FAQs

• What makes your tree design different?
Franco trees are engineered specifically around the biomechanics of today’s performance horses and the comfort of female and males riders. Because we are not the same. Our trees use a balanced, close-contact profile that distributes weight evenly across the horse’s back while keeping the rider centered and supported. We build with reinforced bars and strategic flex zones—giving strength where it’s needed and subtle give where comfort matters. The result is a tree that stays true under pressure, fits a broader range of horses, and helps riders maintain stability without fighting the saddle.

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• What makes your rigging system different?
Our rigging is designed to keep the saddle locked in place without restricting the horse’s shoulders. We use an integrated, low-bulk rigging system that pulls from the correct angles, creating even cinch pressure and preventing the saddle from rolling, shifting, or creeping forward. By reducing unnecessary hardware and weight, Franco rigging provides a more natural feel, a cleaner fit, and improved freedom of movement—especially important for  athletes working at speed.

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• What movement-based functions does your saddle achieve?
Franco Saddles are built to support dynamic movement for both horse and rider. Key functions include:

• Better shoulder freedom so the horse can stride, turn, and accelerate without pinch points.

• Enhanced hip-to-seat connection to keep the rider balanced in position during pulls, turns, and lateral work.

• Shock absorption and energy transfer control through the tree and seat design to reduce fatigue.

• Stable center balance that keeps the rider secure whether sitting deep, standing up to rope, or tracking cattle.

Everything is designed to help the horse move freely and the rider stay naturally aligned—no compensation, no fighting the saddle, just clean, efficient motion.

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• How does it change rider-to-horse communication?

Franco Saddles create a clearer, cleaner line of communication by improving alignment and feel:

• The balanced seat places the rider in a natural, neutral position, so cues come through the leg and seat—not through compensation or gripping.

• Close-contact design lets the rider feel the horse’s rhythm and adjust instantly.

• Reduced saddle shift means signals aren’t blurred by rocking, sliding, or bracing.

• Because the horse moves freely beneath the saddle, the rider receives more accurate feedback.

It results in quieter cues, quicker responses, and a more unified ride.

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• What performance improvements have you seen?

Riders consistently report measurable improvements, including:

• Stronger, freer strides due to improved shoulder mobility.

• Better stops and turns because the saddle stays still and keeps the rider centered.

• More power in acceleration and tracking with no saddle interference.

• Reduced soreness in both horse and rider after high-intensity work.

• Increased rider balance and stability

• More confident horses thanks to comfort and unrestricted movement.

The result is a smoother partnership, improved efficiency, and better overall performance in real work and arena situations.