As the name implies, a treeless saddle is an equestrian saddle style in which the seat is supported by no traditional, solid tree construction. Rather, it is made to use a variety of cushioning and support systems to disperse the rider’s weight across a wider region.
For riders who value a more natural riding experience and more intimate contact with their horse, treeless saddles are a popular option.
Table of Contents
The Benefits of Using Treeless Saddle:
For both the rider and the horse, there are many advantages to using a treeless saddle. Among these are:
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Improved Coziness:
Treeless saddles fit the horse’s back precisely, minimizing the chance of pain points and offering a personalized fit. Consequently, this improves the horse’s comfort level and makes riding more enjoyable for the rider.
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Better Sentiment and Interaction:
The lack of a stiff tree facilitates closer touch and a more responsive and intimate relationship between the rider and the horse. Clearer communication and more useful aids are made possible by the rider’s ability to perceive the horse’s subtle movements and cues.
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Adaptability and Mobility:
The horse may move more freely and comfortably in a more natural manner when wearing a treeless saddle. Performance may increase as a result, especially in fields requiring dexterity, flexibility, and balance.
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Adjustability:
For riders who own many horses or compete in various disciplines, treeless saddles are a versatile option because they are often made to fit a range of horse body shapes. Many times, a properly fitted treeless saddle can be used on several horses, reducing the need for multiple saddles.
Possible Issues with Using a Treeless saddle:
Despite the many benefits of treeless saddles, there are a few things to be cautious about:
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Distribution of Pressure:
Treeless saddles may not distribute pressure evenly, especially if they are ill-fitting or inadequately cushioned. Making ensuring the saddle fits the horse properly and that the right amount of padding and shims are used to maintain even weight distribution is crucial.
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Back Clearance:
It is crucial to make sure the horse has enough spinal clearance because the typical saddle’s stiff structure is absent. A horse may experience pain or perhaps suffer an injury from a saddle that is excessively thin or does not provide enough support for their spine. This issue can be resolved with proper fitting and competent advice.
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Protection and Steadiness:
When riding at faster speeds or over more difficult terrain, some riders may first feel less stable or secure on a treeless saddle than in a regular saddle. It is crucial to choose a saddle that provides the required stability and security for the demands of every rider. These issues can also be helped by appropriate training and good balance.
Fitting of Treeless Saddle:
Using a treeless saddle requires careful fitting. The following are important actions to do:
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Seat Pad and Adjusters:
Choose a saddle pad made especially for saddles without trees as a starting point. The pad should provide enough support, pressure distribution, and shock absorption. To have the right fit and balance, the pad may need to have shims put to it.
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Verify the Clearance:
Make certain that the saddle allows the horse’s spine enough room. To avoid any pressure or pain, there should be adequate room between the saddle and the horse’s back. Determining the appropriate clearance for each unique horse might be aided by speaking with saddle fitting experts.
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Positioning the Saddle:
On the horse’s back, the saddle needs to be properly adjusted. It should sit loosely and comfortably, without being too tight or compressed. Make sure the girth is secure but not too tight, and pay close attention to how the saddle sits on the horse’s shoulder.
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Speaking with Experts:
Seeking professional advice is always advised if you have any questions or concerns regarding the fitting process. Expert guidance and necessary changes can be given by saddle fitters or equestrian specialists skilled in treeless saddle fitting to guarantee the optimal fit for the horse and rider.
Upkeep and Attention for Treeless saddle:
The lifetime and functionality of a treeless saddle depend on proper upkeep and care. The following are some essential considerations:
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Sanitizing and Restoring:
Clean the saddle on a regular basis with water and a mild saddle soap. Because certain materials can need special handling, make sure you adhere to the manufacturer’s cleaning and conditioning instructions. The integrity and suppleness of the leather can be preserved by periodically conditioning the saddle.
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Holding:
The saddle should be kept out of direct sunlight in a cool, dry place. Steer clear of overly damp or humid circumstances as they can cause the saddle to get damaged or moldy. You can offer further protection by using a saddle cover.
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Routine Examinations:
Check the saddle periodically for indications of wear or injury. Inspect for any degradation or weakening in the billets, stitching, and other parts. Any problems should be resolved right away to avoid more harm or any safety risks.
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Replacing Components:
As soon as possible, any worn-out or damaged saddle parts should be replaced. This covers any parts that are essential to the integrity and safety of the saddle, such as girth straps and stirrup leathers.
FAQs
What would you use a treeless saddle?
Your neck, knee, and back pain has subsided. One saddle fit practically every horse’s back, which is another clear benefit of these saddles. Your horse benefits from an unmatched degree of mobility as a result. Tacking up is a breeze with these lightweight saddles.
Is treeless saddle good or bad?
Still, in terms of shielding the rider and horse against chronic back pain and injury, a well-fitting treed saddle is preferable to a treeless saddle. There are instances when seemingly ideal remedies in the short run turn out to have unsatisfactory long-term effects.
What is the difference between tree and tree less saddle?
Though lighter than saddle tree alternatives, treeless types are more prone to cause pain for the horse or rider if not fitted properly. They may also be less secure than saddle tree options. English, Western, and trail styles are available for treeless saddles.
What are the advantages of saddle?
Constriction: Your body is completely free from straps when wearing a saddle, from the waist up. Upper body layering clothing is simple to add or remove, allowing you to move freely and adjust to changing weather conditions.
Conclusion
Because of their flexibility, the Freeform treeless saddles can quickly adapt to the movements of the horse. The design of these saddles frees the horse’s shoulders from the restriction of a tree, allowing for complete and unrestricted extension.
