I would go for a used leather saddle. I don't like synthetic at all because it can break easier and can never match the quality of a good leather saddle. Something like a Steuben that is made well and taken care of can last 20 years. I got a Collegiate close contact in great condition for $200 on tacktrader.com I was able to bargain with the seller from $300 because she wasn't using it and just wanted to make some money off of it.