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Circle Y Saddles — Tack (If you want expert craftsmanship and only the finest materials in your saddle,…)

Circle Y Saddles

If you want expert craftsmanship and only the finest materials in your saddle, make sure you buy

Want a handcrafted saddle from America's leading 60-year saddle brand?

Reviewed by Ann Pruitt, InfoHorse.com · Updated June 2026
Circle Y Pioneer Flex2 pleasure trail saddle with tooled leather
Circle Y Pioneer Flex2 pleasure trail saddle with tooled leather
Handcrafted Saddles by Circle Y Saddles
If you want expert craftsmanship and only the finest materials in your saddle, make sure you buy a saddle through Circle Y Saddles!


About Circle Y Saddles

Circle Y Saddles, Inc., America’s Leading Saddle Brand, celebrated 50 years of saddle making in 2010. Circle Y began manufacturing in the small town of Yoakum, Texas, in 1960. With a vision to build the finest product possible, founder Leland Tucker created Circle Y from the ground up. The company continued to be family operated until 2000. In 2003 under new ownership Circle Y has rekindled its founder’s commitment to be the world’s leader in product design, innovation and quality.

The company built its reputation on the innovation and fine craftsmanship of its products, becoming the standard of quality in the industry. Circle Y attributes the success of the brand to its family of employees. With a deep sense of community and pride in their work, the Circle Y team boasts a combined total of over 1,500 years of experience.

Still located in Yoakum, Texas, Circle Y opened new doors in January of 2010 with a relocation to a single building facility. Previously operating from several separate buildings in downtown Yoakum, the move will allow the company to recognize greater efficiencies. With a commitment to continuous improvement of process and product, Circle Y strives to better serve its customers for the next 50 years.

Today, Circle Y Saddles, Inc. is America’s leading saddle brand and continues to produce high quality saddles and tack with the heritage and tradition the company was founded on. Establishing this with stylish and innovative products, Circle Y products reflect the current trends in design and that are ahead of the industry in technology.

Our Saddles
Circle Y makes saddles for many western disciplines. Showing, reining, trail riding, Arabian, team penning, cutting, roping, barrel racing, and ranch work saddles of many designs give riders several choices to meet their needs. Saddles and tack are made from the finest leathers available in the industry. Hardware, silver trim and finishes are of the highest quality. Experienced craftsmen build each saddle with the same care found in Circle Y products from the beginning. Here are some of the many saddles we offer:

  • Alpine Flex2® Trail-The Alpine Flex2(R) trail combines all the great Flex2(R) features in a lightweight trail saddle with wide swells and a 5" cantle for a secure seat. 3-way Adjustable In-skirt rigging allows you to rig the saddle for the best fit for your horse. The Neo-Shock(TM) skirt absorbs shock and incorporates the Tunnel Skirt(TM) design to eliminate rubbing and pressure on the horse's spine. Impact Foam(TM) viscoelastic seat conforms to the rider for all-day comfort. Softee(R) seat jockeys and fenders provide a "ready to ride" feel with ErgoBalance(TM) stirrups to decrease joint fatigue and promote balanced riding. And the Flex2(R) tree design conforms to the horse, even while in motion, to provide great fit and comfort for the horse while providing even weight distribution and rider support.
  • SupeRide™ Yosemite Gaited Trail-The new SupeRide(TM) Yosemite Gaited Trail saddle is packed with features for your gaited horse. A Supracor(R) lined skirt provides superior comfort by distributing weight, minimizing pressure points, and conforming to your horse's unique conformation. The Easy-Fit(TM) Ralide tree is slightly flexible for freedom of movement for the horse. The Tunnel Skirt(TM) design alleviates pressure on the horses's spine. 3-Way In-Skirt rigging allows multiple rigging options. Softee(R) seat jockeys and fenders and ErgoBalance(TM) stirrups provide a ready to ride feel and decrease joint fatigue for the rider.
  • Powder River All-Around Trail-The Powder River All-Around trail saddle features a fiberglass reinforced wood tree, perfect for ponying and dragging logs. The close contact skirt design keeps you close to the horse for precise cues. 3-Way In-Skirt riggings allows multiple rigging options. The Tunnel Skirt(TM) design alleviates pressure on the horse's spine. Preshaped Softee(R) seat jockeys and fenders require no break-in for "ready to ride" comfort. Flank cinch set included.
  • Lisa Lockhart Dynamo Barrel - Designed with Lisa Lockhart, 4-time NFR qualifier barrel racer and Canadian Finals Champion, the Lockhart Dynamo Flex2(R) barrel saddle allows your horse freedom of movement to perform at his best. The Flex2(R) tree conforms to the horse, with a low-profile fit, keeping you close to the horse for great control and communication. The dished seat and 4 1/2" cantle keep you securely in position. The unique Grip-Rite(TM) close contact skirt liner provides grip for a no-slip fit. Pre-twisted stirrup fenders and rubber grip aluminum stirrups keep your feet secure.

