(photo taken from tannertime.com)

Barrel racing saddles are specifically designed to give horse and rider the best chance possible at completing a barrel pattern in the fastest time possible. Barrel saddles are usually light, so the horse isn't racing with extra, unnecessary weight.

The swells are usually prominent, so the rider can brace their legs against them going round the barrels. The horn is small and curved forward, so the rider can grab hold and use as a balance aid around the sharp turns.

Some barrel saddles have a higher cantle, which helps the rider sit more securely during the sharp turns and fast sprints. Along those lines, barrel saddles typically have rough out jockeys and fenders to help keep the rider balanced in the seat.

(picture taken from tannertime.com)

(picture taken from candlsaddles.com)

As you've probably guessed, the barrel saddle is designed to help the rider stay secure in the saddle and gives them aids to maintain balance during a race.

(photo taken from nationalwestern.com)

Not only are barrel saddles practical, they're also stylish and eye catching. Barrel racers love the bling, so the majority of barrel racing tack (saddles included) is decked out with rhinestones, tooling, different colors, and different fabrics used on the seat.

(photo taken from Pinterest)

Barrel saddles also make great trail/pleasure riding saddles for the ladies due to the nice deep seat and the light weight!

"To ride a horse is to ride the sky." --Author Unknown

~ Saddle Up