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Your husband is experiencing a phase that most male riders go through.
If he can hang in there (no pun intended), the problem can be delt with.
First, if a male is riding well, that is in a centered and balanced
position, then the anatomical parts at issue do not bear weight. So,
your husband should consider some lessons from someone trained in
dressage, PBM, centered riding (sally swift), etc.
Next, as for undergarmets, there are a number of options. Jocky makes a
sports brief that is also an athletic supporter. Some men (who usually
won't admit it) wear women's pantyhose under their pants. Many of us
wear running tights which do not have thick, overlapping seams that
create high abrasion points. Recently we tried SaddleBums at the PanAm
and were pleasantly surprised-- they felt great even though there was a
layer of padding between body and saddle.
Finally, and maybe most importantly to you, a western saddle is often
more difficult to ride at a trot for hours at a time. Our experience
has been that the less expensive saddles also create problems for both
rider and horse. Perhaps you can purchase a higher quality sadlle on
trial (ie with a right of return). If not, then try to borrow one. In
any case, deal with the saddle problem ASAP before your spouse loses
interest.
One other idea for your consideration. Instructors such as Donna
Snyder-Smith routinely host 3 and 4 day endurance riding seminars. The
cost is usually very reasonable. During the last one we attended we
switched horses and saddles daily. It was a great way to see what others
were doing and try new things in a controlled environment.
If you want, feel free to have your husband call me. I'm in the AERC
directory. Good Luck and Comfortable Trails.
Ramey Peticolas-Stroud
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