Shalisha Alston

Barrel racing is one of the most exciting speed events in the horse world. For me, there’s nothing quite like the rush of guiding a quick, responsive horse around three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern and racing the clock. But if you’re just getting started, choosing the right horse breed may leave you scratching your … Read more

A barrel racing saddle does a lot more than just keep me in the seat. It has a direct effect on how my horse performs in speed events. I often hear people ask if a lighter saddle really makes a noticeable difference. My answer comes from experience, a lot of trial runs, and some solid … Read more

Western saddles are a pretty big investment and keeping them in great shape is worth every ounce of care – whether you’re working cattle, racing barrels, or just out for a weekend ride. Western saddles especially can go through a lot, since they’re built for both work and comfort. But daily use and simple mistakes … Read more

Getting the right barrel racing saddle fit can make or break your riding experience. Not only can it impact your horse’s comfort, but it can also influence your performance in the arena. Being thoughtful about how a barrel racing saddle fits both your horse and you as the rider is key for speed, safety, and … Read more

Barrel racing isn’t just about fast runs and tight turns. it’s also about having the right saddle beneath you. With a saddle designed specifically for barrel racing, you’ll stay secure, keep your horse comfortable, and pull off smooth performances whether you’re new to the sport or battling for the top times. After years around the … Read more

If you’re into trail riding, especially on steep and rugged paths, having the right saddle can make or break your ride. For me, switching to a lightweight trail saddle was a game changer on hilly terrain. The right saddle helps your horse move more freely, lightens their load (literally), and keeps both of you comfortable … Read more

Long-distance trail riding asks a lot from both horse and rider, and choosing the right saddle is one of the most important decisions I make for endurance events. That’s because comfort, weight, and fit all play a major role in the wellbeing of my horse over hours (and sometimes days) on the trail. I’ve seen … Read more

Taking care of a western trail saddle keeps it comfortable, safe, and looking sharp whether you ride every weekend or only on special occasions. Saddles aren’t cheap, and even basic maintenance can really stretch out the years you’ll enjoy yours. I’ll walk through everything I do to protect both leather and synthetic western saddles, how … Read more

If you’re new to barrel racing, picking the right saddle is a pretty big deal. A barrel racing saddle isn’t just about looking good in the arena. Your barrel saddle affects your balance, your horse’s comfort, and how well you can ride those tight turns. The options can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just getting … Read more