Gaited horse saddles are a specialized form of horse equipment used with a wide variety of specialized breeds. Available in both English and Western styles, these saddles offer a unique fit designed specifically with the breed specific movements of gaited horses in mind. Understanding the special traits and characteristics offered by gaited horses coupled with the stylistic differences in the tack versus a standard saddle will ensure consumers end up with the perfect saddle.
With a vast and diverse collection of gaited breeds available globally, riders require a large collection of saddles to fully enjoy these breeds worldwide. Unlike the majority of horses worldwide, which travel in a two-beated footfall pattern, gaited horses use each of their legs independently whereby creating a specialized four-beat footfall pattern. Many breeds have their own unique gait or set of gaits including Tennessee Walkers, Missouri Foxtrotters and Paso Finos.
When outfitting a gaited horse, consideration needs to be given to the special way of going unique to these special breeds. By using each leg individually, these horses have increased levels of back and shoulder movements. As such, specially designed gaited saddles allows for fluidity of motion.
Gaited horses outfitted with conventional tack frequently succumb to injury and discomfort. Traditional saddles hinder the excessive motion of the shoulders and back performed by gaited horses resulting in the loss of these special movements. As such, gaited horse riders in the market for new tack should pay careful attention to purchasing a special saddle that addresses their mount’s unique conformation needs.
When selecting a saddle for a gaited horse, purchasers should be aware of the unique traits and movements possessed by these special breeds. Consideration should be given to locating a saddle that will benefit both the horse and rider partnership. Fortunately, a wide variety of English and Western saddles are available for gaited horses. Check out Equestrian saddles or Wintec stock saddle.
