Abstract: A sweat panel for a saddle is connected to the saddle by a flexible connection member along a portion of the width. The sweat panel perimeter replicates the under panel perimeter to enable the two to be separated by preferably less than one quarter inch. Billets are disclosed that notch the billet leather to receive a connecting strip to connect the billet leather to the tree webbing, thereby reducing the thickness of the billets.

Abstract: A sweat panel for a saddle is connected to the saddle by a flexible connection member along a portion of the width. The sweat panel perimeter replicates the under panel perimeter to enable the two to be separated by preferably less than one quarter inch. Billets are disclosed that notch the billet leather to receive a connecting strip to connect the billet leather to the tree webbing, thereby reducing the thickness of the billets.

Abstract: A saddle is constructed around a tree designed using data points based on X, Y, and Z axes which correspond to the conformation of a horse's back. Two pair of torsion springs, attached with specifically placed rivets, sandwich the tree providing structural support. To cushion and maintain the equidistant configuration of the tree, panels are carefully constructed using a six pound foam. The thickness of the panel lessens as it reaches the edge of the tree, preventing bunching when the leather is attached. A withers wedge is secured to the panel adjacent the withers, serving as a sub-support and buffering the contact between the tree and the horse's withers. The cantle wedge is set into the panel to control the slant and angle of the saddle. The stirrup bar is an elongated V-shaped which places the area of greatest pressure directly under the securing rivets.