saddle
Somewhat curved unit that is made mostly of leather; it is set on the horse’s back for the rider to sit on.
eye
Slot in the top part of the stirrup iron through which the stirrup leather passes.
tab
Belt with small holes that is attached to the knee roll; the girth strap is buckled to it.
tread
Lower part of the stirrup iron where the rider’s foot is placed.
branch
One of two metal arms that connect the tread to the eye.
stirrup leather
Adjustable strap that hangs from the saddle to support the stirrup iron.
flap
Piece of leather that covers the knee roll and the tabs; the rider’s thighs press against it.
panel
Padding for the saddle that is designed to dampen impact and protect the horse’s back.
cantle
Back part of the saddle that is rounded slightly upward to support the lower back.
pommel
Front part of the saddle that is slightly rounded; the rider can hold onto it with the hand.
tree
Curved part under the pommel that is traditionally made of wood; it forms the front part of the saddle’s framework.
seat
Slightly concave part of the saddle on which the rider sits.
skirt
Piece of leather that is attached to the flap; it covers the stirrup leather buckles.
knee roll
Piece of leather that forms the side of the saddle; it mainly protects the horse from the girth strap buckles.
girth
Strap around the horse’s belly that keeps the saddle on its back.
girth strap
Small belt that is attached to the end of the girth; it has a buckle for attaching it to the tab to tighten it.