NRS Competitor Series Heavy Oil 1/2 Breed Tapete Grande All Around Youth Saddle

The NRS Competitor Series Heavy Oil 1/2 Breed Tapete Grande All Around Youth Saddle is built for the next generation of horsemen and horsewomen. Designed to do it all — from basic arena work and trail riding to junior roping and gymkhana — this youth saddle offers durability, grip, and a handcrafted Western look that inspires confidence in and out of the saddle. Featuring Tapete Grande tooling in a rich heavy oil finish, it combines eye-catching style with dependable performance.

🔍 Key Features

• Seat Size: Common youth fit — 12” to 13.5”
• Tree: Youth all-around tree – lighter and balanced for smaller riders
• Leather: Premium heavy oil leather for weather resistance and deep color
• Tooling: 1/2 Breed Tapete Grande pattern – bold, hand-tooled design across fenders and skirts
• Seat: Suede or roughout seat for added grip and security
• Cantle: Medium height (around 4″) for back support
• Horn: Moderate height – versatile for practice roping and general riding
• Rigging: 7/8 in-skirt rigging – keeps the saddle light and close contact
• Skirt: Rounded youth skirt – fits small horses and ponies comfortably
• Stirrups: Youth-sized leather-wrapped wooden stirrups with easy adjustments
• Weight: Approx. 22–26 lbs – light enough for kids to handle

✅ Key Benefits

• 🎯 All-Around Versatility – Use it for trail, gymkhana, practice roping, or everyday riding
• 🧲 Grippy and Secure – Roughout or suede seat helps young riders stay centered
• 🌟 Stylish Design – Tapete Grande floral pattern stands out without being too bold
• 🐎 Horse-Friendly Fit – Shorter skirt and light build suit ponies or smaller Quarter Horses
• 🧱 Durable Build – Heavy oil leather resists wear and protects against sweat and moisture

🇺🇸 USA Buying Guide

• Price (New): $1,200 – $1,500
• Used Range: $850 – $1,150
• Where to Buy: NRS tack dealers, Western gear stores, used saddle websites
• Shipping Estimate: $50–$75 within the U.S.
• Used Buying Tips:
  • Check for tree integrity and sound rigging
  • Make sure stirrup leathers are adjustable and not dry
  • Confirm wool underside is clean and not overly worn

🇬🇧 UK Buying Guide

• Total Estimated Cost (incl. shipping, VAT, and duties): £1,200 – £1,700
• Shipping Time: 2–4 weeks via international freight
• How to Buy: Order from U.S. stores that ship globally or use forwarding services
• Import Tip: Use HS Code 4201.00 and mark as “Youth All-Around Saddle – Personal Use”

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What does “Tapete Grande tooling” mean?

“Tapete Grande” is a bold, traditional Western tooling pattern — it features large, sweeping floral or geometric designs carved into the leather for a strong, clean look.

Q2: Is this saddle good for youth barrel racing or roping?

Yes — it’s an all-around model, meaning it’s suitable for multiple disciplines like barrel racing, breakaway roping, trail riding, or basic lessons.

Q3: What does “heavy oil” mean in saddle leather?

Heavy oil is a deep conditioning finish applied to the leather to enrich the color, add softness, and protect against moisture and wear.

Q4: Will it fit ponies or small horses?

Yes. With a shorter skirt and youth-sized proportions, it’s designed to fit ponies and smaller stock-type horses comfortably.

Q5: Can my child lift or saddle with it on their own?

At about 22–26 lbs, most youth riders can manage it with some guidance. It’s much lighter than adult saddles, which often exceed 35 lbs.

🏁 Final Thoughts

The NRS Competitor Series Heavy Oil 1/2 Breed Tapete Grande All Around Youth Saddle is an ideal choice for kids who are getting serious about their horsemanship. It’s light, comfortable, stylish, and tough — everything a young rider needs to grow in skill and confidence. Whether they’re practicing barrels, learning to rope, or riding trails, this saddle is made to move with them every step of the way.