La Scafarda is literally the Italian word for the working cavalry saddle. The origins of this saddle come from the military. After the 2nd World War, the style of saddle changed but the saddles remain in use for the cowboys as they have proved to be the most comfortable on long rides over rough terrain.

These saddles were in popular use from the 1920s when the Military vets in Grosseto started to use them. From that time until now they are still made individually by hand.

In fact, these saddles are less ‘professional’ but more versatile than that of the Maremma saddle. It is more comfortable and harder wearing than the rough wooden saddles of old, made first with cowhide with padded cushions and then protected with another layer of leather.

It is the saddle most used by the Maremma Cowboy. You can still find specialists that make these saddles all around the Grosseto area. Their comfort and reliability have earned them great respect in the Working and Trekking guides, a market that is steadily growing.

... a horseback vacation is not a race,
but a freeing of the soul and spirit by living with nature.

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