OnTheTelephone

I have never bought a custom saddle-I just couldn't afford one. But honestly, are they worth it? Should I just stop pining for one?

Is there really a big difference between a custom saddle and just an 'off the rack' one. Can you feel the difference when using it?

aplslch

The only people who need a custom saddle are the ones with either weird dimensions themselves or a hard to fit horse (this happens less as tack stores and manufacturers offer more variety). Lots of people want them to feel special and thus they sell well, but not everyone needs one. I think its worth it if your horse is hard to fit, and your horse will thank you I'm sure.

gallopingjoe

Custom saddles are not a necessity unless off the rack saddles don't fit well with you and your horse. Most companies will just tailor it for you though, so you don't have to spring for a custom made one.

flatback_frannie

I don't have one either. I think they are best for you if you can't find a saddle that's comfortable... but oh! the cost!

I really wanted one as a teenager, but because I wanted some pretty custom designs in the leather, not because I needed one!

horseplay

I don't think they're worth it. Most people and horses are roughly the same shape so a regular saddle would work fine. I can't see paying the extra cost.