To: Mounted search and rescue <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
Subject: Re: [MSAR] Side Saddle Questions
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 19:10:55 -0600
T'mi, interesting questions!
I don't know of any MSAR team that disapproves the use of specific
types of saddle. The only minor exception being those posse groups
that specify a "Western" saddle but this has more to do with rodeo
ceremony and parade riding than SAR.
I would have no safety concerns about a rider using a side-saddle,
provided the rider is secure in it. And given the design of these
saddles I would expect a skilled rider to be very secure.
Someone with significant neuropathy involving a lower limb, or even
a prosthetic foot, could well be better off in a side-saddle than
riding astride. Here in New Mexico the SAR community includes a
number of amputees. They are remarkably able, resourceful persons.