Advice on Saddle

Horsemania

Hi there I was just wondering if anyone could give me some advice on whether to go with a synthetic saddle or a leather one. I wondered if the synthetic ones would last as long. If someone has used both and had some advice that would be great.

Angelmangle

I used to like the idea of synthetic saddles until I rode in one and really didn't like it at all. Felt very unbalanced. But that was a good few years ago and I'm sure they have improved a lot since then. Some of the dressage ones look very comfy

I do think a good quality leather saddle would probably last longer though.

Chicken Run

not a huge amount of help I know, but I prefer the synthetic ones for comfort and ease of looking after - I find I slide around more on a leather saddle

I have one of these and I love it

http://www.rideaway.co.uk/thorowgood-easyfit-adjustable-saddle-by-maxam/default.aspx?var=143437&utm_source=google&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=purenet_feed

Ave Sodalis

I would imagine that the leather saddles would last longer than synthetic, for the simple reason that they have all sorts of creams and conditioners to keep them like new. True, synthetics are easier washed, but leather tends to last a lifetime if cared for properly.

As for which to go to, synthetics tend to be more comfortable but again, leathers more enduring. Personally, I would go for leather unless I have a light horse (TBs, Arabs etc.) in which case I would use a synthetic. But that's just me

byhookorbycrook

I have a Berneys, wouldn't trade it for diamonds. Tried one or two types of synthetics and really didn't like them at all. My berneys is as good as the day I got it-my friend has gone through 3 synthetic in the same period.