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Some say the finest horsemen in history were also the most natural…

The Cherokee Native Americans set what seems an unreachable bar in horsemanship.

But for the beginner? Are we ready for treeless saddles?

Riding with a treeless saddle is not the same as riding bareback  – that would be completely ludicrous. But is a similar level of horsemanship needed?

The tree is built to provide support, even pressure and comfort – for the horse and the rider.

A treeless saddle cannot offer these same benefits. Instead, it leaves the horse vulnerable to abnormal pressure points. The rider’s seat bone can dig into the horse, causing its back muscles to tighten.

Isn’t the tree there to help, where we lack the supreme ability the Native Americans had?

Perhaps not? Perhaps you ride your horse treeless? Even bareback? Does it work for you? Somebody please help me!

Karen”

And now hear what Lily has to say.

“Treeless saddles are an alternative to traditional saddles that lack a rigid tree, the structured frame typically made from wood or synthetic material. Without a tree, these saddles conform more closely to the horse’s back, potentially allowing for a more even distribution of the rider’s weight. This flexibility can offer a more comfortable fit for both horse and rider, especially for horses with unique back shapes or those difficult to fit with traditional saddles. Lily”

“One of the main benefits of treeless saddles is that they allow greater freedom of movement for the horse. Since there is no rigid frame, horses often experience less restriction around their shoulders and spine, which can enhance their performance and reduce discomfort. Riders also tend to feel closer to the horse’s movements, creating a stronger sense of connection and communication. Lily”

Treeless saddles are especially popular among riders who practice disciplines like trail riding or endurance, where comfort over long distances is key. They are also favored for horses recovering from back injuries or those with high withers, as the saddle can mold to their shape rather than pressing down unevenly. Lily”

“However, treeless saddles are not without challenges. The lack of a rigid structure can make them less stable, particularly for high-intensity sports like jumping or activities that require quick, precise movements. Proper padding is essential to prevent pressure points, and some horses may still require a custom-fit treeless saddle for optimal comfort. Additionally, they may not provide as much support for the rider, which could lead to less security in the seat for those used to traditional saddles. Lily”

“In summary, treeless saddles offer a flexible, close-contact alternative ideal for certain types of riding and specific horses. With careful selection and padding, they can be a great choice, though they may not replace traditional saddles in all riding disciplines. Lily”

Next up

Saddling a horse.

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Many don’t think their horse can get trapped in a 90-degree corner. Even though this is where 90% of horse injuries at pasture occur. It’s easy to miss paddock shapes, while obsessing over nutrition, or the early stages of hoof damage.

So I’m beginning a series of free simple tips. They’re all mercifully short. Just one of these might change your horseback life immeasurably.

If you have any simple tips to add along the way, I want to hear them. Please, please comment below!

And here’s what Karen has to say.

So why are the simplest tips often the most useful? Horseback riding tips are often the most valuable because they address foundational aspects of balance, communication, and safety—qualities that enhance every rider’s experience. Tips like “heels down,” “eyes up,” and “breathe” may seem basic, but they are essential for building solid riding habits that help both novice and experienced riders stay balanced and connected with their horses.

For example, “heels down” isn’t just about looking polished; it’s about anchoring your weight properly. When you drop your heels, you stabilize yourself in the saddle and lower your center of gravity, which provides a stronger and more secure seat. This simple adjustment not only improves control but also offers better shock absorption, making it easier to stay balanced through sudden movements.

Similarly, “eyes up” is about more than just awareness—it directs your body and, in turn, signals your horse. Where you look influences your posture, helping you naturally position yourself forward or sideways as needed. This allows for smooth transitions and helps keep your horse moving in the intended direction.

The reminder to “breathe” is another deceptively simple yet powerful tip. Horses are highly sensitive to their rider’s tension and emotions; when you breathe deeply and stay calm, your horse will pick up on it and likely mirror that calmness. This small action can help prevent nerves from escalating and make your horse feel more secure.

