Gaited Horse Saddles – Comfort For The Horse And The Rider
Gaited horses use each leg independently, creating a four-beat gait, instead of running like a traditional horse
with a two-beat footfall. This creates a smoother ride because each foot is moving independently of the rest, but
it also sends much more motion through the horse’s shoulders and back.
Therefore, gaited horse saddles are a crucial piece of equipment and the proper saddle fit is critical. If the
saddle does not fit the horse correctly, the horse will drop its gait because it is feeling uncomfortable or
restricted. Gaited horse saddles fit a wide range of gaited horses and are specifically built for the unique way in
which a gaited horse moves.
Gaited horse saddles feature special skirts that are shorter and more rounded than traditional saddles and
therefore produce little gait interference. There are also a variety of rigging options that permit free shoulder
movement. The seats are usually specialized, as well, as they are designed to absorb shock and minimize
transference between the horse and the rider. Finally, the stirrups are designed specially in order to decrease
knee and ankle fatigue and encourage balanced riding.
Gaited horse saddles are also often used with other types of horses, including quarter horses and thoroughbreds.
Such horses with big shoulders or a prominent wither may be more comfortable with a gaited horse saddle. If a
regular quarter horse saddle does not work well with your horse, a gaited horse saddle may solve the problem.
The main differences between a gaited horse saddle and a standard horse saddle are the gullet and the front of
the frame of the saddle. On a gaited horse saddle, the gullet is taller, and the front of the saddle frame is
flared outward. In this way, the gaited horse saddle minimizes interference with the shoulders of the horse and
allows it to move easily into its gaits.
The saddle tree is also different on a gaited horse saddle. The saddle tree is essentially the saddle’s
foundation. Gaited horse saddles have gaited bars on the tree that are a little more narrow and shorter than
quarter horse bars. The result is that the bars do not interfere with the horse’s shoulders or hind legs.
With a gaited horse saddle, the rider sits further back on the horse than with a traditional horse saddle. The
result is that the rider is much closer to the horse’s center of gravity, making the ride more comfortable for both
the horse and the rider. Gaited horse saddles are lightweight, very stable, and fun to ride.
Many riders are surprised by how freely their horse moves, especially downhill, with a gaited horse saddle. The
horse remains perfectly balanced and actually has more energy. The horse will also be less sore, even after a long
ride. In fact, gaited horses are becoming increasingly popular for endurance riding.
Gaited horse saddles provide comfort for both the horse and the rider, and they’re useful on more than just
gaited horses, too. Their easy fit lets your horse happily settle into its gait and allow you to ride to your
heart’s content.
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