Reprinted from John Lyons’ Perfect Horse Copyright © 1999 Belvoir Publications, Inc. John Lyons’ Perfect Horse is published monthly (12 Issues ) by Belvoir Publications, Inc., 75 Holly Hill Lane, Box 2626, Greenwich, Conn. 06836-2626., 800-829-2521. Subscriptions –$24 annually.

ON THE TRAIL

Saddle Up To Synthetic

If there’s one word for synthetic saddles it's easy"
They’re easy to lift, easy to clean and definitely easy on the pocketbook.
It can even be easy to pick the right one for you and your horse.
 

Tired of hauling that 40-pound Western saddle down off the saddle rack and then hoisting it up onto the back of your horse? Equally tired of cleaning that same saddle with expensive leather-care products. Are you thinking of buying a second saddle to try out a new sport, but your budget Can’t quite bear such a hefty purchase? The solution? It’s simple — synthetic. Synthetic saddles have come a long way in the past few years. Today’s improved materials are softer, more pliable and less likely to crack, and some look almost identical to leather, from beautiful imprinted pigskin patterns to sumptuous-feeling, non-slip faux suedes. Synthetic saddlemakers have added more traditional details to their designs, too, so it’s often almost impossible to spot a synthetic 'leatherlook’ saddle in a crowd of its real-leather cousins.

Why select synthetic instead of leather? Lots of reasons. First of all, just about everyone — but particularly Western, trail and endurance riders — can appreciate the fact that a synthetic saddle usually weighs much less than its leather counterpart (and you know the horses appreciate less weight to tote, too!). Most synthetic Western saddles weigh under 25 pounds, and English synthetics often weigh less than 10 pounds. Soft, supple fabrics also mean that synthetic saddles are almost immediately comfortable, with little-to-no break-in needed.

If you get caught in the rain during a ride, or decide to splash through the creek on a hot afternoon, a synthetic saddle won’t stop you — it’s practically weatherproof. Good-quality synthetic materials are also fairly rugged and resistant to scuffs, scratches and scrapes, so you can cinch up a synthetic saddle for heavy-duty use or for training and save your good leather saddle for shows.

Cleaning an all-synthetic saddle is a cinch, as well — simply wipe it off with a damp rag or, if it’s really dirty, hose it down with water and set it in the shade to dry.

Western synthetics can he a bit trickier, though, since many are made of combination synthetic and real leather. You’ll still have to clean and oil the leather parts as usual, but the parts that usually get the dirtiest — the fenders, housings and skirts — are almost always synthetic.

So, not only is it easier to keep a synthetic saddle clean, but it’s also less expensive, since you’ll need fewer leather care products. In fact, synthetic saddle makers warn against using saddle soaps and oils, which can eat away at the synthetic materials.

Best of all, a faux-leather saddle can be a real deal when it comes to writing out the check. Our English test saddles cost from $199 to $450, arid our Western models ranged from $200 to $620.

Most English saddles are sold without fittings (girth, stirrup leathers or stirrups). Western synthetics do come with renders and stirrups, but only a few include a girth or breastcollar. And, as always, we encourage you to check around for prices, be sure to ask about each specific retailer’s return policy on saddles, in case the model you order doesn’t fit you or your horse.

Since synthetic saddles are supremely suitable for trail-riding — long miles, rough terrain, unpredictable weather — we asked for Western trail models (size 16"  seat) and English all-purpose models (size 17 1/2" seat). English models usually offer a choice of tree size (typically regular or wide), and all our makers sent regulars.

Western synthetics seldom offer a choice — most are made with either semi-Quarter Horse bars (similar to "regular" width) or Quarter Horse bars (which are wider). For a detailed explanation of saddle terminology, see "Western Saddle Lingo," June ‘99, and our saddle-fit series from October and November ‘98.

Using whatever size we were sent, we saddled up and rode. We tried each saddle on at least 10 different-shaped horses, and put several numerous riders aboard — men and women, seniors and kids.

We paid particular attention to how well the saddle fit the shape of each horse’s back, as well as how comfy it was to each rider. While both fit and comfort vary according to individual shape and preferences, we looked for general agreement before commenting.

We also checked each model to see how easily the stirrups adjusted.

We made some interesting discoveries. First, no longer do synthetics look like they did when they first came on the market. Gone is the hard plastic appearance. You can now look as traditional in synthetic as in real leather. They cleaned up easily, and we didn’t have to worry when kids or guests let our saddle drop to the ground (being traditionalists, we still cringe, but now we calmly pick the saddle up).