In essence, these simple tips work because they establish consistency in riding habits that allow the rider to focus more on connecting with the horse than on constantly correcting position or balance. By building on these foundational skills, riders can handle more complex maneuvers and situations with confidence. Simple as they may seem, these tips form the basis of successful and enjoyable horseback riding.

Next up

Is a nervous horse your fault?

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I have to say, when I see Pat Parelli, I see a master horseman. Every time I watch a new Parelli video, my jaw drops at the sheer control and understanding he has. But I was shocked to read this…

http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?t=224279

Apparently the Parellis claim they don’t need to wear helmets. Instead they deal with behavioural problems at the source. Well, my jaw dropped at this too.

Kids. If you’re reading this, always wear a helmet. Even if you’re lucky enough to ride a Parelli trained horse.

And now onto what Jack has to say.

“Wearing a helmet while horseback riding is crucial for ensuring the safety of both novice and experienced riders. Horses are large, powerful animals, and even the most well-trained horse can react unpredictably to various stimuli, such as loud noises, sudden movements, or unfamiliar surroundings. A fall from a horse can lead to severe injuries, particularly head injuries, which are among the most common and serious types of trauma sustained in equestrian sports. Jack”

“Love or hate the Parellis – but do wear a helmet. There designed to provide protection and comfort. They are made from lightweight materials and often incorporate advanced technology, such as impact-absorbing foam and ventilation systems. This combination not only protects the rider’s head but also helps maintain comfort during extended rides. Choosing a properly fitted helmet is essential; it should sit snugly on the head without being too tight and should not shift during movement. Jack”

“Many equestrian organizations and competitions require riders to wear helmets, emphasizing their importance in promoting safe riding practices. Wearing a helmet not only protects the rider but also sets a positive example for younger or less experienced riders. It instills the habit of prioritizing safety, fostering a culture where protective gear is a standard part of riding. Jack”

“While some riders may feel that wearing a helmet diminishes their experience or style, the risk of head injury far outweighs these concerns. Accidents can happen in an instant, and wearing a helmet can be the difference between a minor bump and a life-threatening injury. Jack”

“Love or hate the Parellis wear a helmet. In conclusion, wearing a helmet while horseback riding is essential for safety. It protects riders from serious head injuries and promotes a culture of safety within the equestrian community. Prioritizing helmet use ensures that horseback riding remains an enjoyable and safe activity for all. Jack”

Next up

What footwear should you wear?

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A horse is an intelligent animal. Head rocking is common equine behaviour in a stall. It’s to alleviate the boredom.

And whether a horse is barefoot or shod, zero movement can only result in a starved white line.

What I dislike most about stalls is that it’s real human intervention in the horse’s natural life.

The owner using horse shoes might say it’s because they ride on roads 90% of the time.

The owner using a bit might say it’s the only way to control their horse.

But the owner locking their horse in a stall 12+ hours a day can only say it’s for their own convenience.

Of course, the stall is sometimes our only option. But let’s always live and work around giving our horses as much time at pasture as possible.

Horse gentler, Ray Hunt, had a blissfully simple mantra for keeping horses. “Make the wrong things difficult and the right things easy”.

Why make the wrong things unavoidable?

And now onto Jeff

“In horse training, the principle of “make the wrong things difficult and the right things easy” is a highly effective approach for encouraging desired behaviors in horses. This technique helps horses understand what’s expected of them without the need for force, promoting a more cooperative and respectful partnership.”

“For instance, if a horse is crowding a handler’s space, a trainer might gently move the horse back, making it harder for the horse to stay in the unwanted position. Once the horse steps back, the handler can release pressure and reward the correct response, reinforcing the idea that standing at a respectful distance is the easier, more comfortable option. This creates a learning experience where the horse starts to associate good behavior with comfort and unwanted behavior with mild inconvenience or discomfort.”

“Similarly, when teaching a horse to load into a trailer, trainers often make standing outside of the trailer less comfortable—perhaps by adding gentle pressure—while rewarding every forward step toward the trailer. As the horse moves closer to the trailer, the trainer reduces the pressure and offers praise or a treat, making the correct behavior easy and the wrong one less pleasant. Over time, the horse learns that entering the trailer is the preferred choice.”

