What is one way to prepare your saddle for a ride?

Preparing your saddle for a ride by ensuring it is clean and well-fitted is essential for both the comfort of the horse and the effectiveness of the saddle when riding. A clean saddle helps to prevent irritation and discomfort on the horse's back, which can arise from dirt, dust, or sweat accumulating on the saddle's surface.

A well-fitted saddle is crucial as it ensures proper weight distribution and support, preventing any unnecessary pressure points that could cause pain or injury to the horse. If a saddle does not fit well, it could affect the horse’s gait and overall performance.

While decorative elements might be visually appealing, their presence does not contribute to the functional performance of the saddle. Adjusting weight for balance might be relevant in certain contexts, such as in performance riding, but for general preparation, cleanliness and fit take precedence. Likewise, storing the saddle in a cool place is more about maintenance than preparing it for riding.