riding...onto jumping competition and dressage associated with Olympic event riding. Most horseback riding camps for girls are 5 to 7-day programs.

Western Horse Camps. California horse camps compete with Texas horse camps as popular destinations for a full range of riding skills. Most programs offer coed horseback instruction. Kids learn how to mount and dismount a pony...how to size a saddle to the right horse, and tie down the straps and horse blanket...how to move forward, canter, ride open ground pastures, how to ride in singles or pairs. Most Western horse camps breaks up the day, in order to include "play time", swimming, hiking, simple chores and things to keep kids' minds stimulated. Horseback riding might occur on alternate days, unless a boy or girl is competition oriented, and then daily riding instruction is offered...obstacle course riding, jumping, onto dressage.

States Offering The Best Kids Horse Camps. If a boy or girl wants to do a mixed-bag of cool "stuff" during the summer, then the best camps will be those overnight horse camps offering riding, hiking, swimming, arts and crafts, games and practically any conceivable fun activity in a structured program of events. In addition to Texas and California locations, families in other regions can get outstanding programs with Michigan horse camps along with horseback riding camps in Virginia, Maine, Montana and even New York and New Jersey.

Enrollment Tips And Cost Estimates For Teen Summer Horse Back Riding Camps. Adventure...fun...new skills in riding, camping, hiking, fishing, swimming are part of the "package". The rest? Families sorting out "what to do this summer" need to qualify the horse camp in terms of quality of instruction, years of operation, whether the camp has been involved in any civil litigation suits alleging misconduct or accidental liability, and assess the quality of their insurance protection covering potential accident or illness of campers.

* Costs? There's no one set fee or pricing formula for horse back riding summer camps, but as a financial guide consider a budget of $150/day as "base costs"...next add your transportation costs including time away from work, gas, hotels both to and returning from camp...throw-in "incidentals" or pocket money for food, soda and entertainment and you'll get near to the actual costs for a typical horseback riding camp program.

Bottom Line. What could be cooler, and offer more adventure that's completely out-of-the-ordinary than a horse back riding camp? Kids get hands-on skills, learn about animal ecology and care, plus reach out to connected outdoors activities during this special time in their life.

Learn More About Horseback Riding Camps.
Please go to the following links for additional details on teen horseback riding summer camps for your family’s needs.

Horeseriding Camp Information: http://www.wise4living.com/kidsport/horse.htm

Summer Camps for Teens: http://www.wise4living.com/kidcamp/

Author Robin Derry is publisher for http://www.wise4living.com/ a specialty knowledge site that gives insights and solutions into specialty summer camps programs, auto tire and wheels technology trends, medical spas, home and gardening projects such as decks and deer fencing, technology trends, unique gift designs, HDTV and home entertainment systems, technology gifts, tips for families committed to youth summer camps, body health, household, sport, travel, footwear, education, spendthrift trusts and family law legal needs, and much more.

What Kind Of Saddle Should I Buy?

2010-07-20T19:38:00.000-07:00

This Article informs you on what kind of saddle you should purchase. The article was written by By Susanne Malloy. Happy reading!

Saddle Buying - English Or Western?

Susanne Malloy is an avid equestrian and an editor for http://www.EnglishSaddleShop.com, your complete resource for new and used English saddles, riding apparel, and tack.

Horse Back Riding Summer Activities

2010-07-19T18:42:00.000-07:00

Summer Activities Ideas - Horseback Riding is a Great Summer Activity

Written By Jose Perez

If you are looking for summer activities ideas you have probably come across a mountain of things that you can do. Summer is a time for activities and there are so many of them that you can choose to do. Horseback riding is a good activity that can be done in the summer. You do not have to own a horse to go riding there are many stables out there that will rent one to you. Some stables have open riding and some stables have trail riding. Depending on your skill level you may prefer one or the other. Even stables that have trail riding may allow you to ride the trail unguided. You will need to check with your local stables to find out their policy.

Even if you have never been horseback riding you can still go. Trail riding is perfect for novice riders. The guided trails will give you all of the security of having someone with you in case anything goes wrong and still have all of the enjoyment of riding. Some trail horses will just follow the trail and pace that they are used to no matter what you do in the saddle. These are usually the horses that they put beginners on. The will saddle the horses for you and get everything ready. They will go over a short training session on riding as well. Trail rides make horseback riding a great summer activities ideas for everyone.

