“Patrac”
Alongside the whip ("karikás ostor"), another distinctive tool associated primarily with herdsmen, especially the "csikós," is the patrac, or more commonly known as the csikós saddle. Interestingly, it is not a true saddle but rather a frameless piece of felt or cloth, sometimes covered with leather. It has no cinch strap, only two stirrups.
The patrac originates from a time when county authorities strictly prohibited shepherds from using saddles. Its simple design allows it to be easily placed on or removed from the horse’s back. A key advantage is that if the rider falls off the horse, their foot will not get caught in the stirrup, as the patrac will come off the horse along with the rider.
When the csikós guards the herd on foot, he slings the patrac over his shoulder, and when resting, he uses it as a pillow.