When the first English synthetic saddles came on the market, you had to purchase synthetic leathers and girths, adding to the cost of the saddle. That’s no longer the case, though Weatherbeeta® recommends that you use stirrup leathers with a roller buckle and advises there are advantages to synthetic fittings.

The English saddles all looked like high-dollar saddles and were wool-flocked. The flocking allows the saddle to shape to the horse and is generally considered an important feature in more expensive saddles.

In addition to our testers, we had lots of people at a riding club try the saddles. Probably one of our most noteworthy observations was the number of people who had never before considered synthetics, but were surprised and delighted at having tried them. We think they are worth some careful consideration, too.

ENGLISH SYNTHETICS

"Fleetwood" SynTack AP

Miller’s; $300, saddle only. SynTack stirrup leathers $29.95.

New this year, Miller’s SynTack synthetic saddles are as good looking as they are affordable. Made in England, the Fleetwood, the line’s "economy" saddle, has exceptional attention to detail in construction with movable knee rolls, a foam-padded seat, and soft, flocked panels with four easy-access points for re-stuffing. Additional saddle features include a non-slip knitted nylon seat, panels and padded flaps, plus a cutback pommel to allow extra clearance over the withers (also, the tree has flexible points to avoid pinching the horse’s shoulders). All materials are UV-resistant and will not be affected by temperature extremes.

While the Fleetwood’s tree fit a horse with substantial, wide withers, the seat’s twist was among the narrowest that we test-rode, making it less comfortable than the other English saddles for many riders. (The "twist" or "waist" of the saddle is the area between the rider’s thighs).

Fitting instructions explain that the panels’ flocking will take the shape of the horse’s back within minutes of riding, and that the pommel will drop significantly during this "molding" period (i.e., a SynTack saddle should initially fit higher under the gullet than a traditional leather saddle). We liked the D-ring attachments behind the flaps, ideal for carrying along a trailside lunch or a camera bag.

"Fairfax" SynTack AP

Miller’s; $400, saddle only.

The primary difference between the "Fairfax" and the "Fleetwood" is the "Sure-Grip" synthetic suede material on the seat and flaps of the "Fairfax," and our test riders really liked it. "You don’t slide around, but you don’t feel stuck to it, either. I’ll never have to buy full-seat britches again," one tester commented. Also, ProLite inserts in the padded flaps provide extra absorption for rider comfort. As on the "Fairfax," D-ring attachments offer take-along options.

Our comments regarding the fit and feel of the Fleetwood also apply to the Fairfax.

Pro-Ride AP

Dover Saddlery; $399, saddle only.
Pro-Ride leather-look stirrup leathers,54", $29.70.

Manufactured in England exclusively for Dover Saddlery, the Pro-Ride all-purpose saddle features a supremely comfortable ProLite gel seat and kneepads. The wide seat was comfortable even for our male riders (two men who usually ride Western said they’d consider English if they had a ProRide!). Velcro knee rolls can be repositioned for rider security.

This saddle with its body-conforming wool-stuffed panels fit all our test horses nicely — from a high-withered warmblood to a wide-shouldered stock horse. Our test riders also loved the imprinted pigskin pattern on the synthetic leather-look material.

Thorowgood All-Weather AP

State Line Tack; $199, saddle only.Synthetic stirrup leathers, $27.90.

The foam-padded seat of this made-in-England Thorowgood model is covered with a UV-resistant, leather-look fabric, which also covers the middle of the leg flaps. The knee blocks can be positioned to suit the rider. Though we received a regular-size tree, this saddle was the narrowest we tested, and it initially "bridged" on several of our test horses. State Line’s Barbara Nelson explained, however, that buyers should expect the saddle to sit slightly high initially, since the saddle’s tree and flocked panels will "settle" after about 10 hours of riding. We found that to be true. It settled down to fit just fine.

The seat’s twist was also quite narrow, enough so that it was uncomfortable for some of our riders. The underside panels are not waterproof, so the saddle should not be hosed or saturated with water, although the manufacturer says it’s fine to ride it in the rain. A label with saddle-care instructions in four languages is sewn on the saddle’s underside.

Wintec 2000 AP

Weatherbeeta; $449, saddle only.

The regular-size tree and broad, wool-flocked panels of the Wintec 2000 AP made for a nice fit on most of our test horses.

The Easy Change Gullet System lets you custom-fit the head of the Elastiflex injection-molded tree to your horse’s withers, with no unstitching need (i.e., no carting it off to a saddler) to go from narrow to extra wide. This beneficial feature lets you change the fit of the saddle if your horse changes shape (muscling, weight loss or gain, etc.) or if you ride different horses. Replacement gullet plates, in six widths, are only $14.95 each.

Changing the gullet took a bit of effort (our tester wished she had more than just two hands), but with practice, it got easier.