“This approach encourages horses to actively participate in learning rather than simply reacting out of fear or submission. By shaping behavior in a way that makes the “right” choices easy and the “wrong” choices less appealing, horses are more willing to follow guidance without feeling forced or stressed. This technique strengthens the bond between horse and rider or trainer, as it builds mutual trust and reinforces positive behaviors in a natural, low-stress way. Ultimately, it leads to a more willing and attentive partner in the horse. Jeff”

Next up

How to regain confidence after a fall.

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As a teenager, Roberts observed wild horses through binoculars. He noticed they spoke to each other using body language – a language he called ‘Equus’. When a horse lowered his head and made chewing motions, he was asking to be accepted into the herd. “Can we talk?” he seemed to say.

How lucky we are, this knowledge survived. Monty’s father, who told him “hurt the horse before the horse hurts you,” certainly hadn’t inspired this thinking. And when Monty first spoke out against his father’s methods, he was beaten with a stall chain.

But who took the right approach towards the horse? The father or the son? The father’s methods certainly broke the horse, but some would argue the horse’s spirit went with it. Lawrence Scanlan, author of The man who listens to horses wrote this…

‘As part of sacking out, one hind leg was tied up with ropes and connected to a rope collar around the horse’s chest. With the horse’s foot off the ground, bucking was impossible. More sacking ensued, and finally a saddle was put on. The end result may well have been a cooperative horse, but something precious, Monty Roberts came to believe, had been lost.’

You might think it cruel. You might not. But compare this to Monty’s methods, and you’ll probably think it unnecessary. Why work hard to break a horse’s spirit, when that spirit is ‘willingness’. Work with it.

In 1997, Monty Roberts met the manic Happy Go Lucky. He rubbed the horse’s head as he talked. Using a line, he encouraged the horse to power around the perimeter of where he stood. Eventually the horse calmed, ‘maybe this man isn’t so bad’. Before long, Happy Go Lucky lowered his head and made chewing motions.

In 15 minutes, Monty Roberts achieved more than traditional horse breaking methods could achieve in 6 weeks.

“Can we talk,” Happy Go Lucky seemed to say.

And now onto Otto.

“The phrase “breaking a horse’s spirit” is often misunderstood. Traditional “breaking” methods aim to train a horse by removing resistance, but they risk diminishing a horse’s natural curiosity and willingness. In contrast, modern approaches to horse training focus on maintaining and even nurturing a horse’s spirit and enthusiasm for learning.”

“When a horse’s spirit is “broken” through harsh or overly forceful methods, the horse may become compliant, but often at the cost of trust, connection, and self-confidence. Horses are naturally curious, social animals that thrive on positive interactions and learning experiences. Harsh training methods can instill fear and discourage the horse from thinking independently, resulting in a horse that may obey but lacks the willingness and enjoyment that make a true partnership with a human rewarding.”

“Why break a horse’s ‘willing’ spirit? Instead of breaking a horse’s spirit, training should aim to guide and develop it. Using positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency, trainers can build a strong foundation of trust and respect. When a horse understands and feels comfortable with what is being asked, they’re more likely to respond willingly and with enthusiasm. This approach keeps the horse’s spirit intact, fostering a more willing and responsive partner.”

“Keeping a horse’s spirit alive also leads to better long-term behavior and emotional health. A willing horse is less likely to develop anxiety-related issues or resistance over time. Additionally, it enhances the relationship between horse and rider, creating a bond built on respect rather than fear.”

“Ultimately, the goal of training should be to develop a horse that is not just obedient, but also engaged, trusting, and happy. Preserving a horse’s spirit makes for a safer, more cooperative, and enjoyable experience for both horse and human, creating a partnership that honors the horse’s natural intelligence and sensitivity. Otto”

Next up

How to work with a stubborn horse?

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