Be the SQUARE and let everyone know “safety comes first”
Remember to restore worn or broken parts of your saddle to ensure your safety. Checking your saddle regularly will take but a few seconds of your time and could mean the difference between Saddling up with the Long Riders and Saddling down at the Casuals Desk.
- Saddle check list:
- Rigging and adjustments: check your billet straps and girth, they receive more wear than other parts of the saddle and require much attention, for weakening of leather and hardware parts.
- Stirrups, stirrup leathers & buckles.
- Blanket or pad for sharp objects.
- Check your bridle parts: throat strap, curb chain or strap, cheeks, reins, bridle bits, plus all points of attachment.
- Replace:
- Leather that shows signs of wear, stretch, cracking, stiffness or elongation of holes.
- Worn lacing, broken or rusted hardware and girth with damaged areas.
- Wash moisture, sweat and salt from all equipment after each use and allow these to naturally dry.
- Clean your hardware to prevent rust.
- Avoid extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.
- Store equipment in a dry room.
Evolution of the Western Saddle
