Care of new saddle

[Wheels]

I have just purchased a brand new saddle - I've never had a brand new one before and am not sure what to do about oiling etc.

Can anyone help me. Best stuff to use? How much to use? How often. Can I ride in straight away or does it need oiling etc first?

 

[appylass]

I use Jeffries leather cream on my nearly-new one. I think the creams are better than oil, Stubben Hamanol is great too. I want to keep mine in as good condition as I possibly can so I clean it after (almost) every ride too. I like Hydrophane leather cleaner for getting the grime off )

 

[Housemouse]

Just wipe off the dirt and dust with a damp flannel.

When dry, use a leather dressing such as the one mentioned above or NAF leather balm. Traditional soaps tend to dry the leather out in the end and oil makes leather stretch and both can make the stitching rot.

 

[Tnavas]

Lightly oil the rough side of the leather - and saddle soap the outside.

I have some lovely stuff that is made from Avocado oil and beeswax - I use it on the underside of the leather - the rough side and because it is semi solid it doesn't drip where you don't want it and it's hard to over oil.

To look after well, wipe over after every ride with a damp cloth and saddle soap. I have a Fulmer Dressage saddle that would have been made in the early 70's - its in fantastic condition. Made of leather like you don't see any more.