What Are Saddlebags?

A saddlebag is one of a pair of pouches that hang over the back of a horse behind the saddle and are used for carrying supplies. Riding long distances means being away from home conveniences, so saddlebags provide a convenient place to carry everything from snacks to emergency gear. 

Early saddlebags were typically hand‑woven leather pouches and have been used since the 1800s by Indigenous tribes for transporting medicines and belongings. Modern designs still perform the same essential role but use lighter materials and clever attachment systems.

Types of Horse‑Riding Saddlebags

Pommel/Wither Bags

Pommel bags slide over the saddle horn or clip onto front D‑rings, placing them directly in front of the rider for easy access. Wither bags work on the same principle but attach to the girth billet or breastplate, making them ideal for quick access to water bottles, a hoof pick or a camera. Because they sit at the front of the saddle, these bags should carry only lightweight items so they don’t interfere with steering or the horse’s balance.

Cantle Bags and Paired Saddlebags

Cantle bags rest over the back of the saddle and have been used by equestrians for centuries. They are large enough to hold first‑aid kits, rain gear and lunches. Many come in paired designs – one pouch on either side of the cantle – to balance the load and prevent strain on the horse’s back. When packing cantle bags, keep heavier items low and distribute weight evenly to avoid shifting.

In‑Pad Pouches and Item‑Specific Holders

Trail riders who use English saddles often choose saddlebags sewn into the saddle pad. These in‑pad pouches fasten with hook‑and‑loop closures and hang toward the back of the saddle. Modern riders also use item‑specific holders, such as water‑bottle carriers, canteen carriers and first‑aid kits, which clip onto D‑rings on Western or endurance saddles. These niche bags make it easy to carry essentials like cell phones and hoof picks within easy reach.

Medicine and Gear‑Specific Saddlebags

Some manufacturers distinguish medicine saddlebags that keep human and equine first‑aid supplies organised. Gear‑specific bags are designed for particular items such as water bottles, sunglasses or GPS devices. On short rides you can often get by with a small pommel bag, whereas multi‑day treks may require both pommel and cantle bags for food, extra clothing and emergency equipment.

Materials: Balancing Tradition and Technology

Modern saddlebags come in a range of fabrics:

• Cloth materials (nylon, cotton and canvas) - These fabrics are durable, lightweight and often inexpensive. Nylon is particularly easy to clean but lacks the traditional rustic look some riders prefer.
• Waxed oilskin – Treated cloth that is waterproof, attractive and lighter than leather but can be more expensive.
• Leather – A natural material that offers a timeless, quality appearance and holds its shape well. Leather saddlebags can be tooled to match Western saddles but are heavier and require more maintenance.

When choosing material, consider your riding conditions and personal style. For example, a durable nylon saddle backpack like the Le Galop Saddle Backpack – Black offers water‑resistant nylon and YKK zippers - perfect for riders who want a lightweight bag that still protects their gear. Riders who appreciate luxury craftsmanship might prefer the hand‑made L’étalon Saddle Backpack - Black. Each bag is made from USA cowhides with Riri zippers imported from Switzerland and Italy, and over 60,000 stitches are required to assemble it.

Packing and Using Saddlebags Safely

Balance Your Load

The goal is to carry the essentials without overburdening your horse. Place heavier items at the bottom of the bags and keep weight evenly distributed. Avoid overloading one side, which can cause the saddle to lean and fatigue the horse. For personal items such as your cell phone, lip balm or car keys, wear a fanny pack or keep them on your person so they remain accessible if you become separated from your horse.

Essentials to Pack

Your packing list depends on the length of your ride, but common trail‑riding essentials include water, food, a first‑aid kit, a map or GPS device, insect repellent, a pocket knife, wet wipes, rain gear and survival items like matches and an emergency blanket. A rope halter and lead rope can serve as insurance in case something happens to your bridle. For longer rides, include extra clothing and gloves, hoof boots, duct tape and vet bandages to deal with equine injuries.

Prepare Your Horse

Saddlebag use should be introduced gradually. Before a ride, let your horse see and smell the saddlebags; then attach them and lead the horse at a walk. Once the horse remains calm, progress to a trot and practice opening and closing the bags. Some saddlebags use hook‑and‑loop fasteners that make a ripping sound, so accustom your horse to that noise before mounting.

Choosing the Right Saddlebag

When selecting saddlebags, think about:

• Type of Riding – Short rides may require only a pommel or medicine bag, while longer trail rides call for both pommel and cantle bags
• Saddle Style – Western saddles have multiple D‑rings and a horn, making it easy to attach various bags. English saddles often work best with in‑pad pouches or smaller bags.
• Material & Durability – Choose nylon or waxed cloth for lightweight, weather‑resistant performance or leather for a classic, long‑lasting look.
• Capacity & Organisation – Consider the number of compartments and whether the bag offers insulated sections for food and water.

Budget also matters: small pommel bags are generally cheaper than large, insulated cantle bags. Investing in a quality bag ensures comfort for both you and your horse and avoids frequent replacements.

Caring for Your Saddlebags

Proper maintenance prolongs the life of your saddlebags:

• Nylon and Canvas - Brush off dirt after each ride and wipe with a damp cloth. Mild soap can be used for stubborn stains. Allow bags to dry thoroughly before storing.
• Waxed Oilskin - Clean with a soft brush and re‑wax periodically to maintain waterproofing. Avoid machine washing, which removes the wax finish.
• Leather - Wipe dust with a dry cloth after every ride and condition the leather occasionally to prevent cracking. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

When not in use, stuff bags with paper or towels to help them retain their shape. Inspect straps, buckles and zippers regularly so you can repair minor problems before they become major.

Modern Innovations and Alternatives

Traditional saddlebags remain indispensable for trail rides, but innovations now offer new ways to transport gear. For example, saddle backpacks allow riders to carry their saddle and tack off the horse. Durousset’s Le Galop Saddle Backpack – Blue uses water‑resistant nylon and YKK zippers for durability and is sized to fit most English and dressage saddles. The L’étalon Saddle Backpack - Orange is a handcrafted leather piece featuring precise stitching and custom sizing, bridging heritage craftsmanship with modern functionality.

Durousset also offers accessories that complement riding gear. The Durousset Signature Cap is a premium hat with an embroidered logo and adjustable clasp. While not a saddlebag, it adds a touch of refinement and protects riders from the sun. These curated pieces illustrate how the Durousset brand merges timeless design with practical innovation.