Revolutionizing the Horse World: The Evolution of Parelli Saddles and the SMARTFLX™ Tree

Riding horses has long been a cherished activity, fostering bonds between riders and their equine companions. However, for years, the design of most saddles has not considered the horse’s point of view. Saddles can be uncomfortable or worse, even harmful, saddles were in need of a transformation. In 2001, enter the Parelli’s and their team. Visionaries in the equestrian world, whose passion for horses sparked the creation of Parelli Saddles and the game-changing SMARTFLX™ tree. Pat Parelli’s contribution to the fundamental development of the revolutionary approach to saddle fit continues to enhance the quality of horse’s lives all around the world. With over 10,000+ Parelli Saddles around the globe, we’ve developed a remarkable technology that is transforming the quality of horse’s lives.

Over two decades ago, Parelli Saddles set out to create a saddle that not only provided comfort for the horse but also enhanced the riding experience for the rider. The result was the groundbreaking Natural Performer, Ranch Roper, and now, the Natural Performer Light all meticulously engineered around the innovative SMARTFLX™ tree.

Central to Parelli Saddles, the SMARTFLX™ tree is the product of exhaustive research and development. It was engineered for unrestricted motion and comfort during riding. Unlike traditional rigid saddle trees that could cause pressure points and restrict the horse's movement, the SMARTFLX™ tree adapts and flexes with the horse's natural motion. 

The SMARTFLX™ western trees are ingeniously crafted as a one-piece molded shape, housing "bars" and a "groundseat." This unique molded piece employs a specially formulated elastomer compound material—firm enough to support the rider and safeguard the horse's back, yet flexible enough to allow the horse to move freely as nature intended, while ensuring the rider feels intimately connected and harmonized with their horse. This incredibly thin, close-contact structure facilitates an unparalleled connection, enabling riders to feel the nuanced movements beneath them. Our fiberglass covered, wooden forks and cantles provide the base stability to hold the bars at the attitude and angle that our research proved was optimal.

The SMARTFLX™ WESTERN trees amalgamate the finest attributes of a superior Western saddle—such as optimum weight distribution—with the best facets of a quality English saddle, enabling the horse to collect, round its back and muscles, and flex both laterally and longitudinally with remarkable ease. This amalgamation results in unparalleled comfort for both rider and horse during extended periods. Crafted into the SMARTFLX™ shape are ergonomic considerations that intimately connect the rider to the horse's movements while maintaining a secure, unstressed posture in hip, knee, and ankle joints.

Distinguished by two different widths, the Standard (STD) Gullet and the Superwide (SW) Gullet, Parelli Saddles offer customizability catering to various horse breeds and training progressions. Each width variation meticulously integrates subtle changes in attitude and angle along the bars, ensuring an embrace-like fit without impeding the horse's natural movement. The design considers not just the functionality but also the well-being of the horse, aligning perfectly with Pat Parelli's philosophy of natural horsemanship.

The impact of Parelli Saddles with the SMARTFLX™ tree has been profound in the horse world. Riders and trainers have witnessed a significant improvement in their horse's performance, behavior, and overall well-being. The innovative design has garnered acclaim for its contribution to enhancing the partnership between horse and rider.

Parelli Saddles' journey from recognizing the shortcomings of traditional saddles to the creation of the SMARTFLX™ tree represents a remarkable evolution in the equestrian world. Through dedication, innovation, and a deep understanding of equine biomechanics, Parelli Saddles have reshaped the way we perceive saddles, setting a new standard for comfort, performance, and horse welfare.

As the equestrian community continues to evolve, Parelli Saddles remains at the forefront, driving positive change and fostering a harmonious connection between humans and horses.