A quality saddle is more than just tack, it’s an investment in comfort, performance, and your horse’s wellbeing. Farrington saddles are handcrafted from premium leather and designed to improve with age, becoming softer and more comfortable over time.
Because leather is a natural, porous material, regular care is essential. With the right leather saddle maintenance routine, your saddle can last for decades while remaining safe, supple, and beautiful.
Follow this practical guide to caring for your Farrington saddle and keeping it in peak condition.
1. The Post-Ride Wipe Down (After Every Ride)
Salt from sweat, arena dust, and grime are the biggest enemies of leather saddles.
The routine:
After each ride, use a slightly damp (not wet) sponge or soft cloth to wipe away sweat, hair, and dirt.
Focus areas:
Pay close attention to:
The underside of the panels
Girth straps (billets)
Areas where sweat tends to build up
This simple step goes a long way in preventing leather from drying out or deteriorating prematurely.
2. Deep Cleaning Your Leather Saddle
Once a week — or whenever the leather looks dull — it’s time for a deeper clean.
Use a dedicated leather cleaner:
Choose a high-quality glycerine saddle soap or a pH-neutral leather cleaner specifically designed for saddlery.
Avoid excess water:
Never hose down your saddle or use a dripping sponge. Too much water can penetrate stitching and flocking, leading to rot, stiffness, or internal damage.
How to clean:
Work the cleaner into a light lather and apply using gentle circular motions. Remove any residue with a clean, dry cloth.
3. Conditioning and “Feeding” the Leather
Just like skin, leather needs hydration to stay supple and prevent cracking.
Choose the right product:
Use a premium leather balsam or conditioner, quality matters here.
Apply sparingly:
A small amount is enough. Apply with a soft cloth and allow the conditioner to absorb naturally.
Avoid over-conditioning seated areas:
The seat and knee pads don’t need frequent conditioning, as over-softening can cause stretching. Focus instead on the flaps, skirts, and underside of the saddle.
How often:
Condition your saddle about once a month, or more frequently if you live in a dry climate or your saddle sees heavy use.
4. Proper Saddle Storage & Protection
How you store your saddle is just as important as how you clean it.
Use a proper saddle rack:
Store your saddle on a shaped rack that supports the tree evenly without putting pressure on the panels.
Cover it correctly:
Always use a breathable cotton saddle cover. Avoid plastic covers, which can trap moisture and encourage mould growth.
Control the environment:
Store your saddle in a cool, dry place. Heat sources like radiators can dry and crack leather, while damp tack rooms may lead to mould or “blue mold” forming.
For professional saddle fit checks, flocking assessments, or advice on long-term saddle care, visit our Saddle Care & Fitting Services page.
The Golden Rules of Saddle Care
Avoid oil unless advised by a professional saddler. Over-oiling can saturate leather fibres and compromise the saddle’s structure.
Inspect stitching monthly, especially on girth straps. Fraying or loose threads should be addressed immediately by a qualified saddler.
Check the flocking regularly. Wool flocking compresses over time. A professional saddle fit check every 6–12 months helps ensure comfort and balance for your horse.
Final Thoughts
With consistent care and correct storage, your Farrington saddle will continue to develop its natural patina and provide comfort for both horse and rider. Proper leather saddle care isn’t complicated, it’s about small, regular habits that protect your investment.
If you have questions about saddle fit, flocking, or long-term maintenance, the team at Auckland Saddle Fit is always happy to help.
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