Southwestern Equine field notes
Detailed guides when you want to understand the whole subject. Practical articles when you have a question to answer.
Get to know your saddle.
Find the right place to start.
Take a closer look
Work through a subject at your own pace, with detailed explanations and sections you can return to.
Saddle anatomy
Learn the names of the parts, see what each one does, and understand how they work together.
Inside this guideLabeled saddle diagram / Parts and their purpose
Explore the guideCheck your setup
Work through pad placement and the checks to make with your horse, saddle, and pad together.
Inside this guidePad placement / Coverage and clearance / Ride checks
Explore the guideChoose by need
Start with your riding needs, saddle-fit concerns, and your horse's shape before comparing pads.
Inside this guidePerformance / Saddle fit / Horse conformation
Explore the guideSaddle fit
How saddle bars carry a rider's weight, what happens when they lose contact, and where shims and built-in padding fit into the picture.
Inside this guideSaddle bars / Contact gaps / Shims and padding
Explore the guideRiding disciplines
Find your discipline, then explore its riding demands and saddle-pad considerations.
Inside this guideDiscipline index / Individual discipline guides
Explore the guideFrom the barn and tack room
Individual reads on riding, equipment, and everyday horse care.
Barrel racing, a popular rodeo event that showcases the exceptional skills of both horse and rider, has a rich history rooted in the American West. This exciting, fast-paced sport has...
Read articleIntroductionThe Old West is a period in American history marked by rugged landscapes, sprawling cattle ranches, and the iconic figure of the cowboy. Known for their rugged individualism and no-nonsense...
Read articleHORSE CONFORMATION DEFINITION: Horse conformation is the assessment of how a horse's physical features, movement, and behavior affect its suitability for a particular job or sport. This often includes an...
Read articleHow to properly wash your horse Giving your horse a bath should be a fun and relaxing time for you and your horse. Start with good habits and a plan...
Read articleHow to prevent and treat saddle sores on your horse's back. How to prevent and treat saddle sores on your horse's back. Here are some steps you can take to...
Read articleProperly sizing a Western horse saddle is a crucial step that can make a difference between a good horse and a bad horse. White spots at the withers are a...
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