I've just ordered a western saddle.....

[Waffles]

I've wanted one since I was a kid, and now I have ordered one....... any suggestions where to start, apart from putting it on etc.

 

[Enfys]

http://wes-uk.com/

List of trainers, clinics, etc, presumably they have a forum too. Helpful group.

There are some very helpful members on here who ride western too, I am sure they will be willing to give you some pointers.

How experienced with all things western are you?
Is your horse western trained already, or are you planning on riding English just with a western saddle?
There are loads of instructional videos about putting on saddles correctly, exercises etc.

Larry Trocha has a whole series of tapes: http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=Larry+Trocha&qpvt=Larry+Trocha&FORM=VDRE

Recent HHO thread about western stuff, lots of 'in the know' peeps on there: http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=531908

 

[Waffles]

I have no experience of western riding whatsoever.... the saddle I have ordered is one from Snowhill and is a cheapy. If it doesn't work out, I'll sell it on e bay. I can manage stuff like neck reining and think I ride like a cowboy slightly anyway....

 

[s4sugar]

You may as well cancel your order or return it under the distance selling regulations as it will not be suitable for you horse.

The cheapy Asian made western saddles are on a par with the GP equivalents.

Ask on the link above for advice.

 

[Waffles]

I thought this might be the case.... oh well, will put it on e bay then...

 

[Enfys]

I am afraid that the asian tack is mainly awful, generally very hard leather for a start, you can soak it in a vat of neatsfoot for a month and it still comes out rigid Been there, done that .

I think your best bet is to actually ask on here where people would recommend getting a decent western saddle, there are several reputable western stores in the UK and they probably have consignment items that are no doubt a lot cheaper than a brand new saddle at 4 figures.

Ask the Western people

 

[Capriole]

if youve only just ordered it I think youd be better off cancelling rather than putting it on ebay

 

[Rhandir]

please cancel it, it will do your horse far more harm than good.

 

[Casey76]

Western saddles are notoriously difficult to fit properly, and have to be padded correctly, espeically due to their weight.

Although I LOVE riding in a Western saddle, I'm having to content myself with the occasional holiday to the US

The first time I went to a saddle shop in Montana I was astounded at the range of saddles there are, before you get the to the skirting and fender arrangements!

 

[noodle_]

id love to try riding in a western saddle!!!

definately agree with getting it fitted etc tho - its the same as any "normal" saddle imo

 

[moana]

I have used two Western Saddles, currently still own one. They are fantastic to ride in, but must be fitted with care.