Frequently, people ask questions like, Is owning my own saddle worth it? And should I just buy my own saddle? That being said, there isn’t a simple, universally applicable answer. If you only take lessons or don’t own a horse, buying your saddle can seem pointless and expensive. Having your own saddle, however, has numerous advantages, even if you don’t own a horse. Some of the greatest benefits of having your own saddle are as follows:
Convenience
The main advantage of owning a saddle is its simple convenience. You never have to adjust your stirrups or worry that someone else is riding in it when you want to ride. If you’ve ever taken lessons at a large lesson barn without your own gear, you know the miseries of sharing a saddle. When someone gets to it first, you find out that the saddle is gone. If you’re scared of the idea of racing or jumping dressage saddle comes as a better choice.
Fit
The most important thing about owning a saddle is that it fits you perfectly. This alone has many advantages. Properly sized seats and flaps will support the rider and promote proper leg position. A well-fitting saddle not only helps you ride better but it also helps you maintain better balance, which in turn leads to happier horses. You may be unintentionally knocking your horse off balance. You can also use a horse saddle pad, which protects your saddle from wear and tear and also from sweat and dirt.
High-Quality Care
Another positive feature is that you use the saddle exclusively, so you are aware of how it is being maintained. You don’t know how other people will treat the saddle you borrow or use as a lesson because they will use it while you aren’t. You don’t even know if they cleaned it, or maybe they dropped it, and it got scratched up. If you have your own saddle, you can monitor its location and the level of care it is receiving. You can also use horse rugs to cover and warm your horse as these rugs are made specifically for riding, with the saddle cut-out, so your horse will be well protected when you ride on cool days.
A Future-Proof Investment
You will quickly see why higher-end saddles are so costly after you have ridden in one. They are an actual investment in your riding career because they are incredibly comfortable for you and your horse and help you stay in the right position. A well-maintained saddle can last a lifetime, so although the initial cost may seem high, it eventually pays for itself. Additionally, you are not required to purchase a brand-new saddle. Additionally, there are lots of great secondhand saddle options.
Imparts Responsibility
One significant benefit of purchasing your first saddle is that it’s a great way to impart responsibility. It’s not a covert saddle. It can be unsettling to entrust something as costly as them to a child, young adult, or even yourself. A thorough cleaning and porcelain treatment should follow every ride. It makes the owner feel proud and can serve as a valuable gauge of whether or not they are ready to take on horse ownership. Before hitting the trails, ensure your horse is comfortably equipped with fly rugs for horses and a well-fitted saddle for a stylish and secure ride.
Conclusion
Having your own saddle underscores the significance of this investment. Owing a saddle is not just a convenience but a commitment to a more enjoyable and fulfilling equestrian experience. Investing in your saddle is essential since it’s not just about riding but also about enhancing every equestrian moment and making each one uniquely yours.
