The 15.5″ 16.5″ Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle

 

When it comes to equestrian sports and activities, the quality of your saddle is paramount. Among the myriad options available, the 15.5″ 16.5″ Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle stands out as a premier choice for riders who own Arabian horses. This saddle, specifically designed to accommodate the unique conformation of Arabian horses, combines innovative materials with traditional craftsmanship to offer a product that meets the needs of both horse and rider. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the design, features, benefits, and overall performance of the Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle.

Design and Construction

The 15.5″ 16.5″ Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle is designed with the specific anatomical needs of Arabian horses in mind. Arabian horses, known for their distinctive body shape which includes a broad back, shorter spine, and higher tail carriage, require a saddle that accommodates these unique characteristics. The Big Horn saddle achieves this through a carefully contoured tree that fits the Arabian horse’s back snugly, ensuring even weight distribution and minimizing pressure points.

The saddle tree is the foundation of any saddle, and Big Horn uses a high-quality Ralide Arabian tree for this model. Ralide is a durable and lightweight synthetic material that offers strength without the added weight of traditional wooden trees. This contributes to the overall lightness of the saddle, making it easier for riders to handle and reducing the load on the horse.

Materials and Durability

One of the standout features of the Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle is its use of advanced synthetic materials. The saddle’s synthetic leather is not only highly durable but also resistant to the wear and tear that typically comes with regular riding. Unlike natural leather, synthetic leather requires minimal maintenance; it does not crack or dry out, and it is easy to clean with just soap and water.

The saddle’s fenders and skirts are made from Cordura, a high-performance fabric known for its resistance to abrasions, tears, and scuffs. Cordura is also significantly lighter than leather, further contributing to the saddle’s overall lightness. This makes the Big Horn saddle an excellent choice for endurance riding, where the combination of durability and light weight is crucial.

Comfort and Fit

For the rider, comfort is paramount, and the Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle does not disappoint. The seat is well-padded with memory foam, providing superior comfort even during long rides. The saddle comes in two seat sizes, 15.5″ and 16.5″, ensuring a good fit for riders of different sizes. The seat is designed to offer optimal support and balance, promoting a correct riding posture and reducing fatigue.

For the horse, the saddle’s design ensures maximum comfort. The Arabian tree, as mentioned earlier, is shaped to fit the contours of an Arabian horse’s back perfectly. This helps in distributing the rider’s weight evenly across the horse’s back, preventing sore spots and discomfort. Additionally, the saddle features full-quarter horse bars that further enhance the fit and stability of the saddle on the horse.

Versatility and Performance

The Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle is incredibly versatile, suitable for a range of equestrian activities including trail riding, endurance riding, and general pleasure riding. Its lightweight construction makes it particularly advantageous for endurance riders who spend extended periods in the saddle and need to minimize the weight carried by their horse.

The saddle’s synthetic materials make it weather-resistant, an important feature for riders who often find themselves in unpredictable weather conditions. Unlike traditional leather saddles, the Big Horn saddle can withstand rain and moisture without getting damaged or requiring extensive care afterward. This makes it a reliable choice for outdoor and trail riding.

Ease of Maintenance

One of the significant advantages of synthetic saddles over traditional leather saddles is the ease of maintenance. The Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle exemplifies this benefit. The synthetic leather can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat, and it doesn’t require the regular conditioning that leather saddles do. This ease of care ensures that the saddle remains in good condition for longer periods, with minimal effort from the rider.

Aesthetic Appeal

While functionality and comfort are paramount, the aesthetic appeal of a saddle also plays a role in a rider’s choice. The Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle boasts a sleek and modern look, with clean lines and a professional finish. Available in various color options, riders can choose a saddle that matches their personal style and complements their horse’s appearance.

Accessories and Customization

The Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle comes with several accessories and options for customization. It includes multiple rings and ties for attaching saddle bags, breast collars, and other gear, making it a practical choice for long rides and trail excursions. The saddle also features adjustable stirrups, allowing riders to find the perfect length for their comfort and riding style.

Cost-Effectiveness

Considering its high-quality materials, advanced design, and the comfort it offers both horse and rider, the Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle is also cost-effective. While synthetic saddles are generally more affordable than their leather counterparts, this saddle offers exceptional value for its price. Riders get the benefits of a lightweight, durable, and low-maintenance saddle without the higher cost associated with premium leather saddles.

User Feedback and Reviews

Riders who have used the Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle consistently praise its comfort, fit, and durability. Many users highlight the saddle’s excellent fit on their Arabian horses and appreciate the reduction in pressure points and discomfort for their horses. Riders also commend the saddle’s lightweight construction, which makes it easier to handle and reduces fatigue during long rides.

The positive feedback extends to the saddle’s durability, with users noting that the synthetic materials hold up well under regular use and in various weather conditions. The ease of maintenance is another commonly mentioned benefit, with riders appreciating the low effort required to keep the saddle in good condition.

The 15.5″ 16.5″ Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle is a standout choice for riders of Arabian horses. Its thoughtful design, which takes into account the unique conformation of Arabian horses, ensures a comfortable and secure fit. The use of advanced synthetic materials provides durability and ease of maintenance, while the saddle’s lightweight construction benefits both horse and rider, particularly in endurance and trail riding scenarios.

Overall, the Big Horn Synthetic Arabian Saddle offers an excellent balance of comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Its cost-effectiveness, combined with positive user feedback, makes it a highly recommended option for equestrians looking for a reliable and high-performance saddle for their Arabian horses. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a beginner, this saddle promises to enhance your riding experience and provide lasting value.