Roping Saddle

A roping saddle is designed for demanding use and maximum freedom of movement for the rider. In a well-designed roper, a rider can easily chase, rope, and dally a cow to the horn. To withstand this punishment, the saddle must have a particularly strong saddle tree and horn.

Typical features of a roping saddle include:

• Preferably, a wood saddle tree with a bullhide cover for maximum strength
• A low, rounded fork. This will keep down the leverage of the rope on both the horn and the horse, and not interfere with a swinging rope.
• A tall, thick horn with a horn wrap for dallying
• Full double rigging – both front cinch and flank cinch with the front cinch in the full position
• A deep, rough-out or suede seat for maximum grip
• A low cantle for an easier dismount
• Stirrups hung a bit more forward than usual to allow the rider to put their feet forward and brace against the stirrups when necessary.
• Deep, wide, roper style stirrups
• A rope strap for holding a lariat
• Heavier weight

Specialty roping saddles are designed specifically for roping and are most often used by those participating in roping events. For more general-purpose ranch work and riding, ranch-type saddles are a better choice. They’re built for comfort during long hours of riding, but also incorporate features that make them suitable for roping.

Billy Cook	McCall