How Proper leather Care Extends Leather Life and Retains Resale Value
A quality leather English saddle is a major investment that can last for decades with basic care. Australian weather conditions, ranging from humid summers to dry, dusty conditions, take a toll on leather fibers, causing cracking, stiffening, and color fading if left untreated.
Daily maintenance takes only a few minutes after riding. Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away sweat, dirt, and hair from the sweat flaps, girth billets, and underside of the panels. Horse sweat contains salts that draw moisture out of natural leather, causing billets to dry out and become brittle if sweat builds up.
Deep conditioning should be done every few weeks depending on usage. Apply a high-quality leather balsam or glycerine-based soap to keep the hide supple and water-resistant. Pay extra attention to high-friction areas, such as where stirrup leathers rub against the main flap.
Storing your saddle on a rounded saddle rack inside a dry, well-ventilated tack room prevents mold growth and preserves the internal tree symmetry. Browse our range of saddle covers to protect your gear for years to come.