Saddlebags
When we first set off on our big adventure on horseback from Mongolia to Germany, our packing was absolutely appalling. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much good information available, and we had to learn the hard way.
By day three in Kazakhstan, we had already lost a horse because our poorly secured, oversized bags ripped apart when the horse spooked at a tumbling weed. In Uzbekistan, we rode with backpacks, throwing off our balance completely. By the time we reached Turkey, our horses were suffering from spine rubs caused by a back roll resting directly on their backs.
After all these failures, we finally started making our own saddle bags in Bulgaria for the last leg of our journey to Germany. Through trial and error, we developed a system that works, and now we want to share our knowledge with you.
What to Consider When It Comes to Saddle Bags and Packing
Packing saddle bags requires careful planning to ensure your horse’s comfort and safety. Here are some key considerations:
Weight Distribution: Balance the load evenly between left and right, and front to back, so your horse can walk, trot, and canter in a balanced way.
Spine Clearance: Bags should never rest directly on the horse’s spine, as this can cause discomfort or injury.
Stabilization: Use a twin or Y-girth to stabilize the saddle, allowing for dynamic movement without shifting or rubbing.
Appropriate Size: Choose bags that are not too large to prevent interference with the horse’s natural movement.
Built-In Breaking Points: Bags should have breaking points so that, if they get caught on something, they break away rather than endangering the horse.
Freedom of Movement: Avoid tying the bags tightly to the girth to ensure they move naturally with the horse.
Proper packing is essential for a safe, enjoyable ride for both horse and rider.
Modifying Saddle Bags for a Long Ride
If you already own saddle bags and cannot invest in new ones, here are some tips to make them more suitable for a long ride:
Positioning: Secure the bags over the saddle seat and position most of the weight directly under the rider’s seat. This ensures the load is distributed evenly through the saddle tree, keeping the weight within the saddle’s support area the only place where you can place weight on the horses back.
Stabilization: Prevent bags from shifting by avoiding ties to the girth. Instead, secure them with a wide strap over the seat, a tight strap around the cantle, and a third strap joining the top rear corners. This setup keeps the bags stable without restricting the horse’s movement.
Size and Weight: Make sure the bags are not too large or overpacked. Excessive size or weight can interfere with your horse’s natural movement and comfort.
With these modifications, even your existing saddle bags can be adapted for a more successful and comfortable long ride.
What Makes Our Saddle Bags So Durable
Our saddle bags are designed with durability, practicality, and your horse’s comfort in mind. Here’s why they stand out:
Material: We use 1000D Cordura, an exceptionally strong, waterproof, and rip-resistant material, capable of withstanding the toughest conditions.
Solid Chassis: Built on a heavy-duty nylon frame, our bags maintain their shape and integrity, even during vigorous movement.
Optimal Size: At 10 liters each, our bags are large enough for essentials yet small enough to avoid overloading and strain.
Waterproof Inner Liners: Every bag includes a submersible inner liner, ensuring your gear stays 100% dry no matter the conditions.
Built for Strength: Like a plastic shopping bag that can carry heavy cans but tears when swung, our bags are built stronger than necessary and designed to carry less than their maximum capacity for longevity and performance.
No Leather: We avoid leather, which is heavier and requires regular maintenance, opting for lightweight, durable materials instead.
These thoughtful details ensure our bags meet the demands of any rider and any trail.
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Whether you are preparing for a long-distance horseback ride or simply seeking reliable saddle bags for your next trail adventure, following the tips above will help ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
If you have any questions about our durable, rider-tested saddle bags, do not hesitate to get in touch. We are here to support you and help you succeed on your journey.
We believe every rider deserves a safe, comfortable journey—and we are here to help you make it happen!
