Black Country Saddles Home   •   Materials   •   Options   •   Features   •   Finishes

'Trees
We use only the best quality British wood laminated Spring Trees, mostly manufactured by Lariot and Lightwood.

Each crafted to its own specification, depending on its requirements for the design of saddle for which it is destined.

Most trees come with a full 10 year guarantee against general riding conditions and conform to the latest British Standard BS6635.*

*this is only currently available on all Lariot trees, please refer to swing ticket when purchasing a saddle.

Wool
All our panels are hand flocked with 100% British Wool, we have explored the benefits that using a natural flock has over synthetic materials such as the more commonly used polypropylene or latex moulded panels.

  • Wool moulds to the horses back with greater ease.
  • Wool absorbs up to 30% of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet, helping to reduce the heat and moisture created from the horses back, where synthetic fibres will actually reflect the heat.
  • Wool provides a softer more shock absorbing filling, with a minimal compression rate over time.
  • Wool can also reduce friction and therefore soreness.

Always choose a wool flocked panel for better all round results.

Leather
We use and are constantly sourcing only the finest high-grade English leather..
Tanning The hides that are selected as ‘raw hides’ have fewer blemishes and are carefully chosen for quality.

They are then traditionally tanned, a process which can take up to 12 weeks, but necessary to produce its supple yet strong properties.

Dyeing A refining process in which the hides require tumbling and dyeing in large drums.
Dressing The leather is then finished by reputable British curriers. Along with the latest technology, combinations of natural oils and greases are used to produce a number of different finishes.

Remember leather is a natural product, fine scars, wrinkles and sometimes subtle variations in shading may remain visible but distinguish it as the genuine article.