Is there a huge difference between a 15" and a 16" barrel saddle?

Question

I have a 14" barrel saddle right now, but the seat is too small for me. I need to move up to a larger seat. I'm thinking I need probably a 15", because the 14" I have now is just a little too small. I found a person online that has a 16" barrel saddle she wants to sell for a 14" barrel saddle (which I have). Is that a huge difference from a 15", which I think I need?

Answer 1

if your a small person size 15 should be good. but it also has to fit the horse my saddle is 15 and my horse is 16hh.

Answer 2

Yes there is.  I have one of each and I vastly perfer the 15" saddle.  The other just seems to have too much extra room.  I don't think you will be happy with a 16" saddle if you really fit a 15".

BTW - I'm 5'6" 160 lbs.

Answer 3

i need a 15 but i have a 16 and i have some room in it to grow so i would get the 16

Answer 4

I agree with the people who say 15". A 16" will be too big. & Then if you out grow it you can always up grade. I am a 15 1/2", I weight 127lbs.

Answer 5

When you're turning around barrels, you really don't want to slop around in your saddle.  You want to stay put so you don't come out.  

There's a LOT of difference in sizes, especially seeing how you can still fit in your 14" saddle.  

I'd hold out and wait until she can either buy your 14" saddle or find somebody who can trade you for a 15" barrel saddle.  Also keep in mind who made your saddle and who made the other saddle.

Answer 6

I have a 15 right now and I just moved up from a 14 i almost wish i went with the 16 so i say i'd go with the 16 saddle. you want it to fit comfortably and a little bit of a large saddle might fit better

Answer 7

there is quite a bit of difference but it depends on the brand too.  Some people like a 15 inch in one make and a 16 inch in another.

Answer 8

If you barrel race there is a difference. If you want more room to move about then a 16" but for barrels I would prefer the 15 just because barrel horses have so much power in the back end they tend to make your body move within the saddle. So if you want a little more support going around the barrels get the 15".

Good luck

Answer 9

I would go for 15".  The 16" saddle will be too large for you.  You will find you have more room that is needed; therefore a harder time with correct seat.

Answer 10

I am 5' 11" , 195 lbs and a 16 inch saddle fits me just right. I would recommend that you find someone you know that has a 16 inch saddle and sit in it. See how you fit it. I would say that unless you are around my size you should go with a 15 inch. When barrel racing weight is a factor and a 16 inch saddle will weigh more than a 15, so you want the saddle that fits you the best.