With three layers of foam, the super-comfortable seat is covered in a wear-resistant, good-grip Equisuede fabric which most of our riders appreciated for extra security in the saddle. The adjustable Flexibloc knee-roll system allows each rider to individually tailor their thigh and knee support. A double-recessed stirrup bar eliminates the buckle lump.

Our testers liked the fact that the pommel was not as high as with some of the other saddles, making it more comfortable for foxhunting, for instance, or unsteady riders.

Wintec 500 AP

Weatherbeeta; $329.95, saddle only.

An all-purpose Wintec 500 was not available for testing, but Weatherbeeta sent us a Wintec 500 dressage model, which is made of the same materials and offers the same features as the AP. Designed along classic lines and made with a quality abrasion-resistant leather-look material, it’s virtually indistinguishable, at a distance, from a traditional real-leather saddle. Wide, wool-flocked panels and a wide gullet channel ensure good distribution of the rider’s weight over the horse’s back, and we found the regular tree fit several of our test horses.

It has the same Easy Change Gullet System, adjustable Flexibloc knee-roll system and lower pommel as the Wintec 2000. The softly padded seat was comfortable. We especially appreciate the recessed stirrup bars, which reduce lumpiness under the rider’s leg.

WESTERN SYNTHETICS

Abetta Ultimate Trail Rider     

Action Company; $450, saddle with front cinch (rear cinch available).

Beautifully constructed, this saddle showed no signs of wear, even after hours and hours of test riding. The leather-reinforced stirrup leathers with two-prong roller buckles (which we prefer over Blevins buckles) and Velcro-strap stirrup hobbles were the easiest in our test to adjust; and with 14" of adjustability, we could shorten them enough even for a 4’11" rider.

The seat was one of the widest in our test, and it had a wide twist. Though it’s synthetic, the material on the seat feels like top-quality suede, and we liked how the fenders lay nicely around our leg. Other saddle features: engraved silverplate conchos, 7/8-position in-skirt rigging, 2" bell composite-plastic stirrups and 3 1/4" leather-covered horn.

It’s available in black. brown and Southwest patterns in five different colors. Also, be sure to shop around.

Am Tech Pleasure Saddle

American Saddlery; $450, saddle only, model #386-1.

This saddle was our first choice for youth riders because of its comfortable flat seat, high-back cantle and the generous 21" of stirrup strap adjustability (shortening the most of any in our test).

The holes in the stirrup leathers were an excellent, large size, and the tongue of the Blevins buckle slipped easily into them. However, we found it difficult to pull the collar back down because the doubled-and-stitched nylon leathers were thick. The manufacturer agreed that they were thick and tight with initial use, but said that they provided additional strength and durability (they indicated that easier-to-adjust lighter-weight poly stirrup straps are available but are not as strong or durable).

We found the fit of this Cordura-and-leather saddle (with regular Quarter Horse bars) to be narrower than many others in our test, although the manufacturer also offers a full-Quarter Horse bar for horses who need a wider fit. The seat’s foam padding did not appear to be beveled, so we noticed a ridge under the suede. Testers with more sensitive seats were aware of it while others were not.

Other saddle features: 7/8-position on-tree rigging with front dee, 2" Visalia stirrups and a 3" leather-covered horn. Available in black, brown, red, blue, green, burgundy, teal, turquoise or hot pink.

Big Horn Cordura Trail Saddle

Big Horn Inc.; $425, model #194. 

The nicest-looking synthetic Western saddle on our test-saddle rack, Big Horn’s Cordura trail saddle features a quilt-stitched skirt, back housing and fenders, along with one of the most finely finished leather horns and swells in our test. We especially liked the way the dark Cordura so closely matched the color of the leather for a nice traditional look.

We also liked the wide, smooth seat for freedom of movement in the saddle. Though we noticed padding edges under the seat leather, the maker explained that the dense, thick-foam pad rides well for a longer period of time without compressing or deteriorating as much as thinner, less expensive foam pads.

With 17" of adjustability, the nylon stirrup straps were easy to adjust with inline Blevins buckles. We noticed that the cantle conchos were not at the same "height," but you’d have to be really looking to find that. Other saddle features: 7/8-position on-tree rigging and Ralide stirrups with laced foot pad.

Court’s Cordura Trail Saddle

Court’s Saddlery Co.; $585, saddle with front cinch, #6016.

With the most leather in our test (only the skirt and fenders are Cordura), this well-made saddle nicely fit our wide-shouldered stock horses. Our testers also found its padded-and-stitched seat quite comfortable.

