Synthetic Saddle
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Leather Vs. Synthetic - Choosing the Right Material For Your Saddle
When shopping for a saddle, you will see that there is a wide range of options available to you. Not only are there many different styles of saddle, there are also a range of materials from which the saddles are made.
At first glance, it may seem obvious what material is best for a saddle, but it is actually a little more difficult that you might expect. The following comparison should give you a good idea about what each material offers the rider, and will hopefully help you decide which is best for your needs.
Comfort
Both synthetic and leather saddles offer good comfort. Like any other type of product, there are well made saddles, and poorly made saddles. The material used has little to do with this factor. Whichever material you choose, try the saddle and make sure that it fits both you and your horse.
Weight
Synthetic saddles are far lighter than leather saddles. This can be a real advantage if you enjoy long hacks or are interested in endurance riding. It does not seem to make any difference when jumping or doing dressage.
Appearance
Leather saddles are usually better looking than synthetic saddles. Many synthetics just don't look "real" and are unattractive. If you are looking to show, you will need to consider which would look better in the show ring. On the other hand, synthetics offer an unusual range of colors and styles that leather saddles do not offer. If you are a pleasure rider, you might enjoy having the option of having a saddle with colored accents, or different textures.
Wear and Tear
Leather is highly durable, and holds up very well to long-term use. Unfortunately, not all synthetics can say the same. Often regular use will scuff the material, which cannot easily be brought back to its original shine. The holes in the billets and the Stirrup Leathers will stretch and may eventually tear. Leather will also show wear and tear, but if well maintained, it will last longer and suffer less damage overall.
Cleaning
One nice thing about synthetics is that they are easy to clean. Often a sponge and a bucket of water will do the job. Some can even be hosed off. Leather takes a lot more work to clean. You will need Saddle Soap and leather conditioner. To keep you leather at its best, it should be cleaned at least once a week.
Maintenance
It is easier to repair a Leather Saddle than a synthetic one. Often synthetic saddles are designed in such a way as to make them impossible to fix, should they become broken. Leather saddles are usually repairable, unless the inner structure of the tree is broken.
Longevity
Generally leather saddles will last longer than synthetics. It is not unusual to find a leather saddle that is over 50 years old and is still in perfectly serviceable condition. Synthetics loose their charm within 10 years.
Sound
This may seem odd, but you will want to consider the sound that your saddle may make. Leather saddles tend to squeak when they are brand new. Over time they work in, and become quiet. Synthetics tend to have the opposite problem. Many synthetics will become squeaky over time, often because parts loosen, or the material becomes worn.
Price
Synthetics are generally far less expensive than leather saddles. If you are only looking for something to ride for pleasure and are not likely to put hard use into your saddle, you might find that the cheaper price outweighs the benefits of leather.
About the Author
Lydia K Kelly is a writer for HorseClicks, classifieds of
thoroughbred horses sale
,
used trailers for sale
,
used saddles for sale
, and she is a featured author at
www.ArticleKing.com
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