[BonnieM]

I need to buy a saddle for my 14.1 Arabian mare. It is overwhelming.... what is really needed? When a saddle is labeled "Arabian" it is somewhat more expensive than those with semi quarter horse bars or quarter horse bars. Is the Arabian tree necessary? How about flex-trees? Are they worth the extra?

I know that I need the saddle to be shorter in length, and to have rounded skirts.

Any advice would be hugely appreciated!!

BonnieM and little Snickers

[Megs]

i have an arabian, and i just bought a plain old 2nd hadn western saddle for her, nothing fancy or any "arabian tree", bought my english saddle 2nd hand as well, just a decent saddle nothing special.

[Sandra-A1]

Finding a saddle to fit your Arabian is not that hard, or big a deal....yes if the tack has the word Arabian being used to advertise it expect to pay more for it. I guess they figure all Arabian owners are wealthy...
You do not have to buy a saddle that is advertised as an Arabian saddle. Most of the Arabian western saddles advertised are the ones with round skirts and if your going to be showing your Arab and want to keep up with the current style you will be wanting to look for a western saddle with square skirts not the rounded ones...those went out of style a good while ago.
The following information might be of some help:

Outfitting Your Arabian
Arabian horses require the same kinds of saddles, bridles and stable halters as other breeds. However, most Arabians require slightly different sizes.

Arabians usually need western bridles that are smaller in the cheek and brow areas. A cob size English bridle (the smallest size made for horses) fits most Arabians. Breast collars made for Arabians usually fit better than those designed for larger, more broad-chested breeds such as Quarter Horses. If used, a martingale designed for Arabians fits best because it accommodates the breed's higher neck set and head carriage.

Because Arabians usually have more refined heads with smaller muzzles than other breeds, they also need smaller bits. The typical Arabian bit is size 4 3/4 (4 3/4 inches across). Horses with narrower jaws (from side to side, where the bit lies in the mouth) may need a 4 1/2. Arabians with wider mouths may take a standard horse size bit (5 inches).

Retail and mail-order tack stores often sell tack specifically designed to fit Arabian horses. However, some standard horse equipment also may fit. For example, western saddle blankets and pads that are 30 inches x 30 inches will fit most Arabians. Pads measuring 29" down the back may fit even better. A 30-inch western cinch usually fits an Arabian, and an English girth of 44 to 46-inches should fit the average Arabian (girth sizes start at 38 inches).

Most Arabians are wide (very round) in the barrel. The "well-sprung" ribs which contribute to the Arabians exceptional lung capacity and stamina result in wider backs. Because of this, "Arab" saddle trees (the underlying structures of saddles) are wider than standard saddle trees. A wide tree also prevents the saddle from rubbing low and/or wide withers.

Arabians usually have short backs, which help them carry heavier weights than longer-backed horses. Because the Arabian's back is shorter, the western saddle's skirt should not be more than 27 inches long (measured down the horse's back). The shorter skirt prevents chafing as the hind legs move forward. There are a variety of English saddles, depending upon the style of riding. Most riders use dressage, hunt seat (jumping), or "all-purpose" English saddles (designed for both the flat and jumping) for casual pleasure riding. Lightweight saddles designed for endurance riding are also popular for competition and trail riding. In English Pleasure classes at Arabian shows, cutback saddles are used. Riders in Show Hack classes use dressage saddles, and hunters and jumpers use hunt saddles.

To learn which style of tack is best for your horse and how to fit it, observe what others use and ask experienced Arabian owners for guidance. Tack store employees can also help you find the proper fit for your Arabian. The sizes suggested here are general guidelines. Individual Arabians vary, and all tack should be chosen to provide the most comfort to the specific horse.

Also important, if possible, is to take your horse along with you when determining what type of saddle you want. Arabians have short, short backs and need shorter "bars" in the tree construction. If you can't take your horse along, find out what the tack shop requires for you to be able to try out several different saddles of different tree construction to find the one that best fits your horses back. Arabians are not just short backed but also broad across the back and an important fit is crucial.

[BonnieM]

Thank you! That is great information.

This is probably why the old saddle I have now fits her OK... it is a 14" --- short length, but I don't know what bars it has. It does not have the rear cinch which is why I want to get a different one. Thanks.

Are the flex trees worth the $?

BonnieM