Some saddles do not fit within the traditional categories of English or Western. These specialty saddles have unique features all their own.

Aussie Saddles

Australian saddles, also known as Australian Stock saddles or Aussie saddles, look more like English saddles but with some key Western saddle features added to enhance riding enjoyment. An Aussie saddle is designed for comfort and security on long, hard rides in rough terrains (see the movie “The Man from Snowy River” for a good example of the security available with an Australian saddle). Lighter than a Western Saddle but more secure than an English saddle, the popularity of Aussie saddles for pleasure and trail riding is growing.

Bareback Pads

Bareback pads, also known as bareback saddles, are an alternative to bareback riding. They are usually made of padded materials that offer grip to the rider’s seat and legs and are equipped with a girth. In addition to helping keep the rider clean, this padded seat also provides additional comfort for both horse and rider. It is important to note that a bareback saddle is not a true saddle; they are not built on a tree like other saddles, which makes them less stable than a true saddle. For this reason, bareback pads should only be used by very experienced riders.

Pack Saddles

Pack saddles secure to the back of a horse or mule and are rigged to accommodate pack bags or other gear for transport. They resemble a rack and are built to conform to the shape of your horse’s or mule’s’ back. Pack saddles are specifically engineered to assure that the weight of items being carried does not rest on the animal’s spine; they also provide good ventilation. A saddle blanket or saddle pad should always be used under your Pack saddle to help cushion the weight being carried.

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