Saddle

[astemudfoot]

I'm trying to buy a new saddle

Comments

[omnot]

I've only ever had secondhand saddles, mostly "buy it as you see it" so all safety, fit and soundness checks are done on the spot. Buying saddles without trying them out means that it's easy to acquire a shed full of decent $50 saddles, one of which will fit most any horse and rider combination. In theory.*cough*

If you wanted a saddle from an auction or garage sale, I'd be all kinds of useful. But as it is all I can say is "Good Luck!" :)

[neep1]

I too have only ever bought 2nd hand, I had a really nice GP but sold it after it didn't fit my main horse and have since moved into a dressage saddle (didn't stop me jumping in it however). I then got a cheap paddock bash saddle for $50 and its fitted everything else since - I knew I'd need a wide gullet and it works - slightly smaller than my other (16.5" rather than 17.5" but whats 2cm). Also if unsure seriously think about the wintec/bates self interchangeable gullets - good if you have young horses that like to change shape, they hold their value as most people are after them these days from what I have seen and I certainly prefer aswell, means you can change the gullet yourself. See if you can try a model/style on a horse and find what you like to ride in and then see if you can find second hand. I now love the Isabell Worth Dressage saddles (and I don't really ride dressage), as they give me a good position and hold you in the saddle, and I found comfortable for endurance too (plus easy to wash).