A well-maintained saddle contributes to your comfort and safety while horseback riding. This article will help you maintain your saddle properly with simple steps and some useful tips, so be sure to read on!
Step 1: Inspect your saddle
Regularly perform a thorough inspection of your saddle. Look for signs of wear, such as small scratches or tears in the leather. Regular inspection can detect potential problems at an early stage, which can help extend the life of your saddle.
Step 2: Cleaning
Keeping your saddle clean is crucial. First, clean the saddle with a damp cloth or leather cleaning wipes to remove mud, sweat, and dirt residues.
Next, you can easily apply soap to the saddle with a wet sponge. Leather soap ensures that the leather becomes nice, flexible, and protected again. Avoid using too much water during cleaning, as leather absorbs water. This can result in drying out and may cause cracks in the leather.
After cleaning, allow the saddle to dry completely to prevent moisture build-up, which can damage the leather.
Step 3: Conditioning the leather
Conditioning the leather follows after the cleaning phase. The saddle's leather should be treated with a product that keeps it soft and supple to prevent drying out and cracking. At Emmers Equestrian, we have a wide range of leather conditioners such as: leather balms, leather sprays, and leather oil.
It is crucial to use the correct cleaning and maintenance products on your saddle. Opt for products that are specifically made for saddles.
Saddle maintenance tips
Invest in a good-quality saddle cover for protection against dirt and dust when the saddle is not in use. Stirrup covers can also help limit dirt on your saddle.
Avoid direct sunlight on the saddle. Sunlight can dry out and discolor the leather. Cold and moist spaces are also not suitable for your saddle, as moisture can cause mold to grow on the leather more quickly. Therefore, it is best to store saddles in a well-ventilated, dry space, away from direct light or heat sources. If that's not possible, it's advisable to take measures to control the humidity, such as using a dehumidifier or regularly airing out the space.
Make it a good habit to wipe your saddle with a dry cloth after every use to remove dust and sweat. Depending on how often you use the saddle, it may need to be cleaned more thoroughly on a weekly basis. Keep in mind that saddle maintenance can vary depending on the type and age of the leather. Therefore, it is always a good idea to read the manufacturer's care instructions or to ask for specific advice from one of our saddle specialists.
In addition to cleaning and conditioning the leather, you should regularly check the fit of the saddle. A poorly fitting saddle can cause discomfort for the horse and affect performance during riding. At Emmers Equestrian, we therefore offer a saddle fitting service. It is advisable to have your saddle checked at least once a year by a professional saddler. They can detect potential problems early and provide specialized care and repairs. We have our own workshop and repair service.
By following these steps and tips, you can extend the life of your saddle and ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience. So be sure to follow our tips and let your saddle shine like new, good luck! If you have any questions, our saddle experts at the store are happy to help or send your questions via email to hello@emmers.eu.
