This is an archived Horseadvice.com Discussion. The parent article and menus are available on the navigation menu below:
HorseAdvice.com » Training & Conditioning Horses » Tack and Training » Types of Saddles and Fitting »
  Discussion on Anyone jumping in a treeless saddle?
Author Message
Member:
36541

Posted on Saturday, Dec 5, 2009 - 9:22 pm:

I am biting the bullet and saddle shopping after 30, yes 30 years in the same Stubben(Wotan, no longer even made!). I spent time in my test ride Circuit Elite today on three different horses, and now I have a host of new uncertainties. None of the horses needs a wide tree, but the regular tree fits them all a bit differently. Only one of the three had a fit I found acceptable. I want the saddle for jumping mainly, and would prefer a deeper seat so cross-country is always an option!
Because I want all three horses to be pain-free, I am considering a treeless saddle and am hoping to hear from someone who is jumping in one. I am also considering the Collegiate Convertible Senior Event saddle with the gullet change system and would appreciate any of your comments?
I have dithered around on this decision for a year, was tipped over the edge by Dover's "Cash for Clunkers" saddle campaign. They will give you $250 off your purchase of one of their 5 saddles for yours if the tree is intact.
Member:
simonem

Posted on Saturday, Dec 12, 2009 - 7:33 pm:

Stacy,

I have no experience with treeless saddles, but I do own a Circuit saddle, and thought you might like some insight on that since they are having such a deal right now. I have ridden in the Champion (no longer made- I paid $1000 for it in 2000) daily for about 8 years of the 10 I have owned it, and I still love it. It's held up amazingly well, still looks beautiful. I would say it's still in "new" condition, except for some minor discoloration on the lower flaps, but that's probably due to my poor care of it. Even the stitching on the pommel is in excellent condition, despite me riding for years in jeans in it. I don't think they are as comfy as more expensive saddles, but for the money, they are balanced well and ride correctly. I have a regular tree, and it fits my narrow withered TB well, but would be sketchy on anything wider than him. I suppose they run a little small. Not sure on the trees on the newer models though.

Good luck with your saddle shopping!

Simone
Member:
36541

Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 9:35 am:

Thanks Simone. The test saddle was the Circuit Pro in the regular tree - I am sending it back tomorrow. They would not extend the "clunkers" deal to the Collegiate, so I am going to test ride it anyway. I found that I definitely want a rounder seat, don't like the cut-outs in the close contact. I'll keep the thread updated the thread for everyone else riding in a clunker!
Home Page | Top of Page | Join Us!
Horseadvice.com is a BBB Accredited Business. Click for the BBB Business Review of this Horse Training in Stokesdale NC