What Kind Of Warranty Do Circle Y Saddles Have?

Circle Y saddles have a ten year tree warranty, a one year parts warranty, and a one year silver warranty. Saddles have a warranty registration card attached which contain a complete explanation of the warranties. All warranties apply to the original purchaser. Saddles manufactured before January 1, 2004 have a five-year tree warranty.

What Do Customers Say About Circle Y Saddles?

Dear Circle Y,

I am thrilled with the effects of the saddle for both Candy and me. The saddle fits her beautifully--several trainers have said that the fit is great for her. What I didn't expect were the benefits for me. My knees no longer feel "the torque," since the stirrups are turned. Also, I can ride much longer due to the comfort of the ride. We have been on trail rides where we have been the only pair still ready to go after several hours because we both are comfortable!

The bonus is the remarks on the beauty of the leather and the tooling. So, hey, we feel good and we look good!

Thank you for the opportunity to purchase the saddle.
Bobbie Jo W.

Dear Circle Y,

I love my Circle Y so much I would rather walk than use another brand.
Aaron M.

I have been riding in Circle Y Saddles for over 20 years and love my Flex 2 Saddle that I have now
Ann Pruitt-- InfoHorse.com

Order Your Circle Y Saddle Today!

Once you sit in a Circle Y, you just don't want to settle for less. Many tack stores throughout the country carry Circle Y because of their tremendous popularity and resale value. Popular Horse Catalogs like Jeffers, ValleyVet, StatelineTack and Horse.com carry Circle Y too. You are also welcome to call us and we'll work with you directly!




Circle Y Pioneer Flex2 pleasure trail saddle with tooled leather
Circle Y Pioneer Flex2 pleasure trail saddle with tooled leather

What makes a Circle Y saddle different?

Circle Y Saddles, Inc. builds every saddle by hand in Yoakum, Texas, the same small town where founder Leland Tucker started the company in 1960 on the belief that the saddle industry could use finer products. More than six decades later the brand spans virtually every Western discipline, with dedicated lines for trail riding, barrel racing, roping, cutting, penning, reining, ranch work, showing, gaited horses, and Arabians. The hallmark across the range is the patented Flex2 tree, a comfort-first design engineered to fit a broad selection of horses rather than a single back shape.

Circle Y Alpine Flex2 trail saddle handcrafted in Yoakum Texas
Circle Y Alpine Flex2 trail saddle handcrafted in Yoakum Texas

How does the patented Flex2 tree work?

The Flex2 combines a rigid ground seat with a dual-bar system that places stability and flexibility exactly where each is needed. High-density bars carry the rider and distribute weight evenly, while low-density bars conform to the horse's back and allow freedom of movement, so the saddle moves with the horse without losing its structure. The entire tree is finish-coated in DURAhide covering that adds strength while keeping out moisture and the elements, extending the working life of the saddle. Because Circle Y engineers their years of hand-crafted ground-seat experience directly into the tree, the rider gets a comfortable, balanced platform from the first ride.

Circle Y Virginia Flex2 endurance gaited trail saddle
Circle Y Virginia Flex2 endurance gaited trail saddle

What leather and materials does Circle Y use?

Circle Y selects fine-quality materials throughout, from the leather to the silver trim. Their Softee leather is revolutionary real, full-grain leather with a genuinely broken-in feel, and Softee seat jockeys and fenders arrive ready to ride right out of the box while helping to minimize knee and ankle strain. Many trail and Flex2 models add an impact-foam seat for cushioning on long rides and EBS Ergo Balance Stirrups that reduce knee and ankle fatigue in the saddle.