Adjustability in the leather-reinforced nylon stirrup straps, however, limit this saddle to long-legged riders; though they’ll lengthen quite a ways, the fenders don’t adjust up very short. The 3"-wide Ralide stirrups (the widest in our test, great for riders with heeled "hiking-style" boots) with leather foot pads offer lots of foot support. A 3" band of nylon webbing sewn at the bottom of the Cordura skirt adds to the saddle’s durability, especially where the front rigging D rests. While the synthetic brown didn’t match the leather seat perfectly, we aren’t as concerned about looks for trail riding as we would be for shows. 

Other saddle features: 7/8-position on-tree double rigging, fleece-backed skirts and a 3 1/2" horn.

Fabtron Trail/Roper Saddle

Fabtron; $620, fittings includedm model 7110S.

We found lots to like with this Fabtron model: It was an excellent fit on our stock-type test horses; the extra-padded latex closed-cell foam seat made it tops in rider comfort; it came with front and rear cinches; and the top-quality leather did not spot, even after riding under a sprinkler. With beautifully matched leather and premium 1,000-donier Cordura, its good-looking traditional styling made this saddle one of our top picks.

The leather-reinforced nylon stirrup straps with Blevins buckles offer 18" of adjustability. The fenders molded nicely around the leg (which our ankles appreciated), but, like all the other fenders on the Western synthetics, they wrinkled and creased after use. There was also a noticeable wrinkle on the back housing at the concho. 

Other saddle features: on-tree double rigging, 3 1/2" horn and leather-covered-and-laced stirrups.

Dr. J Cordura Pleasure Saddle

Jeffers Equine; $315.19.

Made exclusively for Jeffers by Nash Leather, the Dr. J features a Cordura skirt, housing and fenders, with a leather swell, horn, cantle and rough-out seat. Though we liked the dark coffee color of our brown sample, some of the nap on the suede seat ribbed off on the first ride.

Also, there’s no stitching around the seat jockey (which curls upward) and no adjustment holes in the nylon latigo/tie strap.

Our test riders found the seat uncomfortable, relatively speaking, due to the outer curve of the 5"-tall cantle. 

Other saddle features: 3/4-position on-tree rigging, D-rings for breastcollar and on back housing, and Blevins buckles on synthetic stirrup straps.

Lamb Cordura Western Saddle

Lamb Saddle Company; $341, saddle only; accessory package about $43 (Cordura pad, breast strap and girth).

This saddle came out of the box with a scuffed cantle, which the maker suggested most likely resulted from friction during shipping. The horn was finished with scalloped-cut leather, and the seat’s foam pad was not beveled, leaving a ridge in the seat. Though the saddle was designed for rider comfort (the 5" cantle is intended to give added back support and to help hold the rider in the saddle on steep trails), the outer corners of the cantle tended to poke into the back of our test riders’ upper thighs. 

Saddlemaker Nathan Lamb suggested, however, that the height of the cantle tends to make riders sit deeper into the saddle and that buyers should consider buying a larger-size seat than they would normally ride with a low-cantle saddle. 

Other saddle features: 7/8-position on-tree front rigging, Blevins buckles and 2"-wide plastic bell stirrups.

Brand X Synthetic Saddle

Whitman Saddle Manufacturing Co.; $199.50, girth included (price good through 1999; new models and prices for the year 2000).

An adult-size synthetic model of Whitman’s new Brand X line of saddles wasn’t available for testing, so we took their 10"-seat pony-size sample for a test-spin instead. Fortunately, we had an assortment of lesson ponies available.

The tree nicely fits fat, flat-withered ponies, and the suede seat was perfectly contoured for little kids. With soft fenders and no break-in time needed, this saddle was comfortable on the very first ride, a real bonus with young riders (as is the all-synthetic materials, for easy clean-up, even by kids).

Our adult supervisor noted, however, that the saddle was rigged too far forward, making it unstable in the back (Whitman says all new Brand X models for 2000 will have double-rigging). The slick fabric also showed puckers at some of the conchos, which the manufacturer says been corrected in the newer shipments.

Wintec Synthetic Western

Partrade Trading Company;$399.

We found this Wintec hard to fit to our test horses; narrow in front, it rode high in back, no matter what shape of horse we put it on. Although the seat was the most fully padded (and softest in the test, our riders said they could feel the pad’s edge at the seat jockey). We found the stirrup straps difficult to adjust. Although equipped with Blevins buckles, the biothane lining on the straps made the buckles tight, and we had to enlarge the holes for the buckle posts. The saddle sports pretty conchos, and our riders noticed that no dirt or hair adhered to the slick synthetic-leather material. 

Other saddle features: 7/8-position on-tree double rigging and fleece-lined skirts.

BOTTOM LINE