Western saddles are used by horseback riders who want a sturdy, comfortable seat. Originally developed as a practical saddle for riders during battles or long rides, the Western saddle has evolved into the best option for cattle ranchers, cowboys, trail riders and inexperienced riders. Each part of a contemporary Western saddle plays an important role in the overall function of the saddle, and they all work together to maintain the comfort and security of both horse and rider.
Seat
One of the most basic parts of the Western saddle is the seat. Although you might think of the entire saddle as functioning as a place to sit, there is actually only one specific part of it called the seat, according to the website Horseridinggear.net. The seat is on the top of the middle section of the saddle, directly behind the pommel, the raised part at the front of the Western saddle, and directly in front of the cantle, the raised section at the back. Because it is between two raised sections, the seat has room to dip slightly lower. This lower space allows the rider to rest his buttocks in the seat and be more secure.
Horn
Another part often considered characteristic of Western saddles is the horn. The horn is at the front of the saddle on top of the middle of the pommel, and is therefore often called the pommel horn, according to the website mini-horse-pony-tack-guide.com. You will find the horn very useful when you need extra stability while riding your horse. You can lightly hold the horn while you have reins in both hands, or you can grip the horn with one hand while holding the reins with the other. You also can loop the reins over and around the horn so that they are secure, then hold on with both hands.
Stirrups
The stirrups are an important component of Western saddles because they provide a place for you to comfortably and safely place your feet. They are two pieces of metal that have four sides formed into an almost-parallelogram shape with curved edges. The stirrups attach to each side of the saddle via a leather fender that protects your legs from rubbing against your horse's side, according to equestrian author Lisa Brooks Blackstone. The length at which the stirrups hang is adjustable so you can fit them to your legs. In Western-style riding, the stirrups are worn low on the leg so that your knees are almost straight.
Cinch and Cinch Strap
To secure the saddle on top of your horse's back so that it won't slip off, you need to use another part of the Western saddle called the cinch. The cinch, which also is sometimes known as the girth, attaches to the cinch strap on the saddle. This cinch strap hangs off both the left and right sides of the saddle and resembles half of a belt --- it is leather with adjustable holes for the cinch. Your saddle will stay in place while you ride once the cinch is affixed to the saddle and snugly wrapped around under your horse's belly.
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