The Durability & Longevity of English Horse Saddle Leather

When you are ready to buy a saddle from the English category, you must define the material you desire. Likely to say, most buyers go for leather horse saddles that are promising for English riding discipline. Thus, you must refer to the most suitable for your saddle type and then make the final purchase.

Here, in this blog, we are going to discuss the durability & longevity of English saddles that are made of leather. More so, it will help riders understand the difference between synthetic and leather-quality English saddles.

See Also: Leather Saddle & Synthetic Saddle: What to Choose?

The uniqueness of English Saddles (Leather)

English horse saddles have been around for centuries and are famous for their durability and longevity. The secret to their longevity lies in the leather used to make them. English horse saddle leather is a premium quality leather popular for its durability. In addition, it provides flexibility and resistance to wear and tear during horseback riding.

Likewise, if you wish to go for English riding disciplines, ensure you have the perfect fitting saddle. The build and size of an English saddle of leather origin will make the rider comfortable for the rider and the horse.

The durability & Longevity of English Leather Saddles

The durability & Longevity of English saddle leather can be a reason for its unique tanning process. The leather is tanned using vegetable tanning, which is a natural process that uses plant extracts. Also, it may include the use of tannins to transform rawhide into leather.

On the other hand, vegetable tanning is a slow process, taking several weeks to complete. However, the end result is leather that is strong, flexible, and durable.

Read Also: The Impact of Rider’s Weight on English Horse Saddles

Tanning Process of Leather Saddles

The tanning process also gives the leather its natural color and texture. It is for this reason that English horse saddle leather is so distinctive. Unlike other leathers, English horse saddle leather has a rich, warm color that deepens with age. The leather also develops a patina over time, a natural sheen that develops as the leather is used and exposed to the elements.

Another factor that contributes to the longevity of English horse saddle leather is its thickness. The leather that’s in use to make English horse saddles is typically thicker than other types of leather. This thickness provides extra strength and durability, making the saddle less likely to tear or wear down over time.

Use of Oil in English Leather Saddles

English horse saddle leather is also treated with oils and waxes to make it water-resistant and protect it from the elements. These treatments help to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking, which can reduce its lifespan.

Many saddle makers are using high-quality oil and similar substance to add it to intensify the look. It will most likely affect the flexibility and make it more durable over the years.

Read More: Custom Horse Saddles: Are they Worth the Investment?

Attaining Durability & Longevity of Leather English Saddles

To maintain the durability & longevity of English saddle leather, it is important to take proper care of it. This includes regular cleaning and conditioning, as well as protecting it from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Also, it’s clear to most horse riders that leather saddles’ quality enhances over time. Thus, taking good care of your saddle will work wonders for the next 7 to 10 years. Moreover, it will provide comfortable, soothing, and easy rides for the rider and the horse.

Final Thoughts

The durability & longevity of English saddle leather are attributed to so many factors throughout its making. Generally, it can be the unique tanning process, thickness, and treatments. This type of leather is famous for its strength, flexibility, and resistance to wear and tear, making it an ideal material for horse saddles that will last for many years.

More so, taking proper care of leather English saddle will enhance better chances of horseback riding. Also, the riders can ensure that their saddles will remain in excellent condition for many years to come.

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