Recado Criollo or the multi-functional saddle
For the gaucho, the recado criollo is much more than a saddle. It is made in such a way that it not only provides a good seat, but also serves as a bed, which is particularly useful for long journeys. That is why it is so important for the gaucho, along with his horse. All the gaucho owns is that, and travels with it.
The Historical Background of Gaucho Saddles
The horse and faithful partner of the gaucho is the Criollo Argentino. This horse is a descendant of the horses that arrived with the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Pedro de Mendoza and about 1500 passengers, among them nobles and knights of the military order arrived in 14 ships to the Rio de la Plata and on February 3, 1536 founded the city of the "Santisima Trinidad and the port of Nuestra Señora de los Buenos Aires". With them came the horses whose genetics were derived from the Berberisco horse from Africa, the Andalusian and the Jaca. But, the constant attacks of the natives plus the diseases and the hunger forced the conquerors to flee and to abandon the place, leaving a proliferoi gift: the horses (7 males and 5 mares), and the cattle. That gift, later became the main wealth of those lands. Then, the free horses in the wild adapted to their new environment; they became more resistant and more robust, energetic, agile and long-lived. They are Criollo Argentino breed, horses with a strong personality and character. To describe this breed, it is enough to know about Aimé Félix Tschiffely and his two Criollo horses Gato and Mancha who joined Buenos Aires and New York. The trip started in 1925 and lasted three years, 18,000 km and they endured a climate ranging from -18C to 52C and different altitudes and terrains.
Back to the main topic, the saddles, the gauchos adapted the Spanish saddles. The most significant change was that Spanish saddles were very high which ensured a fall given the physical changes of the horses and the treacherous terrain with pits and slopes. These changes in the Spanish saddles were what gave rise to the lomillos: two oval-shaped shanks, joined by cowhide. Because of its migrant nature of the gaucho, the lomillo was adding pieces and became the recado criollo. The recado criolo it is not only a saddle, it is also essential for travel as it adapts and serves as a bed and blanket to withstand the cold temperatures. “The recado assumes the role of both [Gaucho’s] saddle and bed. Remarkably, it performs both functions amazingly…
The recado is his home, a nomadic home that always travels with him” from “La Pampa” book written by Alfredo Ebelot
Parts of the saddle and how to saddle your horse
How to saddle a horse, from losequinos.com channel. Video in Spanish, translation is below
In this opportunity we are going to teach you the procedure of how to saddle a horse. After holding the horse, the next step is to brush the back, the belly, make sure it does not have any thistle that could bother it. Now we go with the step by step: first we place the “sudadera”, then we continue by placing two “matras”, we continue with the “lomillo”, in this case it is a pallet saddle pad, it has the saddle pad already sewn. The “encimera” is where the girth and stirrups are attached. We make sure that everything is placed neatly and evenly, loosen the girth on the other side at a distance of a quarter. Then we adjust the girth with the” corrion” (as you can see in the video). Always adjust the girth according to the size of the horse's belly, so that we can make sure that it does not pinch, that the horse is comfortable. It is cinched on both sides. The girth goes about 5 toes from the horse's armpit. This girth is a wide girth. The corrion is hooked on the poles and then covered with leather. Now we put the leather (carona), it should be even on both sides. Now we put the pegual.
Parts of Recado Criollo
“Sudadera" Generally made of cotton fabric, its function is to absorb the horse's sweat.
"Matra" Woven in loom, of cotton or wool, it serves to avoid that the rubbing of the leather hurts the horse and of shelter for the gaucho, when the night surprised him in his trip.
"Carona" Rectangular piece of leather, its function is to prevent the displacement of the pieces of leather between them. Between the "carona" and the "lomillo" or "bastos", the "caronero" knife is placed.
‘Sobrepuesto" or “encimera”, usually made of capybara leather, is placed on the saddle pad.
"Lomillo" is the saddle itself. It is made up of two bastos joined by leather.
"Cojinillo" sheep hair on hide leather, provides comfort when riding and warmth at night.
"Cincha" It is the leather strip (there are models in fabric) that adjusts the lomillo
“Sobrecincha” is the one that keeps all the components in place.
"Pegual" strip of leather with rings to hold animals or to transport objects.
Stirrups The size of the stirrups is small, allowing to support the toes and to get a good position of the feet with the heels well down. A long time ago, the boots of the gauchos were a slice of leather that left the toes uncovered. so they used to gallop long distances with only the big toe in the stirrup.
As time passed, more people became interested in riding horses, which led to an increase in demand for better-quality saddles. As a result, gaucho saddles began to evolve into beautiful leather designs with higher-quality tree materials such as ironwood or lignum vitae that could withstand the increased strain on long rides at gallop speeds. This allowed riders to go further faster, which revolutionized cattle herding throughout South America.
