WHY WE CHOOSE KEVLAR®

In February of 2008, American Industrial Testing, an independent engineer, concluded some testing for Precision Saddle Tree, Inc. American found out that on average it took 866 lbs. more direct pressure to break our Kevlar® trees vs. our competitor's rawhide trees.

Test Methodology:
Performance testing was completed on five (5) rawhide trees and five (5) Kevlar® reinforced trees made by Precision Saddle Tree, Inc. The rawhide trees all had laminated fronts and horns were bolted on. The trees constructed by Precision Saddle Tree, Inc. were constructed without laminated fronts, horns were secured with stainless steel screws, reinforced with Kevlar®, and over-sprayed with DURAhide™.

Pressure was applied to the horn at a 60 degree angle (+/-) five degrees and continuously applied in a slow steady manner until each tree was destroyed.

The average breaking strength of the rawhide covered trees was 5,804 lbs based on consecutive loads of (6,263 - 7,400 - 3,750). The average breaking strength of the Kevlar® covered trees was 6,670 lbs based on consecutive loads of (6,760 - 7,650 - 5,600). All loads are reported in direct pounds of pressure.

See the official report of Kevlar® Performance testing here.


What is Kevlar®?        
Kevlar® is a polymide developed in the 1960s by Dupont. Assuming the same weight, Kevlar® is literally five times stronger than steel. Kevlar® fibers have 43 percent less density than fiberglass.  The impact, tear and penetration resistance is far superior to fiberglass.


At Precision Saddle Tree, we use Kevlar® because it allows for lighter, thinner bars which helps to improve the balance and relationship between horse and rider with improved strength.