The Components of a Western Roping Saddle

The Western roping saddle has numerous components. Each component serves an important purpose, some for function some for safety. If you are going to use a roping saddle, it's important to know the components in the event that you need to inspect the saddle or have it repair.

  1. The Saddletree Components

    • The saddletree is the foundation of the saddle. The saddletree consists of the bars, pommel, fork, horn and cantle. The bars are the component of the tree that sits along the sides of the horse's spine. The pommel, also known as the fork, gives shape to the front of the saddle. The fork along with the angle of the bars determines the height and width of the gullet. If the fit is not good, this will rub on the horse causing discomfort. The horn can be varied in thickness or height based on the rider's wishes. The cantle is the back of the saddle.

    The Rigging Components

    • The rigging components consist of the cinch, front rigging dee, quick-change buckle, hobble straps and the tie strap holder. The cinch is the strap that secures the saddle under the horse. The front rigging dee is a ring that the latigo goes through. The quick-change buckle is used to adjust the length of the stirrups. If you fall off of the horse, the hobble straps prevent the stirrups from turning over which is very important so you won't get caught in the stirrups. The tie-strap holder holds the excess length of the latigo.

    Distinguishing Features of a Roping Saddle

    • The main distinguishing features of a roping saddle are a low, rounded fork, low cantle and a unique, thick, tall horn. To withstand the demands of roping, these saddles are designed with a strong horn, tree and rigging. The rider needs freedom when roping. As a result, this saddle features a low front that reduces leverage against the horn and the horse's withers. The roping saddle has wide and deep stirrups, and a low cantle. The roping saddle also has a front and back cinch.

    Importance of Saddletree Material

    • It's important that the roping saddle is constructed from material that is not only strong, but also has some give so the rider can have flexibility while roping. Although varied materials are used for making saddles, a choice wood would be Ponderosa pine with one or two layers of wet bull-hide or rawhide stretched over it. The rawhide forms a tight covering over the saddle, which adds to the resiliency of the saddle.