huh...i just bought a synthetic saddle, and it was a lot cheaper than any semi-good quality leather saddle...now, it isn't a 'show saddle' but in any class (non pro, and only regional) that i show in, it will be accepted. (it's western) bridles are the same thing, you can get nylon brides that are really cheap (and pretty to boot
) however, I'm not sure how those are accepted in the show circuit.
I suppose if you are to get a real show saddle in synthetic, they would be maybe a little more than the leather saddles, but I don't think it's a major difference...
I have also seen very nice looking synthetic english saddles, but i really don't know much about that world (i tried to, but had to quit lessons when life got too crazy)
(oh, as for the debate, don't worry, I won't speak of it again
)
hmm...I'm gonna have to go look stuff up now
I'm very curious....