What are the differences between a cutting saddle and a reining saddle?

Question

main differences or minor differences.

i'm looking at these 3 saddles, for reining: (they all have a "view larger image" under first description)

http://www.west20.com/html/crates/cr_2221.php

http://www.west20.com/html/crates/cr_2222.php

http://www.west20.com/html/crates/cr_261.php#

i'm strongly considering buying a new saddle, but i'm definitely not running out to buy one this minute. i just started reining, and i'll be seriously reining this fall. thing is though, i know i want to go cattle work someday, especially cutting. i know some people do reining in cutting saddles, but what about cutting in reining saddles? i can't see the big difference. so what is it? and while we're at it, what do you think of these 3 saddles? best one for a beginning reiner (yet one that will still be a good saddle once i advance)? could any of these saddles double as a cutting saddle? thanks!

i like 261 the best, but why is it a "basic starter reining saddle"??

Answer 1

Ok, I'll try to explain the differences:



Reining saddle: Short, flat horn so you can easily move your one-rein hand from left to right. Shallow seat (usually not suede but rather a smooth leather finish). Fenders are cut out for maximum feeling with your legs.



Cutting Saddle: Tall, skinny horn so you can grip with your hand. Deeper seat for maximum seat.



You can do reining in a cutting saddle and cutting in a reining saddle but it's VERY difficult as your hand is getting blocked by the cutting saddle horn, ect. Most multi-discipline event riders I've worked with have had a reining saddle and a cutting saddle separate for each event. I would start off with a reining saddle if I were in your position since you're getting serious about it, then look into a cutting saddle later if you decide to pursue that as well.



I like the first option you have listed - looks like a nice saddle. 261 is nice, but it is a starter saddle (basically no bling, no fancy stuff or extras, will be cheaper.



Good luck!

Answer 2

Reining Saddle

Answer 3

Cutting Saddle

Answer 4

Samurai gave you a great answer... I'll save time and second her answer, and add that barrel saddles are typically a LOT lighter weight than a roping saddle, part of that is the job. A barrel racer needs speed, thus a light saddle. The roper needs balance and strength... a calf puts a lot of pressure on that saddle. So, in your shopping I'd stick with looking at the barrell saddles. I prefer to stick with a full leather saddle. You probably already know this... fitting a western saddle to your horse is done the same way you fit an English saddle. :-)

Answer 5

I'm not sure why it's called the basic starter reining saddle but I do like it the best too. Here's a link to a ton of cutting saddles:



http://www.google.com/images?hl=en&source=imghp&q=cutting+saddle&gbv=2&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=



It looks to me like the reining saddles have deeper seats. I'm sure all saddles can be used as cutting saddles though. Couldn't tell ya for sure though. =/ Hope this helps! (some) =)

-Fresh Paint-