saddle![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Somewhat curved unit that is made mostly of leather; it is set on the horse’s back for the rider to sit on.
eye ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Slot in the top part of the stirrup iron through which the stirrup leather passes.
tab ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Belt with small holes that is attached to the knee roll; the girth strap is buckled to it.
tread ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Lower part of the stirrup iron where the rider’s foot is placed.
branch ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
One of two metal arms that connect the tread to the eye.
stirrup leather ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Adjustable strap that hangs from the saddle to support the stirrup iron.
flap ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Piece of leather that covers the knee roll and the tabs; the rider’s thighs press against it.
panel ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Padding for the saddle that is designed to dampen impact and protect the horse’s back.
cantle ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Back part of the saddle that is rounded slightly upward to support the lower back.
pommel ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Front part of the saddle that is slightly rounded; the rider can hold onto it with the hand.
tree ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Curved part under the pommel that is traditionally made of wood; it forms the front part of the saddle’s framework.
seat ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Slightly concave part of the saddle on which the rider sits.
skirt ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Piece of leather that is attached to the flap; it covers the stirrup leather buckles.
knee roll ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Piece of leather that forms the side of the saddle; it mainly protects the horse from the girth strap buckles.
girth ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Strap around the horse’s belly that keeps the saddle on its back.
girth strap ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Small belt that is attached to the end of the girth; it has a buckle for attaching it to the tab to tighten it.