About
About our establishment
In 2003 Len invented a weight distributing system in a Saddle-pad “The PROTECTOR”.
It was later patented and has been improving the performance and comfort of horses & Mules
throughout the equine industry. We’re all about mules, mule riding, and the folks who live and breathe this unique way of life. We’ve got one thing figured out – mules are more than just animals; they’re our companions, our partners, and our adventure buddies.
Mules are special. They’ve got a personality that’s a lot different from your average horse. They’re loyal, sturdy, and have a knack for getting you through the toughest of terrains. Whether you’re out on a trail, doing some ranch work, or just enjoying a leisurely ride, mules make it all the more enjoyable.
Our founder, Len Brown, knows this better than anyone. His saddle making journey began in 1982 with an epic 3,000-mile Pack trip, living outdoors for 8 months with 5 horses of all sizes. No Cell phones, No support vehicles, shoeing himself, living off the land and getting supplies as they went thru a town.
Living outdoors with two riding horses and three packhorses. He quickly realized that the gear available just didn’t cut it for the rugged lifestyle he’d chosen. So, he did what any true mule enthusiast would do – he crafted his own saddles, gear, and everything else needed for a life in the saddle. Len’s journey in 1982 was more than just a trip; it was a life-changing experience that still lives within us today. It was the spark that ignited “The Mule Underground.”
The Protector Pad & Born Mule Saddle: A Game-Changer for Mule Riders
Len’s commitment to enhancing the mule riding experience led to the birth of the BORN MULE Saddle. This innovative saddle revolutionized the way mule riders approached their rides. With the exclusive tree design and a focus on Mule Comfort the BORN Mule Saddle became an instant hit among the mule riding community.
But innovation doesn’t come without its share of challenges. Len’s relentless pursuit of perfection led to several iterations and patents to ensure the Protector’s patented weight distribution in a Pad could withstand the demands of mule riding. The result? A Pad that mule riders order to improve their existing saddles.
Mission Statement
The Mule Underground is more than just a saddle company; it’s a community of like-minded mule riders who understand the joy and challenges of mule riding. We’re here to provide you with top-quality saddles and gear, tailored specifically for mules and their riders. Our commitment is unwavering, and our passion for mules is at the core of everything we do.
Mule 101: By Len Brown
The Mule Dilemma: White Hair and Saddle Discomfort
Mules, those resilient and strong-willed companions, face their unique set of challenges when it comes to saddles. One of the most common issues is the appearance of white hair on their backs. While it may seem like a minor cosmetic concern, it’s often a clear indicator of a more significant problem.
Why Does White Hair Occur?
The appearance of white hair is a telltale sign that the mule’s saddle is not fitting properly. It happens when the saddle rocks off the center, causing undue friction and pressure on the mule’s back. This rocking motion can lead to blisters and sores, causing not only discomfort but also potential long-term issues for your beloved mule.
The Mule’s Saddle Deserves Special Attention
Mules are known for their individuality, and their backs come in all shapes and sizes. This uniqueness calls for saddles that are designed to work for their comfort and well-being. Today’s trees are too curved front to rear, to flat an angle & rock or roll when ridden, which doesn’t work when it comes to Mules. Tree makers trying to flatten or straighten the bars for mule trees is not enough. It takes extra thick lumber, intensive pattern work to straighten bars via more twist from rear to front. The NO-PINCH-TWIST bars that Len designed are up to the task. He then thickened the bars in the rear to provide the ultimate spine clearance. So long as the tree is short enough for said Mule the Black Mesa Saddle will go from Mule to Mule. A horse saddle works poorly on a Mule, Len’s Mule Bar saddle can be used on Horses as well.