In addition to their practical advantages, gaucho saddles also became widely appreciated for their stylish appearance a reflection of their riders’ personalities and individual cultures. Today they are often intricately decorated with traditional silver details, intricate tooling patterns that give these saddles both character and charm.
Gaucho saddles remain popular today both in Argentina as well as around the world due to their combination of old-world craftsmanship with modern convenience and comfort features such as padded seats and shock-absorbing stirrups. For many riders, there is no better way to experience the joys of riding than on a traditional gaucho saddle. In addition, the equestrian tradition in Argentina, added to the passion and art result in magnificent works of art that can be seen in art galleries.
The influence of the British in the Argentine culture was very great, and it can be appreciated in everything related to the equestrian world. Thanks to the contributions of these immigrants, Argentina not only has the typical riding equipment of the country, but also has English style equipment, so you can find saddles and everything you need for Polo, dressage, jumping, all purpuse and pony.
What are the Benefits of Using Gaucho Saddles?
Gaucho saddles offer many benefits, both practical and aesthetic.
The most obvious benefits include the following:
● Comfort: Gaucho saddles provide an exceptional level of comfort to both the rider and horse. The unique design of the saddle tree ensures that the pressure points created by the rider’s weight are spread evenly, which helps to reduce fatigue and discomfort for both rider and horse. Additionally, their use of vegetable-tanned leather ensures that they are soft against the horse's back while still providing durability and strength.
● Support: The shock-absorbent saddle tree is designed to give riders maximum support and stability during their ride. The supportive shape allows riders to have full confidence in their saddle when riding at any speed or jumping obstacles. Riders will be able to keep their balance more easily when riding as well as maintain proper posture for better control over the horse.
● Durability: With its tough construction, a Gaucho saddle can withstand years of wear and tear with little maintenance required from its owner. The vegetable-tanned leather used on the saddles is highly resistant to water damage, making it ideal for all kinds of weather conditions, whether it's rain or sun. Its unique design also makes it easier to clean and maintain so you can get more out of your saddle without having to worry about it breaking down prematurely.
● Fit: Gaucho saddles come in a variety of sizes and shapes, making them much easier than other brands in terms of finding one that fits your specific needs or body type perfectly. All you need to do is measure yourself accurately before ordering a new saddle, so you know exactly what size you need - no guesswork involved.
● Aesthetics: Not only are Gaucho saddles comfortable, supportive, and durable, but they’re also beautiful. Their classic designs feature intricate details that make them stand out from other brands. Whether you're looking for something traditional or modern, there's sure to be a style that will fit your taste perfectly.
● Affordability: Compared with some other major brands such as Passier or Smith-Worthington, Gaucho saddles are extremely affordable for those looking for quality equestrian equipment on a budget - now everyone can afford comfortable, stylish saddles without having to break the bank.
How to Choose the Best Saddle for Your Horse?
When it comes to horse gear, it’s important to find the right fit and shape for your horse so that it can be comfortable while riding. Gaucho saddles come in a range of sizes and styles to suit all shapes and sizes of the horse, from the recado Criollo saddle to the more traditional style with a higher cantle.
When it comes to horse health, it’s important to:
1. Evaluate Your Horse’s Physique: Before you can choose the best saddle for your horse, you must first know its body conformation. While many saddles on the market are “one size fits all,” it is important to understand how your horse’s body should fit in the saddle. Pay close attention to the shape of your horse's withers and back, as different breeds have different anatomical needs when it comes to selecting a saddle. Be sure to select a saddle that has enough clearance so that your horse's spine remains free from pressure points and will not be constricted while riding.
2. Consider Your Riding Styl: Next, consider what type of riding you do most often with your horse, as this will play an important role in which saddle is right for you. If you are looking for a comfortable pleasure, ride through the trails or light work such as dressage and jumping, then a lightly padded all-purpose or dressage style saddle may be best suited for you. If you tend to use your horse often for ranching or reining activities, then look into acquiring a Recado Criollo saddle designed specifically for these activities that offer more stability and durability without compromising comfortability.
3. Invest in Quality: Make sure to get a good saddle. Even though it may cost more money, it will last longer because it is made with better materials. Not only will investing in quality provide maximum comfort while riding but it will also ensure greater safety during performances due to its secure fitment around both parties.
Conclusion
Gaucho saddles are a great way to give your horse the comfort and support it needs while riding. With careful consideration towards horse conformation, riding style, brand research, and investing in quality - you can be sure to find the best saddle for both you and your horse. Now get out there and saddle up with the perfect Gaucho saddle.
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