Welcome to Kent Cannon Saddlery’s Blog

Yesterday I pretty much wrapped up the final assembly of this Will James Ranch Roper. The stirrup leathers are in place, concha’s and saddle strings with bleeder knots tied, and flank billets tooled oiled and laced in place, and stirrup leathers soaked and in the process assuming their permanent position. Tomorrow I will install the […]

By Kent Cannon, Kent Cannon Saddlery Introduction In today’s global market, countless products are manufactured overseas, offering American consumers lower prices and a broad selection. While opinions differ, the reality is that imported goods are here to stay and have largely been embraced. Even the saddle industry isn’t immune to this trend, and while certain […]

The main differences between a custom Western saddle and a factory-built Western saddle revolve around craftsmanship, personalization, and production process. In summary, custom saddles offer a tailored fit and unique features suited to your personal style and needs, while factory-built saddles provide practical, reliable options at a more accessible price point. Your choice depends on […]

Understanding Leather Types: Split, Suede, Buffed, Tumbled, Veg Tan, and Chrome Tan A Guide to Common Leather Terms and Their Meanings Introduction Leather terms can be confusing when you’re comparing products. This guide explains the most common types and processes—split, suede, buffed, tumbled, veg tan, and chrome tan—so you can choose based on feel, durability, […]

Discover the Benefits of Investing in Quality Craftsmanship Exceptional Fit and Comfort A custom handmade Western saddle from Kent Cannon Saddlery is built specifically for you and your horse. Unlike mass-produced saddles, the custom design takes into account your riding style, body shape, and your horse’s unique conformation, ensuring optimal comfort for both rider and […]

Kent Cannon Saddlery is renowned for its craftsmanship in producing high-quality custom saddles. Each saddle is a product of meticulous craftsmanship, combining traditional techniques with modern innovations to meet the specific needs of riders. This document provides an in-depth look at how a quality custom saddle is built, from material selection to the final finishing […]

Comprehensive Saddle Clean, Wash, and Condition Process The Importance of Saddle Care A well-maintained saddle is essential for both the horse’s comfort and the rider’s safety. Over time, sweat, dirt, and weather can take a toll on leather and hardware, leading to premature wear or even safety hazards. At Kent Cannons, our Saddle Clean, Wash, […]

Real sheepskin or synthetic? Both real sheepskin and synthetic fleece can both work for lining western saddle skirts. The best choice depends on climate, maintenance willingness, budget, and how much you value cushioning versus ease of care. Pros and cons Key considerations for your decision Practical care tips

A practical guide for caring for oiling leather gear. If you care for your saddle and leather gear properly it will provide you with years of service and for the generations that follow. Quick-start overview What to use (by leather type) Step-by-step for veg-tan or very dry items Important tips

Measuring for a custom Western belt involves a few simple steps to ensure the perfect fit: 1. **Measure Your Waist or Hip Size    – Use a flexible measuring tape.      – Wrap it around your waist or hips where you want the belt to sit. For most Western belts, the ideal position is at your natural […]

Fitting a western saddle to a rider is about your seat, legs, and balance—while also keeping the horse’s back in mind. Here’s a practical guide to get you started, plus tips you can use in a store or with a fitter. Top considerations Step-by-step for fitting (in order) Seat size guidelines (rough starting points) Stirrups […]

Fitting a western saddle involves multiple factors which must work together for both the horse and rider for comfort, safety, and performance. Horse Fit Factors Gullet Width and Clearance: The gullet must be 2-3 fingers away from the horse’s withers to prevent pinching or pressure on the spin. A gullet that is too narrow will […]

Fitting a Saddle using the Dennis Lane System The Dennis Lane Saddle Fitting System is a well-regarded approach to ensuring optimal saddle fit for both horse and rider. Developed by Dennis Lane, a respected equine professional, this system emphasizes precise measurement and assessment techniques to achieve the best possible fit. Key features of the Dennis […]

Ensuring a proper fit for a western saddle is essential for your horse’s comfort, performance, and overall well-being. Here’s a helpful overview: Proper fit ensures your horse remains comfortable, healthy, and responsive. Let me know if you’d like tips on fitting specific saddle to your horse! The Dennis Lane Saddle Fitting System While the afore […]

Guidance for Selecting the Correct Saddle Size by Kent Cannon Saddlery Introduction Choosing the right seat length for a western saddle is crucial for both rider comfort and safety. Kent Cannon Saddlery, known for its quality craftsmanship, emphasizes the importance of proper fit to ensure a positive riding experience. This guide outlines the steps to […]

A little update on the custom bible case I’m putting together. I’m waiting on some navy blue dye to finish it up. I have everything set up to do so, but I hate to switch gears, break everything down to start my next project before this baby is done.I got some liner fabric in for […]

The Difference Between My Handmade Saddles Vs Foreign Factory Built Saddles Could Save Your Life! Introduction When it comes to horseback riding, the importance of saddle quality cannot be overstated. Your saddle is not just a piece of equipment—it is the foundation of your safety, comfort, and the well-being of your horse. In this document, […]

Buying a Used Saddle, a Comprehensive Guide Practical Advice for Horse Owners, Saddle Buyers, and Equestrian Enthusiasts Introduction Buying a used saddle can be a smart and economical choice for horse owners and riders. With the right approach, you can find high-quality equipment that suits your needs and budget. However, purchasing a used saddle requires […]

What to Do with a Broken Saddle Tree? Guidance for Riders and Saddle Owners Introduction A saddle tree forms the essential framework of a saddle, providing support, structure, and shape. When a saddle tree is broken, it compromises the safety of both horse and rider. Addressing a broken saddle tree promptly and correctly is crucial […]