Circle Y Lady trail saddle in tooled Western leather
Circle Y Lady trail saddle in tooled Western leather

Which features keep the horse comfortable?

Comfort for the horse is built into the construction, not added on. Models such as the Omaha Flex2 use a tunnel-skirt design that opens down the middle of the saddle so the horse's spine gets increased air flow, reducing friction and pressure points. A 3-way adjustable in-skirt rigging and multiple tree-width options let riders dial in the fit, and the conforming Flex2 bars accommodate varied back shapes as if the tree were custom-made. The Omaha, for example, runs roughly 29 pounds with a 26-inch round skirt and shell-border tooling in dark oil antique, regular oil, walnut, or black.

Who rides Circle Y, and what models should I look at?
The line is built for everyone from the competitive rider to the casual trail enthusiast and everyone in between. Trail favorites include the Omaha, Topeka, Salt River, Alpine, Pioneer, Sunflower, and South Mountain, alongside signature collaborations with horsemen like Julie Goodnight (Cascade, Teton, Wind River, Monarch) and the Josey barrel-racing heritage with champions Martha Josey and Kelly Kaminski. All-around options such as the Comal, Lolita, Team Camarillo, and Josey Patriot round out the offering. Circle Y is today recognized as America's leading saddle brand.

What warranty backs a Circle Y saddle?

Circle Y stands behind its workmanship with a tiered warranty. Saddle trees are warranted free from defects in workmanship and materials for five full years from the date of purchase when used in a normal manner for the intended purpose; all other saddle parts are warranted for forty-five days, and saddle silver for one year. The Warranty Card attached to every saddle must be completed by the purchaser and forwarded to Circle Y within 30 days to secure coverage, and the warranty is non-transferable.
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The Solution Section (FAQ)
Who is Circle Y Saddles?

Per Circle Y Saddles, Inc.: America's Leading Saddle Brand. Celebrated 50 years of saddle making in 2010. Began manufacturing in the small town of Yoakum, Texas, in 1960. Founded by Leland Tucker with a vision to build the finest product possible.

The company was family-operated until 2000. In 2003 under new ownership, Circle Y rekindled its founder's commitment to be the world's leader in product design, innovation, and quality.

Why is Circle Y still in Yoakum?

Per Circle Y: still located in Yoakum, Texas. In January 2010, Circle Y opened new doors with a relocation to a single building facility from several separate buildings in downtown Yoakum — recognizing greater efficiencies.

What's the team's experience profile?

Per Circle Y: company attributes the success of the brand to its family of employees. The Circle Y team boasts a combined total of over 1,500 years of experience. Deep sense of community and pride in their work.

Which disciplines does Circle Y serve?

Per Circle Y: makes saddles for many western disciplines, including:

  • Showing
  • Reining
  • Trail riding
  • Arabian
  • Team penning
  • Cutting
  • Roping
  • Barrel racing
  • Ranch work
What about materials and hardware?

Per Circle Y: saddles and tack are made from the finest leathers available in the industry. Hardware, silver trim, and finishes are of the highest quality. Each saddle is built by experienced craftsmen.

How do I order?

Per Circle Y Saddles, Inc.: Phone 800-531-3600, email [email protected], website http://circley.com/about.shtml. Pricing varies by saddle style, leather, and customization; pricing as quoted is subject to change due to economic factors and material-market conditions — confirm current pricing with Circle Y directly.