Horseback is a great way to see and enjoy nature. You will get a whole new perspective of your surroundings. You may even notice things that you never noticed before. These are just some of the reasons that horseback riding is a great summer activities ideas. A lot of people have found that they really enjoy riding after their first trail ride. This could be the start of a great new hobby for you. You may even find that horseback riding works out muscles that you didn't even know that you had. Aside from being fun horseback riding can work out some muscles. If you wake up a little sore the next day it could be because these muscles are not used to being used. Horseback riding can be a great family or romantic summer idea as well. Some places will even set up a picnic lunch for you on your trail ride. This can be tailored to being family orientated or being a very romantic meal for two.

If you are looking for fun things to do in the summer then you are at the right site we can help with summer fun for kids.

Distinguishing Between Dressage Saddles

2010-07-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

Dressage Saddles - The Distinguishing Characteristics

[This article on Dressage Saddles was written by Lisa Blackstone.]

English saddles differ among themselves in several distinct ways. Primarily, the differences lay in the seat location and the flap shape and flap length. In disciplines like jumping where the rider needs shorter stirrups for extra support, the flap is more forward and shorter to accommodate the bend of the knee. For the same reason, the seat is positioned further back so that the rider is not pushed ahead of the saddle when jumping a fence. Additionally, padding in the seat and knee rolls of a saddle will assist the hunt seat rider, but is not necessary in other English saddles.

Within the discipline of Dressage, the rider sits more upright and with a longer stirrup length than a hunt seat rider because Dressage riders do not jump obstacles. Therefore, the saddle flap is longer and straighter down behind the horse's shoulder than a hunt saddle. The seat is closer to the horse's withers which helps keep the rider's center of gravity in the proper place. The pommel is a bit higher and the deepest point of the seat is more forward as it allows for a longer leg position.

The seat is usually much deeper in a Dressage saddle than a jumping saddle, and allows the rider to comfortably sit up in the saddle yet in a relaxed position to influence the horse. The padding of the panels is usually less than in a hunt saddle to permit a closer feel to the horse. It often has a wider bearing surface than a jumping saddle as well.

Some designs feature more padding in front of the knee, much more than in a jumping saddle, said to assist the rider in keeping the knee down and thigh back. However, there is usually little padding behind the calf, as the rider needs to be able to freely move the lower leg around to give aids to the horse.

The billets of most dressage saddles are very long, to allow the girth to be buckled near the horse's elbow rather than underneath the rider's leg (which would get in the way of giving effective leg aids).

It is important that your saddle fit both you and your horse. When you decide to select a Dressage saddle be sure you measure your horse from his hoof to his withers and then from his withers to his croup. You will need these measurements when you select your saddle to be sure it fits. However, if you ride more than one horse, it is not that practical to buy a different saddle for each one! You can try gel pads that will conform to your horse's shape to help your one saddle fit. Try to fit the saddle such that there is sufficient room between the gullet and the horse's withers and spaced over the spine evenly.

You should also sit in several Dressage saddles to find one that is most comfortable for you. Most often you can visit tack shops and sit in the Dressage saddle you may buy while it is on a saddle stand. Brands and styles vary, so become familiar with them all before spending a lot of money!

For more information on saddles go to: http://www.RidingSaddlesGuide.com or http://www.DressageTrainingGuide.com

Lisa B. Blackstone has been involved in the Arabian horse business all of her life. She is a practicing attorney in the Atlanta, Georgia area. Recently, Lisa launched two websites designed to teach the novice rider about horses and horsemanship. You can visit them at http://www.HorseAndRiderClub.com and http://www.AmericanHorseAssociation.com She is the host of The Horse and Rider Radio Show at Radio Sandy Springs.

Some Saddling Tips

2010-07-17T17:38:00.000-07:00

Saddle Up! Part 2

What kind of cantle is on your saddle? The style of cantle has a lot to do with how you can use the saddle.

The cantle has two main purposes. First, it holds the bars together in the rear of the saddle. Second, it provides support and stability to the rider to help prevent sliding backwards on the saddle when the horse accelerated forward.

Cantles come in all shapes and sizes. A high cantle provides high stability for the rider. It helps the rider stay on the horse. This feature also has a downside in that it makes mounting and dismounting more difficult as the rider has to swing the trailing leg over the cantle while mounting and dismounting.

Look at the saddles used by tie-down ropers in rodeos. These guys have to dismount very quickly after they rope a calf or a steer. They can't afford anything that slows their dismount down so their cantles are low. A friend was telling me of his father who was a working cowboy in his younger days back in the 1920s. As a gift to the father, then in his 90s, my friend went to a custom saddle shop and bought a saddle. This saddle had a high cantle and would be good and comfortable for riding. However, this was not the saddle his father had used as a working cowboy. He wanted a low cantle like he used back in his working cowboy days. The father was unable to ride because of his health but he wanted a saddle that looked like the one he used to ride. Jim dutifully took the saddle back to the shop and was able to exchange it for a roping saddle. Dad was satisfied.

