Minor Surface Cracks on a Fender

[cnaun]

I have a lovely Vic Bennett reining saddle. For those from AB, Canada, they know he is one of the finest custom saddle makers in the business. The saddle was abused and left to sit with no oil (before I got it!!) and probably had the fenders folded at some point because some surface cracks have appeared on one of them. I'm open to replacing the fenders with Vic, but was curious if there was a good way to safely repair them instead. I've been oiling the saddle as regularly as I can since I bought it a couple years ago, but what's done is done. Is there a way to scuff/sand the cracks down, then reseal the leather?? Other suggestions on how to stop these cracks from spreading/worsening/looking bad?

[Goldshot Ron]

Once the leather has developed those cracks, all you can do is put a conditioner on the leather.  You said you have oiled the fenders, so there is not much else I could recommend.  Also, I would not sand the leather.   If the cracks are hard and rub your ankle or shin, you could get some different designed stirrup hobbles the would cover that area.  For new fenders and leathers the price will vary, but could easily be around $175.00 for a set.  A good usable saddle is always worth a couple hundred to repair.