What are some helpful hints for breaking in a new western saddle?

You have been given good information. Here is the most very very important information that you need to know. That new saddle needs to be well oiled. Use mink oil. Not saddle soap. The oil will soften up the leather, keep rain out, stops staining, and from cracking and rotting. Just put the oil on a rag and coat the saddle with it. If you use this saddle a lot? Oil the saddle once a year.