Stunt riders also need saddles with low cantles. This allows them to crawl all over the horse while the horse is racing around the arena. Did you ever see Roy Rogers vault up on the back of Trigger and then into the saddle? Well Roy wasn't using a saddle with a 5" cantle (the bad guys would be out of sight before he got in the saddle).

On the other hand, team ropers and barrel racers like high cantles for the stability. They don't have to dismount rapidly. More to the point, they don't want an inadvertent dismount resulting from not being able to stay in the saddle during acceleration or change of direction.

Cantles on English-style or dressage saddles don't really have much of a cantle. The seat is spoon-like with a low back and no defined pommel. This style of saddle doesn't have a conventional tree, thus doesn't need anything to hold the bars together at the back and front.

Australian stock saddles tend to have a thick pad at the back and a spoon-like seat that results in a stable seat with a semi-cantle.

Several years ago, I was treated to some rides in Taiwan on Tiawanese cavalry horses through the recreational department of the U.S. Air Force base at Ching Chaun Kang. The ride was straight up and straight down (Taiwan means "terraced land"). The saddles were military-style with a high cantle featuring a projection about 1-1/2" wide extending about 3" above the main cantle. This projection was great for holding me in the saddle while going up the steep hills but it wore a blood blister right at my tailbone.

That's about it for cantles. Thanks for reading this article I hope you enjoyed this information. Look for more saddle information to come in Saddle Up! - Part 3.

http:\rockyknollranch.com
http:\horsinforpleasure.blogspot.com

How To Choose A Dressage Horse

2009-07-02T08:27:00.000-07:00

Finding a suitable dressage horse is a difficult task that requires planning and a thorough understanding of your horse needs. Before you start, you need to compile a list of what you want in your dressage horse along with a list of the characteristics that are not acceptable. In this article we'll cover how to build those lists, narrow your dressage horse selections, good dressage horse breeds and how to find the right horse for you.

The first step is determining your price and budget. This is going to be your guiding factor; from there you can work on eliminating horses with unacceptable characteristics. Here's a list of undesirable traits in a prospective dressage horse:

1. Poor movement.

Avoid a horse that isn't straight in its movement, both in front and behind.

2. Faulty conformation.

Any horse with a faulty conformation should also be avoided. Watch out for a horse that stands higher at his croup, has a low-set neck, or a poorly set-on head. Poor head conformation means the horse will have trouble opening up his neck and jaw, a detriment in dressage.

3. Wide frame.

Any horse that is too wide through the chest, shoulders and rib-cage will prevent you from riding with a good depth of seat and length of leg - both critical in dressage.

4. Narrow frame.

If the frame is too narrow, the horse's action may be too "close" in front or behind. Also, a weak horse won't perform as well.

5. Difficult temperament.

Ideally, you want a horse with a pliable temperament and a willingness to learn and work with you, rather than against you.

Now that we've covered some of the unwanted characteristics in a dressage horse, what are the more desirable traits?

1. Good conformation.

Look at the horse's conformation when it's standing naturally, and when he's moving. As you watch the horse, imagine the frame and appearance of a Grand Prix champion dressage horse, with the lowered coup and the horse rising up through the back and withers. You should see that potential in your prospective, young horse.

2. A horse to match your lifestyle.

Do you need a horse that thrives on work and daily activity, or one who can be content staying sedentary for a day or two? Does the height and size match your proportions?

3. Temperament.

A calm and consistent temperament that is compatible with your own will make training and competition much easier and all the more rewarding. Look for a horse that is full of character, but still manageable and trainable.

4. Good pace and movement.

The walk is so important, even on a loose rein. The horse's steps should be long and even in length. There should be no indication of tension, nor any inclination to hurry out of its steady, pacing rhythm.

What are some good dressage horse breeds?

Swedish Warmblood horses make popular dressage horses because they are compact, yet very strong. Even larger horses like the Irish draught do well due to their strong conformation and typical middle weight status. Finally, the Irish Trill is another popular dressage horse because it is strong enough to easily bear the rider's weight, but not
heavy in stature or in the way it caries itself.

That said, the ideal dressage horse has a strong frame without any serious weakness, a generous temperament, and the will to work and train as a partner. The shape and size of a dressage horse is surprisingly varied, and therefore so are your breed options.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com

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