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Post by dalesnfellfan on Apr 21, 2015 6:10:56 GMT -1
Connie will need a new saddle at some point this summer, my saddle fitter thinks about 8-12 weeks, she is currently in Spuds saddle while we see how much she is going to change as she gets fitter and muscles up, Its not a great fit but fits well enough so it's not doing her any harm, but not ideal long term.
I want to do some research this time rather than just settle for what the shop has got that fits in GP or VSD, and have asked my saddler to try and get a Wintec endurance saddle in to try.
I quite like the idea of an endurance saddle as I think they may give me more security, I like the look of the Reactor Panel saddles but they are mega expensive, but would also like to try something like the Heather Moffet FlexEE saddle.
What do you all use and what gives the most security? has anyone used an endurance saddle or the FlexEE and how do get on with them?
My main aim is get a saddle that's comfortable for the horse and me and offers as much security for me as possible, it doesn't have to be suitable for showing or dressage as I could keep Spuds for that and she is not a typical Dales shape at present, she has a wither and is not flat backed.
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Post by harveydales on Apr 22, 2015 4:48:18 GMT -1
Saddles really are a minefield! From what you say, Connie isn't a particularly extreme shape so you shouldn't have problems finding a saddle which suits her and you too. Everyone will tell you something different which doesn't help!
The serious endurance riders in our group tend to go for FnE saddles or the special lightweight synthetic ones. But for the majority of lower milage riders, just about anything goes.
I know of a few people happy with their Wintecs but not tried one myself. I am wary of the HM Flexee because I found it sat me far to wide when I tried one at a show and I know of a few people whose horses had back problems after using other treeless saddles so that has put me off - PM me if you want more info. I now prefer treed for security and comfort to both horse and rider.
Most of my riding life I've ridden in VSD or dressage saddles but a few years ago changed to a lightweight event saddle and now feel insecure in anything else!
Sorry, not much help! I guess it's a matter of trying out a few saddles and seeing how you feel.
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kc
Exmoor
Posts: 97
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Post by kc on Apr 22, 2015 18:22:07 GMT -1
I am just about to go for a wow aussie stock saddle after a recommendation on this board a while ago. www.wowsaddles.com/other-designs.html Apparently they really help you to stay secure because of the polleys (if that is how you spell it!). Wintec also do a version and both saddles are fully adjustable. I want to use mine for longer distance rides. I don't think you can jump very high in them but they are meant to be super comfy
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Post by yanny on Apr 22, 2015 20:03:10 GMT -1
I use a dressage saddle for my schooling and it does make me feel very secure. Alternatively if I'm hacking out and know I might be having a canter or a jump I prefer my more forward cut jumping saddle. It makes me feel a lot More secure. But the dressage one makes me feel really held "in place" so I feel more secure if there's a little hiccup With the steeds out hacking/in flatwork
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Post by yanny on Apr 22, 2015 20:05:07 GMT -1
I use a dressage saddle for my schooling and it does make me feel very secure. Alternatively if I'm hacking out and know I might be having a canter or a jump I prefer my more forward cut jumping saddle. It makes me feel a lot More secure. But the dressage one makes me feel really held "in place" so I feel more secure if there's a little hiccup With the steeds out hacking/in flatwork Sorry that wasn't very clear!! I basically mean if I'm having a steady hack or flatwork session, I favour the dressage but if I'm doing a bit more fast work/longer ride or jumping I have the jumping saddle. I find the dressage more secure and the jumping more comfy if that makes sense!
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