The Saddle Pocket is one of those simple things that I wonder how I managed without. It snaps onto the “D” rings of your saddle and is great for holding the odd things I like to carry with me on a ride — the check for my trainer, my cell phone, a hoof pick, my epi-pen (when the ground bees are out), benedryl, and more. It’s just the right size. Large enough to hold what I need but not clumsy.
It has an internal divider that allows you to keep things separate and a velcro closure on the flap that stays secure even when you’re galloping x-country. They are not leather (synthetic) which at first I didn’t like. However, they are virtually indestructible and require no cleaning. They are also quite waterproof. I’ve ridden out in the rain with one on my saddle and found it a handy place to store my glasses when they got too covered with rain drops to see.
I originally bought mine for foxhunting but now I use them on every ride. In fact, I like my Saddle Pocket so much that I bought a second one so that I don’t have to move it in between saddles. If you’re patient they come up on Tack of the Day for a very good price.
One word of warning. It’s a good idea to get your horse used to the sound of the velcro opening before you are riding. My horse jumped a mile the first time I opened my pocket. Now he just ignores it. I was originally concerned that it would bother my horse because it bounces slightly behind the saddle. It didn’t worry my horse at all, but that would definitely be something to check before taking off on a gallop! I know someone who attaches one to her breastplate straps in front of the saddle and that seems to work for her.
