Horse-mounted saddlebags are typically available in leather and nylon. Leather saddlebags are durable but heavy and require saddle soaping--waxing leather surfaces that contact horseflesh to prevent chafing. Equestrian saddlebags typically mount with straps or ties to the rear of a saddle. Saddlebag horse loading is designed for weekend riding and the horses are commonly overloaded, according to the Long Riders’ Guild, an association of horse riders that plans and executes long loaded horse-mounted journeys around the globe.
Most motorcycles are designed to accept bolt-mounted saddlebags though some motorcycle saddlebags are designed similarly to the throw-over style of equestrian bags. Some motorcycle saddlebags even have quick release saddle mounts designed into attachment points. Many motorcycle companies manufacture both leather and nylon, including waterproofed nylon, saddlebags for motorcycle touring and luggage capacity expansion. Motorcycle saddlebags need ample clearance from mufflers, chains, tires and brakes, and not all saddlebags work with all motorcycles, reports Motorcycle Cruiser Magazine.
Bicycle mounted saddlebags are known as panniers in the cycling industry. Pannier derives from “panier,” the French word for breadbasket, reports the late Sheldon Brown, noted bicycle authority. Bicycle mounted saddlebags typically mount to or lay over a rear bicycle rack attached to the frame at the rear axle and just under the bicycle saddle. Most bicycle saddlebags are manufactured of water- resistant or waterproof nylon, but several companies manufacture leather or cloth bicycle saddlebags.
