CrookedPostQH
Posted : 11/12/2009 1:18:27 PM
Hi Meg
The first link below has loads of information that may be helpful to you in selecting a saddle. The second is good, too, and the linked page explains the saddle types quite well.
The saddle is the single most important piece of equipment so be sure it fits your horse. You never want one that will make them sore. That said, the bars on a saddle reflect how a saddle will fit horses with higher withered narrow backs to flatter wide backs - basically its how much the tree spreads outward beneath the pommel and the angle of it laying on the back. If it is too steep it will pinch, too wide and it will not hold the saddle off of the spine. Full Quarter Horse Bars are the widest and will fit the old "bulldog" body type where withers are well hidden by muscle creating a wide rounder back. There are special trees for drafts and arabians and gaited horses.
http://www.western-saddle-guide.com/types-of-saddles.html http://www.mcpcustomleather.com/macstore/pc/viewcontent.asp?idpage=11 The third site page has info on fitting a horse with a saddle, parts of the saddle, templates to size a saddle or horse's back, and how to spot a low quality sadde. A low quality saddle can harm your horse's back and quite often the wooden tree that is the strength of a saddle can warp and twist making it unusable. You have most likely heard the saying - You get what you pay for. So, if one is on a budget, it is always better to buy a high quality used saddle than to purchase a new lower quality saddle. Your horse will thank you.
http://www.horsesaddleshop.com/western-saddle-guide.html Google any saddle brand and you will usually find exerts from other forums, etc. where 
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articular brand is praised or exposed for poor quality workmanship! This will seem overwhelming at first, but in the long run you will be better off for the knowledge. When I did searches of saddle brands, I actually created a personal list of saddles brands I forever wish to avoid. Most based on quality, some on "bar" fit for my horse, and the rest on riding discipline. Not to scare you, but expect to pay around $1000 on a high quality used saddle. If you do your homework, and learn to recognize the different quality brands it is possilbe to find a great deal on a saddle for less. Try starting at local saddle makers and tack shops that take trade-ins or sell on consignment, research what the saddle sold for new and estimate a fair price for it in its current condition. Local people will most likely allow you to try the fit on your horse, too.
Have fun and good luck.