[tealamutt]

I finally have a horse again after a 3 year hiatus and need saddle suggestions. We live in Central America right near the beach. Leather is out, so looking for synthetic saddles that are super lightweight and would work for beach and trail riding. Right now I just ride him bareback but we will need something with just a little more security as we start doing beach rides and longer trail rides with frequent encounters with loose horses and cattle. I was a dressage and hunter jumper rider in the past so those are the only two kinds of saddles I know about!

 

[lynabago]

I bought my husband and I synthetic western saddles from TN Saddlery on ebay about 4 months ago. I have been dealing with tennis elbow for over a year now so lifting a heavy saddle up onto my horse was difficult. My saddle is only about 20 pounds and was a return so I got it for $300. My husbands saddle was $350 it weighs a couple pounds more, but is still pretty light. They are both REALLY comfortable and seem to be very durable. The great thing about TN Saddlery is their return policy; they will take the saddle back even if its been on a horse!

 

[Kato]

A synthetic aussie saddle might work. I have a Wintec aussie and I love it. It is very lightweight but has been very durable. It is fitted with english irons & webbers instead of leathers. I use and dressage pad and girth with it. It has a super secure seat with a great feel of the horse. I clean my saddle by hosing it off.