Simco Saddles Store
Born in the heart of Chattanooga during the 1930s, Simco Saddles carries nearly a century of American craftsmanship into every ride. These saddles represent a masterclass in durability, blending the heritage of the Tennessee valley with the rugged spirit of Texas manufacturing. Ranchers and rodeo athletes alike rely on Simco’s signature Hermann Oak leather and reinforced bullhide trees for performance that withstands the toughest tasks. Whether you are searching for a vintage basket-stamped masterpiece or a reliable working roper, the Simco legacy ensures a piece of Western history is always in your tack room. Horse enthusiasts continue to prize these saddles for their exceptional value and time-honored construction that truly goes the distance.
Top Simco Saddles
Simco Dakota Flex Trail Saddle
Engineered with innovative flex tree technology, this saddle conforms to your horse’s unique shape to provide maximum comfort and freedom of movement during long-distance rides.
Simco Mena Flex Trail Saddle
This lightweight model features a specialized Quarter Horse Flex tree and a moderately deep seat to ensure a balanced, secure ride across varying terrains.
Simco Classic Roper
Built for the heavy-duty demands of the arena, this saddle utilizes a rawhide-wrapped wooden tree and reinforced hardware to handle the intense pressure of professional roping.
Simco Saddles brings legendary American craftsmanship to the modern rider, offering a diverse range of high-performance gear designed for comfort and longevity.
Our Western Performance Collection
From dusty ranch work to the precision of the show ring, our gear is engineered to meet the demands of every discipline.
Trail Saddles
Experience unparalleled comfort on the long haul with our trail series, featuring innovative designs like the Dakota Flex and Mena Flex that prioritize your horse’s movement.
Barrel Saddles
Built for speed and sharp turns, these saddles provide the secure seat and lightweight agility needed to shave seconds off your run.
Arabian Saddles
Specifically tailored for the unique anatomy of the Arabian breed, these saddles offer a refined fit that respects the shorter back and high wither of the horse.
Roping Saddles
Heavy-duty construction defines our roping line, utilizing reinforced hardware and sturdy wooden trees to withstand the intense pressure of dallying.
From the Saddle: Customer Experiences
James Miller – After three decades of ranch work, I finally switched to the Simco Classic Roper, and the difference in the reinforced hardware and bullhide tree is night and day when I’m working cattle. The weight distribution is spot on, and even after a ten-hour day in the heat, the saddle holds its shape perfectly without putting unnecessary stress on my horse’s back.
Sarah Thompson – I took my Mena Flex Trail Saddle out on its maiden voyage through the Appalachian foothills last weekend, and for the first time in years, I didn’t return home with a sore lower back. The Quarter Horse Flex tree allowed my gelding to move his shoulders freely on the steep inclines, and the leather quality is far superior to any of the synthetic options I’ve tried in the past.
Robert Sterling – Finding a saddle that fits my high-withered Arabian has always been a nightmare, but Simco’s specialized Arabian tree fits him like a glove and stays centered even during spirited gallops. The craftsmanship on the basket-stamped leather is beautiful enough for local shows, yet durable enough that I don’t mind getting it a little dirty out on the trails.
Simco FAQ
How can I determine the age and model of my Simco saddle?
You can identify the history of your saddle by locating the serial number, which is typically stamped on the under-flap or on a small leather tag near the rigging. On many models produced since the late 20th century, the first two digits of the serial number indicate the year of manufacture (for example, a number starting with “88” would denote a 1988 model).
What is the difference between the Dakota Flex and the Mena Flex trail models?
While both utilize flexible tree technology to accommodate a horse’s movement, the Dakota Flex is designed as an all-around endurance and trail saddle, whereas the Mena Flex features a specialized Quarter Horse Flex tree. The Mena Flex is specifically engineered for balanced weight distribution on wider-backed horses, making it a favorite for riders with stockier builds.
How do I maintain the leather to ensure it lasts for decades?
Because Simco uses high-quality materials like Hermann Oak leather, regular maintenance is essential to prevent “dry rot.” You should clean the leather after every few rides with a pH-balanced saddle soap to remove sweat and salt, followed by a light application of leather conditioner to keep the fibers supple and prevent cracking.
Does Simco offer saddles specifically for high-withered horses?
Yes, Simco has historically produced specialized Arabian and high-wither models that feature a narrower gullet and a different bar angle. These models are designed to provide the necessary clearance for the spinal processes, ensuring the pommel does not put pressure on the horse’s sensitive wither area.
What should I check for when buying a used Simco saddle?
The most critical step is to check the integrity of the tree by bracing the pommel against your hip and pulling back on the cantle; any popping or excessive squeaking could indicate a structural crack. Additionally, inspect the fleece lining for thinning and ensure the leather near the rigging is not brittle or flaking, as these load-bearing areas must remain strong for rider safety.