How to Choose the Correct Western Saddle Seat Size

Differences?
There are a number of measurements in addition to seat size that impacts the fit of a western saddle. These include
Seat depth Some saddles have deep seats designed to keep you in place during extreme activity and others have shallower seats to allow for more movement Seat slope The seat angles from the handhold back towards the cantle and the slope can range from relatively flat to steep Cantle slope The cantle can be high and straight or have a slope that is mild or steep Cantle dish The cantle can be flat or have a recess or dish on the front side that can be an inch or more indepth Fork style Fork styles can range from wide swells to slick fork saddles with barely any swell.
Fork angle Forks can be straight or angle away from the rider.
Each of these features can affect the way a saddle fits a rider. Unfortunately none of these other measurements are standardized or published in a saddles measurements. So when shopping for a western saddle the only way to determine fit is to sit in each saddle. Only then will you know if the saddle is a good fit for you.
The Treeless Saddle
Saddle trees are a common component of many horse saddles. This solid rigid structure is the piece around which the leather and padding of the saddle are built. The tree is made so it conforms to the horses back and the riders seat. Saddle trees were originally made of wood but today they can be made of materials such as fiberglass combined with metal plastic or even still with some wood in their construction. The leather of the saddle is attached to the tree with staples or small nails. A treeless saddle however does not have this solid structure on which the rest of the saddle is built.
What Is a Treeless Saddle?
A treeless saddle is a type of horse saddle without a solid internal tree the stiff inner foundation of the saddle made from materials like wood or hard plastic.
Treeless styles are lighter options that allow the rider to sit closer to the horses back but they may also be less secure than those with saddle trees and are more likely to cause pain for the horse or rider if not fitted carefully.
Treeless saddles come in Western English and trail styles. These types of saddles tend to be more substantial than