Where are Circle Y saddles made?
Every Circle Y saddle is handcrafted in Yoakum, Texas, a small town about two hours east of San Antonio. The company has manufactured there since 1960, and its saddles and trees are built by a team of expert craftsmen with decades of experience. This U.S.-made, hand-built heritage is central to the brand's identity as America's leading saddle brand.
Who founded Circle Y Saddles and when?
Circle Y was founded in 1960 by Leland Tucker, who believed the saddle industry could use finer products. It grew from a family operation into one of the most distinguished saddle manufacturers in the world. The company celebrated 50 years of saddle making in 2010 and continues to operate from its original Yoakum, Texas home.
What is the Flex2 tree?
The Flex2 is Circle Y's patented saddle tree, engineered to fit a broad selection of horses rather than one back shape. It pairs a rigid ground seat with a dual-bar system: high-density bars provide structural support and even weight distribution, while low-density bars conform to the horse's back and allow freedom of movement. The result is a tree that flexes where the horse needs it while keeping the rider stable and supported.
What is DURAhide and why does it matter?
DURAhide is the protective coating that finishes the Flex2 tree. It adds strength to the tree while keeping out moisture and the elements, which extends the working life of the saddle. Because the tree is the structural heart of any saddle, this coating helps protect a rider's investment over years of use.
What is Softee leather?
Softee leather is Circle Y's real, full-grain leather that arrives with a genuinely broken-in feel. Softee seat jockeys and fenders are ready to ride right out of the box, so there is no long break-in period. The supple feel also helps minimize knee and ankle strain during long rides.
What types of saddles does Circle Y make?
Circle Y builds saddles for nearly every Western discipline, including trail riding, barrel racing, roping, cutting, penning, reining, ranch work, and showing. There are also dedicated lines for gaited horses and Arabians, plus versatile all-around saddles. Beyond saddles, the company produces matching tack such as breast collars, bridles, and reins.
What warranty comes with a Circle Y saddle?
Circle Y warrants its saddle trees against defects in workmanship and materials for five full years from the date of purchase when used normally for the intended purpose. All other saddle parts are warranted for forty-five days, and saddle silver for one year. The included Warranty Card must be completed and mailed to Circle Y within 30 days to secure coverage, and the warranty is non-transferable.
How much does a Circle Y trail saddle weigh?
Weight varies by model, but the popular Omaha Flex2 trail saddle weighs approximately 29 pounds. The Flex2 tree is designed to be lightweight yet sturdy, balancing durability for the rider with a fit that conforms to the horse. Lighter weight makes a real difference on long trail and endurance rides.
What is the tunnel skirt design?
The tunnel skirt is open down the middle of the saddle so the horse's spine gets increased air flow. This design reduces friction and pressure points along the back, helping keep the horse comfortable on long outings. It appears on trail models such as the Omaha Flex2.
Can I adjust the fit of a Circle Y saddle to my horse?
Yes. Many Circle Y models offer multiple tree-width options and a 3-way adjustable in-skirt rigging so you can tailor the fit to your horse and discipline. Combined with the conforming Flex2 bars, this lets one saddle fit a range of horses as if it were custom-made. Choosing the correct tree width remains important for a proper fit.
What are EBS Ergo Balance Stirrups?
EBS Ergo Balance Stirrups are a comfort feature found on many Circle Y Flex2 saddles. They are designed to decrease knee and ankle fatigue while riding by encouraging a more natural, balanced foot position. Paired with an impact-foam seat, they make extended time in the saddle more comfortable.
Which Circle Y models are best for trail riding?
Top trail choices include the Omaha, Topeka, Salt River, Alpine, Pioneer, Sunflower, and South Mountain Flex2 saddles, among many others. There are also endurance and gaited options like the Virginia Flex2 Endurance Trail Gaiter saddle. The lineup is deep enough to match almost any trail rider's seat size, color, and budget.
Does Circle Y partner with professional riders?
Yes. Circle Y collaborates with respected horsemen and champions, including clinician Julie Goodnight, whose signature line features the Cascade, Teton, Wind River, and Monarch models. The brand's Josey barrel-racing heritage is backed by champions such as Martha Josey and 2005 world champion Kelly Kaminski. These partnerships shape purpose-built designs for specific disciplines.
What seat sizes and colors are available?
Circle Y offers a wide range of seat sizes across its models, with all-around and trail saddles commonly spanning roughly 12 to 17 inches depending on the line. Leather colors typically include dark oil antique, regular oil, walnut, and black. Availability of sizes, widths, and colors varies by specific model.
Who is a Circle Y saddle right for?
Circle Y saddles suit the competitive rider, the casual trail enthusiast, and everyone in between. The breadth of the line, from barrel and reining to ranch and gaited, means there is a purpose-built option for most disciplines and rider budgets. The shared Flex2 comfort technology and U.S. handcrafting run through the entire range.
How do I buy a Circle Y saddle?
Circle Y saddles are sold through a wide network of authorized Western tack retailers and online saddle shops, where you can compare models, seat sizes, tree widths, and current pricing. All-around models, for example, are commonly listed in the roughly $2,799 to $4,399 range. Because fit matters, it is worth confirming the correct tree width and seat size before purchase.
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Ann Pruitt
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