About Circle Y

The Circle Y Saddle Craftsmen

At the heart of Circle Y’s success is not just a brand, but a family — the dedicated craftsmen and women who pour their passion into every saddle. With more than 1,500 combined years of experience, our team carries forward a tradition of artistry, innovation, and pride that defines Circle Y.

“Our greatest achievement isn’t simply the decades we’ve been in business — it’s the extraordinary people who build our saddles,” says Mark Jemelka, Chief Operating Officer of Circle Y Saddles. “The longevity of our workforce speaks volumes about the integrity of the brand and the pride our makers take in their craft.”

From generation to generation, the Circle Y makers embody the spirit of Yoakum, Texas — a community bound by heritage, hard work, and a shared commitment to creating the finest saddles in America.

A Legacy that rides on

When Steve Tucker and his business partner, Darrell Nephew, acquired Circle Y Saddles in 2003, he brought not only years of saddle-making expertise but also a vision to elevate the brand while staying true to its Texas roots. Already respected as the founder of Tucker Trail Saddles — celebrated for their unmatched comfort over long hours in the saddle — Steve guided Circle Y with the same dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and the rider’s experience. Under his leadership, Circle Y flourished, earning the trust of riders across disciplines and solidifying its place as America’s leading saddle brand.

Steve’s influence reached far beyond the shop floor. Known for his wisdom, generosity, and faith, he eagerly shared his knowledge and invested in others. To him, saddlemaking was more than a craft — it was a way to serve riders, foster community, and carry forward traditions worth preserving.

In 2021, tragedy struck when Steve’s life was cut short in a plane crash — a profound loss to Circle Y, the Tucker brand, and the entire Yoakum community. Yet even in sorrow, his legacy endures. His deepest passion was his love for Christ, and knowing he is with Him brings peace to those who cherished him.

Today, we honor Steve Tucker by carrying on the mission he lived for: building saddles of excellence, innovation, and integrity. Every saddle we craft reflects not only the skill of our makers but also the enduring vision of a leader whose faith, passion, and spirit continue to ride with us.

Carrying Forward the Welhausen Legacy

In 2023, Circle Y entered a new chapter when it was acquired by nearby Kaspar Companies — a fifth-generation family-owned business led by the descendants of the Welhausen family, who first founded Tex Tan in 1919. This transition ensured that Circle Y’s heritage, craftsmanship, and community spirit remained firmly rooted in Yoakum, Texas.

The legacy grew even stronger in 2024 when Kaspar Companies and Circle Y proudly repurchased the Tex Tan name, reuniting these two historic Yoakum brands. Together, they cemented the enduring “Welhausen Legacy” in Lavaca County and reaffirmed their shared commitment to excellence in saddlemaking.

But Circle Y’s vision extends beyond saddles. In partnership with the Town of Yoakum, the company is helping renovate the Yoakum Rodeo Arena to draw larger crowds and breathe new life into local rodeo events. It’s another way Circle Y remains true to its roots — standing beside the riders, ranchers, and neighbors who have supported them for generations.

Where tradition meets innovation

Circle Y continues to shape the future of Western saddlery by blending timeless craftsmanship with forward-looking design. Our saddles and tack are not only built with heritage and care, but also with an eye toward innovation, style, and the evolving needs of today’s riders.

Through ongoing research and hands-on experience, we’ve become leaders in saddle fit. Our Flex2® tree technology, combined with fitting hundreds of horses each year, has given us unmatched insight into creating saddles that balance comfort, performance, and durability. This dedication extends beyond the product itself — we are passionate about educating riders, empowering them with knowledge that ensures both horse and rider enjoy the best possible experience together.

At Circle Y, every innovation serves a greater purpose: to strengthen the bond between horse and rider and to elevate the ride for generations to come.