Re: Saddles - Wintec

[divingduoandcorgis]

This message is from: divingduoandcor...@comcast.net


I can relate to going thru a few saddles to get to the right one...including
an endurance saddle that was too narrow and a western saddle that fit my horse
well but I had trouble riding  in!  It has been a year for me too.



I started with a Wintec All Purpose english saddle (CAIR) w/adjustable tree
 in the extra wide (white) setting on my mare.   She is moderately wide,
14.1H.    My first fjord, I figured as she lost weight, got more fit, it
was a good way to start.  It was really comfy too!   I bought it used and
the seat was a little big ...so I wanted to eventually replace it...



Wanting a more secure saddle for trail riding after having  shoulder
surgery, a western trainer and I  ended up taking my girl to a good size
 saddlery and trying most the saddles in the place (well, it felt that
way!)  I ended up with a Cactus all around western saddle which is wide
enough and relatively light weight with a short skirt.  It has roughout
leather on the fenders and skirt.   I love it!!   Soph  seems to like it
as well...and it feels very secure on the trail and puts me in a balanced,
dressage-like position . 



I was fortunate that alot of great people at my barn were very generous with
letting me try their saddles before I bought the one I have now ... I had
issues with feeling that "chair" position too ...A fr iend had me try her 
Crates all around and it was eye opening... .   has a narrower twist and a
"pocket" which put me in a perfectly balanced position... with legs underneath
me.   I ended up with a saddle with the same feel...



I never had so much trouble finding the "right" saddle for a horse before, but
the search was worth it.   Good luck! ... the more saddles you try will
hopefully help you recognize what fits you both when you find it!!    PS. 
I love my fjord!  She is so worth the extra effort to find a good fitting
saddle. :-)  


Beth, Bob, the Corgis and the Fjord

- Original Message -
From: lboy...@aol.com
To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com
Sent: Tuesday, July 10, 2012 7:31:08 PM
Subject: RE: Saddles

This message is from: lboy...@aol.com

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RE: Saddles

[S Sexton]

This message is from: S Sexton 


I've got a Wintec Dressage and a Wintec AP, one with CAIR, one flocked. Both
have changeable gullet. My problem is that I am on the XW gullet and it is not
wide enough but I tried a Wintec Wide AP saddle and it was still tight on 1X
but 2X would have dropped the saddle pommel onto her spine. I'm not very happy
with the Wintec seat though as I don't feel as comfy in it but that's just me.
SO, I am on the saddle hunt as many others are it seems. I've tried some
really fancy (and out of my budget) dressage saddles for sale locally but even
those weren't a good fit for me or Sparrow. Next I have 2 Ansurs and a
Sensation coming my way for trials. If those don't work, I have 2 other
Sensations I can try, an Albion, a Duett and another brand I forget at the
moment. It seems to be a very much trial and error in order to get the right
setup. But, if you like your saddle and it fits your Fjord and it's only the
fenders are an issue - I'd wonder, can you raise your stirrups a hole or two
in order to have better balance against them/reaching distance? Or if they are
as high as they go - do you mind the fenders themselves otherwise? You might
be able to get a saddle shop or leather repair place (here it's my local shoe
repair and motorcycle leather sewing shop) that can do repairs and cut downs
and such. They might be able to resculpt the fender to fit you better? Or
how's the rigging put together under the fender? Would you be able to just
dismantle the current fenders off, maybe undo their stitching at top and would
that show a stirrup bar/hanger? Wintec might be able to shed light on that -
of course they would void your warranty if you have one, but if you bought it
used like I did mine, you don't get a warranty. Or maybe changing the type of
stirrups? Would be interesting to see if there is a way to alter yours to make
it work so you are comfy too but save you the time and hassle and money to buy
a new one just slightly different and to also then have to sell off your old
one. Just a thought. Good luck!Stephanie & SparrowKansas
PS - I should mention poor Sparrow is carrying a tad, a bit, okay a lot of
extra weight which doesn't help our saddle fitting but we are both on an
exercise regimen and diet to work on it. :)

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Re: Saddles

[S K]

This message is from: S K 


Hi Stephenie!  I like your reply, not confusing at all !!!  That's Exactly
what I'm going to dotake my time and hunt around...I'd like to bring Andy
down to the tack shop but it's an hours ride and can't go without his baby
brother...I have never tried to trailer the little one ( J.J. )  That's next
on the agenda
 
They can try saddles on him right there...but these
saddles sound very heavy...( western draft wide tree's )   and Icelandic
sizes..but she said they tend to be heavy...I can't lift too  much wt.
anymore...I lifted 3 1/2 tons of wood pellets in 40 lb. bags for the wood
stove last winter and my poor shoulder doesn't and won't lift heavy anymore...
 
Yes, I'm confused, to say the least...I'll find that saddle, I'm sure
somedaylol
 
I've had many people from this site trying to sell me
saddles, but it's tough when you can't try them on
 
People here have been
absolutely wonderful with all the advice..everyone's trying to  help God
Bless you all!
 
That's what makes me love horse people, always trying to 
help each other...the way it should be!
 
I'll let everyone know if I do find
a saddle but tend to agree with my trainer, No saddle will Ever be perfect, as
his girlfriend tends to think...we can only do the best we can for the Horse
first then the rider.   Riding should be fun, like you say, not a
burden to either of youHe works with so many horses he's the one I think
I'd listen to...
 
I want to thank Each and Everyone of you who have helped 
me with my search...Your a Wonderful Group!!
 
God Bless Each and Every
one of you!!
 
Susan..
 
