The High Horse El Campo Cordura Gaited Trail Saddle 6970 is a lightweight, rider-friendly option designed specifically for gaited horses and long trail rides. Built with modern materials and comfort-focused design, this saddle provides freedom of movement for your horse and all-day comfort for the rider — all in a low-maintenance, easy-to-carry package.
🔍 Key Features
- Seat Size: Typically available in 15”–17” options to fit a wide range of riders
- Tree: Gaited horse tree designed to fit horses with higher withers and a smoother gait
- Material: Combination of leather and Cordura synthetic — reduces weight and resists weather
- Weight: Approximately 22–24 lbs — ideal for riders who want something lightweight
- Seat Style: Padded, grainout seat with moderate rise for trail comfort and posture support
- Skirts: Rounded Cordura skirts that reduce bulk and allow better fit on shorter-backed horses
- Rigging: Adjustable in-skirt rigging for a closer contact feel
- Stirrups: Nylon-covered with leather tapaderos optional on some models
- Finish Options: Usually come in black or brown with stainless steel hardware and simple tooling
✅ Benefits
- 🐎 Gaited Horse Fit – Designed with bar angles and gullet clearance to support natural movement
- 🧍♀️ Lightweight – Ideal for smaller riders or those with back or arm concerns
- 🧽 Low Maintenance – Cordura skirts clean easily and don’t absorb moisture like full leather
- 🌄 Trail-Ready – Balanced seat, comfortable design, and long tie strings for gear make it perfect for long rides
- 💸 Affordable Quality – Offers quality construction and comfort at a mid-range price point
🇺🇸 USA Buying Guide
- Price Range: Typically around $1,000–$1,200 depending on condition and seller
- Where to Buy: Tack stores, horse equipment sites, or directly from High Horse dealers
- Shipping Tips: Most U.S. vendors ship free or at flat rates, and some offer trial periods for fit checks
🇬🇧 UK Buying Guide
- Buying Method: Order from a U.S. seller that ships internationally, or use a forwarding service
- Estimated Total Cost: £1,100–£1,400 including VAT, duties, and international shipping
- Import Tip: Choose slower shipping to reduce costs, and ask the seller to declare accurate used or synthetic value if applicable
- Customs Advice: Use the product description “synthetic equestrian saddle” to streamline the import process
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What makes this saddle good for gaited horses?
The tree is designed with more flare and clearance at the shoulder and wither to allow a freer, smoother movement — ideal for naturally gaited breeds like Tennessee Walkers, Paso Finos, and Missouri Fox Trotters.
Q2: Is Cordura durable enough for long-term use?
Yes, Cordura is a strong synthetic fabric that resists tears, moisture, and UV exposure. It’s especially useful for trail riders who want lower maintenance gear.
Q3: Can I use this saddle on non-gaited horses?
You can, but it’s optimized for gaited breeds. If your horse has a flatter back or wide shoulders, a traditional trail saddle may fit better.
Q4: How does the adjustable rigging help?
The in-skirt rigging allows for multiple cinch positions. You can balance the saddle better and adjust for different horse shapes, increasing comfort and security.
Q5: Is this saddle good for beginners?
Absolutely. It’s lightweight, easy to care for, and built with rider comfort in mind — ideal for trail riders who are still learning proper balance and posture.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The High Horse El Campo Cordura Gaited Trail Saddle 6970 is a smart, user-friendly choice for trail riders who need lightweight durability without sacrificing comfort. With its synthetic materials, gaited-horse fit, and thoughtful rigging setup, it’s a fantastic option for both seasoned riders and beginners alike — whether you’re cruising down country trails in the U.S. or exploring bridle paths across the UK.