Wooden saddle tree for pony saddle

Durability, lightness, and ergonomics designed with ponies in mind

The Pony saddle tree from L’Arçonnerie Française is specially designed to meet the morphological characteristics of ponies and the requirements of both recreational and instructional riding. Its design features a very open arch and reduced withers clearance , which are essential for adapting to the rounder shoulders, shorter backs, and less pronounced withers typical of ponies.

Designed for versatile use, leisure, clubs, beginners, and multidisciplinary practice, this saddle tree offers a balanced and secure seat, ideal for accompanying young riders through all stages of their progress.

High-quality materials and tailored design

The structure of the Pony model is based on laminated beech wood, chosen for its combination of robustness, lightness, and flexibility. This multi-layer construction ensures stability while absorbing the stresses associated with the pony's movements.

The bands are designed to provide a uniform support surface without hindering movement. The stirrup bars ensure that the stirrup leathers are securely fastened, helping young riders to feel confident.

Dimensions and adjustments

The dimensions of the saddle are crucial. The correct length, width, and seat depth are essential to ensure the pony’s comfort and the rider’s safety.

Below are the standard dimensions available :

A range of sizes to suit the majority of equine morphologies, with the possibility of customized adaptations.

The dimensions of the saddle tree must be determined based on the pony’s body type. Even with a standard saddle tree, these measurements allow the saddler to select the size and shape best suited to the animal.

As part of a custom project, L’Arçonnerie Française provides a comprehensive, illustrated, and detailed guide to measuring a horse’s back.

Download the horse back measurement guide (PDF)
Download the horse back measurement guide (PDF)

Customization and options

The Pony saddle tree is available without standard options. Any customizations are made exclusively upon request, through consultation and direct communication with the saddler, in order to precisely meet the needs of the horse and rider.

Custom options (available upon request via the contact form)

• • Custom dimensions, made according to measurements taken by the saddler.
  • Very open arch, adjustable to fit the patient's dental anatomy.
  • Custom-made cantle, crafted according to the saddler's specifications.

Recommendations for use

The Pony saddle tree, made of laminated wood, offers excellent structural stability. To preserve its qualities over time, it is recommended to store it in an environment with constant temperature and humidity. As with any natural material, paying particular attention to exposure to water and extreme weather conditions will ensure its longevity.

The adjustment must be carried out carefully, and the type of saddle envisaged and its use (intensive work, competition, leisure) are also factors to be taken into account.

Historical background and know-how

The use of ponies in France developed mainly during the 20th century, with the rise of equestrian centers and riding lessons for children. Unlike saddles for horses, whose tradition dates back several centuries, the design of saddles adapted to ponies is a relatively recent development in French saddlery. It responds to the emergence of new needs : lighter equipment, smaller seats, and geometries adjusted to rounder and more compact body types.

The adoption of laminated beech wood, a technique that emerged in the early 20th century in the manufacture of saddle trees, has profoundly modernized the craft. This construction method has made it possible to produce saddle trees that are more stable, more resistant, and less prone to deformation, while retaining the elasticity necessary for the comfort of the horse or pony in this specific case.

The Pony model is part of this tradition : it adapts the proven principles of French artisanal saddlery to the contemporary requirements of children's riding and club practices. Its design combines artisanal precision, an understanding of educational needs, and expertise in the morphological constraints specific to ponies, to offer reliable, durable, and safe equipment.

Conclusion

The Pony saddle tree from L’Arçonnerie Française provides a reliable, stable base that is perfectly suited to ponies and young riders. With its wide gullet and reduced gullet, it can be used to create comfortable, durable, custom-made saddles that are ideal for all club and leisure riding.

Handcrafted products

Made-to-measure and 100% French. Handcrafted in our own workshop, each tree is adjusted according to the saddler's precise requirements. L'Arçonnerie Française guarantees top-of-the-range craftsmanship in the French saddlery tradition.