Exposing the Truth: Hilason Saddle Review

It is an exciting moment for any rider to step into a tack shop for a new saddle. Many times, they get confused about which brand in the market is suitable for them.

There are many things to consider before buying a saddle it should be affordable and have good quality. When it comes to comfert and performance a well-fitted saddle with a better grip can make all the difference.

After reading the article, you will get to know everything about the Hilason brand, from their prices, and quality, to my personal experience of using a Hilason saddle.

So, whether you are a new rider or a casual rider, this article will help you find the best gear for your horse.

Hailson Brand Overview

Over time, Hilason has expanded its product line by offering a wide range of riding disciplines and equine events.

As a new brand, they quickly started to gain recognition in the equestrian market because of their affordable prices. In saddle manufacturing, they have focused on creating functional saddles without compromising too much on feel.

In the equestrian world, they are known for their affordable cost. If you are a beginner or a seasoned rider with a low budget, then you can buy a Hilason saddle at an affordable price.

Types of Saddles Offered by Hilason

Hilason does offer a wide lineup, which is one of its few strong points:

• Western Saddles: They offer Western saddles that are built with a deep seat and high cantles. These eye-catching saddles are designed for trail riding, barrel racing, and performance. But they often come with concerns like broken D-rings and cheap breast collar attachments.
• English Saddles: They offer English saddles that are lightweight, with a low cantle and close-contact design. These saddles are ideal for jumping or dressage, but users complain that the synthetic bends and hardware don’t always hold up over time.
• Treeless Saddles: Treeless saddles provide flexibility and conform to the horse’s back. However, some models are so stiff they feel like treed saddles, with pommel angles so wide they require wedges just to fit properly.

Despite the variety, experienced riders often criticize Hilason for misleading marketing around its treeless line and lack of truly reliable engineering.

The Pros: Why Some Riders Still Choose Hilason

Hilason saddles do appeal to certain riders, especially those just starting out or buying on a strict budget.

• Affordable: At $400–$600, they’re a fraction of the cost compared to Stubben or Wintec.
• Lightweight Build: Easier for kids or older riders to lift and tack up.
• Decent Comfort (Initially): Some report the seats are firm but manageable for short trail rides.
• Beginner-Friendly Options: Pre-sized, ready-to-ride saddles that don’t need much setup.

These qualities make Hilason an appealing “starter saddle,” but it is not the perfect saddle to buy.

The Cons: What Real Riders Are Saying

Let’s get real—many riders who actually used Hilason saddles have shared frustrating experiences:

• Poor Craftsmanship: Cantles sewn on crooked. Uneven stirrup leathers. Screws popping out mid-ride.
• Durability Issues: Saddles falling apart within months. Broken stirrups, ripped D-rings, and cracked leather.
• Discomfort for Horses: Ill-fitted saddles causing back soreness. Pressure points from uneven padding.
• Fake Finishes: Instead of true stained leather, many saddles come painted. Scratches reveal raw, untreated hide.
• Treeless Trouble: Misrepresented treeless designs with rigid seats and awkward angles, requiring wedges and high-end pads just to make them usable.

As one reviewer put it, “Using a cheap saddle on your horse is like asking them to run a race in flip-flops.”

Expert Opinion: Can a Cheap Saddle Be Good?

Professionals on horse forums and trail-riding communities agree: it’s often better to buy a used quality saddle than a brand-new cheap one.

Used models from Circle Y, Wintec, or Tucker often hold up for years and provide much better fit and support—for both horse and rider.

While Hilason’s low price is tempting, it may end up costing more in vet bills, saddle pad upgrades, or replacements in the long run.

Customer Review Breakdown

Here’s a quick snapshot of how real users view Hilason:

Positive Feedback:

• Budget-friendly
• Comfortable at first
• Nice-looking design
• Fast customer service

Negative Feedback:

• Lopsided cantles
• Flaky paint finish
• Stirrups snapping mid-ride
• Back pain in horses
• Weak D-rings and breastcollars

Pros vs. Cons Table (Based on Forums & Reviews)

Hilason vs. Other Brands (Side-by-Side Chart)

Should You Buy a Hilason Saddle? Honest Verdict

Hilason might work if:

• You’re a beginner looking for a temporary, budget-friendly saddle.
• You need a lightweight option for an occasional ride.
• You plan to upgrade later.

Hilason might NOT be for you if:

• You ride daily or professionally.
• You value quality craftsmanship and longevity.
• You want your horse to stay happy, pain-free, and properly fitted.

Better Alternatives for the Same Budget

If your budget is under $700, consider these alternatives:

• Used Circle Y or Tex Tan: More reliable, even if older.
• Wintec Synthetic Saddles: Durable and comfortable with better warranties.
• Abetta Saddles: Lightweight, affordable, and proven for trail use.

Tips for Secondhand Shopping:

• Always inspect the saddle tree
• Ask for close-up photos of wear and stitching
• Test ride if possible

Final Thoughts

Bottom line? Your horse deserves better. If you must go budget, go smart—buy used from a reliable brand.

Still want to try Hilason? Pair it with a premium pad and set realistic expectations.

Got your own Hilason story? Drop it in the comments and share your experience with fellow riders!

References

Reddit Review on Hailson Saddles

Review on Amazon

Horse Forum Review on Hailson Saddles