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Choosing the Best Western Saddle Blanket
Western saddle blankets are an important piece of tack. They keep your horse’s back comfortable while you ride and they reflect your personal style when you’re in the ring. Here are some things to consider when you are shopping for saddle blankets:
- Thickness: Make sure the saddle blankets you buy are at least ⅞ inches to 1 inch thick. The thickness of the blanket will determine how much cushion your horse will have on their back. The thick western saddle blankets are usually much more comfortable for your horse.
- Material and fit: Most western saddle blankets are made from wool, but some have extra material like foam padding or fleece to add cushion and even the pressure being put on your horse's back. Make sure you select a blanket that is designed for your horse's specific needs. For example, if they have a sensitive back, get them saddle blankets that include foam to lessen the stress on their back.
- Color: The color of the saddle blankets you choose is important to your personal style, but it can also make you look more put together in the show ring. Western show saddle blankets should match the color of your other show attire to help you get the attention of the judge. Keep this in mind when you are deciding what kind of western show saddle blankets you want to buy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Western Saddle Blankets
What is a Western saddle blanket?
A Western saddle blanket is a type of padding you put between the horse's back and the saddle. Saddle blankets protect the horse's back from the pressure of the saddle and protect the saddle from dirt and sweat.
Many top-quality Western Saddle Blankets are hand woven of 100% premium wool. Wool provides excellent anti-slip security, and its flexibility allows the blankets to naturally conform to your horse’s back. It is also moisture-wicking, so it helps to keep your horse dry and cool. Other materials commonly used to make Western Saddle Blankets are felt, fleece, wool blends, and acrylic, both of which offer durability, and easy care, and are an economical choice for everyday riding.
What is a Navajo saddle blanket?
Navajo saddle blankets are saddle blankets created by the Navajo Native Americans. Today many western riders have saddle blankets that are inspired by Navajo patterns on them but they are not truly Navajo blankets.