Saddle - Parts of An Equestrian Saddle

Parts of An Equestrian Saddle

• Tree: the base on which the rest of the saddle is built. Usually based on wood or a similar synthetic material, it is eventually covered in leather or a leatherlike synthetic. The tree size determines its fit on the horse's back as well as the size of the seat for the rider.
• Seat: the part of the saddle where the rider sits, it is usually lower than the pommel and cantle to provide security
• Pommel or Pomnel (English)/ Swells (Western): the front, slightly raised area of the saddle.
• Cantle: the back of the saddle
• Stirrup: part of the saddle in which the rider's feet go; provides support and leverage to the rider.
• Leathers and Flaps (English) or Fenders (Western): The leather straps connecting the stirrups to the saddle tree and leather flaps giving support to the rider's leg and protecting the rider from sweat.
• D-ring: a "D"-shaped ring on the front of a saddle, to which certain pieces of equipment (such as breastplates) can be attached.
• Girth or Cinch: A strap that goes under the horse's barrel that holds the saddle on.
• Panels, Lining or Padding: Cushioning on the underside of the saddle.

In addition to the above basic components, some saddles also include:

• Surcingle: A long strap that goes over a saddle and around the horse's barrel to hold the saddle on.
• Monkey grip or less commonly a jug handle is a handle that may be attached to the front of European saddles or on the right side of Australian stock saddle. A rider may use it to help maintain their seat or to assist in mounting.
• Horn: knob-like appendage attached to the pommel or swells, most commonly associated with the modern western saddle, but seen on some saddle designs in other cultures.
• knee rolls: Seen on some English saddles, extra padding on the front of the flaps to help stabilize the rider's leg. Sometimes thigh rolls are also added to the back of the flap.