 
 
 

From: S Sexton 
To:
fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com 
Sent: Monday, July 9, 2012 8:58 PM
Subject: RE:
Saddles

This message is from: S Sexton 


Hmm, I'd say
the trainer's girlfriend gets less weight to her comments than
your trainer -
after all, your trainer would have a better idea how you and
your horses move
and are conformed. Plus, the saddle fitter probably is
wanting to sell you a
saddle from her own stock/store... which makes her
opinion likely more biased.
Just my 2 cents, plus you can always do what
Sparrow and I are trying - we're
going to demo several different brands of
treeless (along with trying some
treed XW) saddles and see what WE like and go
from there. If you figure to
keep an open mind and find what fits your horse
and you, who cares what the
others think, they don't have to try and ride in
it! LOL After all, just think
how unhappy your horse would be in an ill
fitting saddle, whether it's treed
or treeless, and how unhappy you'd be in an
ill fitting seat/twist and how
that would make riding NO FUN - I try to focus
on that and ignore the rest of
the comments. I'm getting some heat for trying
the treeless from some local
dressage club big whigs, but I even tried some of
their for sale treed
saddles, and they didn't fit us either. So whatever
it is that fits us
both in the end is what I'll buy. Good Luck! I know it's
frustrating and time
consuming and costly, hope your hunt goes well and
smoothly. StephanieKansas
www.sextonstables.com/mares.html

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RE: Saddles

[S Sexton]

This message is from: S Sexton 


Hmm, I'd say the trainer's girlfriend gets less weight to her comments than
your trainer - after all, your trainer would have a better idea how you and
your horses move and are conformed. Plus, the saddle fitter probably is
wanting to sell you a saddle from her own stock/store... which makes her
opinion likely more biased. Just my 2 cents, plus you can always do what
Sparrow and I are trying - we're going to demo several different brands of
treeless (along with trying some treed XW) saddles and see what WE like and go
from there. If you figure to keep an open mind and find what fits your horse
and you, who cares what the others think, they don't have to try and ride in
it! LOL After all, just think how unhappy your horse would be in an ill
fitting saddle, whether it's treed or treeless, and how unhappy you'd be in an
ill fitting seat/twist and how that would make riding NO FUN - I try to focus
on that and ignore the rest of the comments. I'm getting some heat for trying
the treeless from some local dressage club big whigs, but I even tried some of
their for sale treed saddles, and they didn't fit us either. So whatever
it is that fits us both in the end is what I'll buy. Good Luck! I know it's
frustrating and time consuming and costly, hope your hunt goes well and
smoothly. StephanieKansas

www.sextonstables.com/mares.html

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Re: Saddles

[S K]

This message is from: S K 


   After much reading, I think I'll stick with the saddle with the tree...I'm
not 200 lbs. but have been told by many, many people that these saddles may
hurt the horses back..I don't want to hurt my horse's back..even though my
trainer says Andy will let me know if it's hurting him...Don't want to put him
through that
 
Thanks everyone out there for all the very knowledgeable
info!

From: "jern...@mosquitonet.com" 
To:
fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com 
Sent: Monday, July 9, 2012 1:30 PM
Subject: Re:
Saddles

This message is from: jern...@mosquitonet.com


Treeless saddles may
not be good for a heavy rider: more of a strain on the horse's
back.  Light
riders are OK

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska

> Thank you for the reply
LolaI'm very confused at the moment...so many
> conflicting answers...My
trainer's girlfriend works at fitting horses to their
> saddles and she
doesn't like the treeless due to the strain on the horse's
> backbut my
trainer says they're greathm

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RE: Saddles

[Gail Russell]

This message is from: Gail Russell 


I definitely agree about the Aussie saddles.  So, why don't you just give me 
your Ricotti saddle that I know I love, and we're done. :)
 
I do have a traditional saddle that I love, and that I have not come out of 
even in big spins, but there is no slot for my leg and I can only ride a short 
way before being in agony.  You may be correct that a twist is necessary.  I 
did try a Bob Marshall saddle 15 years ago and found my Fjord was totally 
outraged by it and I found it uncomfortable.  I just thought they might have 
changed.  

Gail

This message is from: Karen McCarthy 


 Balance? "Seat"?Adjustment (placement, pad)?All of this comes into play in 
either type of saddle. Sorry,  Gail I can't buy that these riders stayed in 
their saddles just b/c they were treeless.That they are good riders, (or just 
got lucky!) Same w/ Aussie saddles. But please, this is just my personal 
experience.Not trying to be pro or con. > From: g...@zeliga.com

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Re: Saddles

[Lola Lahr]

This message is from: Lola Lahr 


My Free Form saddle leaves nice even sweat marks in all of the right
places. It does not squash down on their backs,and they are never sore. I
can't say the same for the treed saddles I've had - even the custom made
ones. I do believe that what Gail said about the security of the treeless
saddles. I feel like I'm really in a nice "deep" seat, and I can feel
it immediately if there is any tension in the back. Yes. even with a saddle
pad. My horses who have had bad experiences with saddles (rolling their
eyes to the backs of their heads and tensing up when they see a . saddle
coming), actually breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed as soon as they
figured out that the saddle wasn't hurting "in that spot". If the rider
weighs over 200 pounds, treeless saddles are not recommended by the
companies that make them.

On Mon, Jul 9, 2012 at 7:58 AM, S K  wrote:

> This message is from: S K 
>
>
> Thank you for the reply LolaI'm very confused at the moment...so many
> conflicting answers...My trainer's girlfriend works at fitting horses to
> their
> saddles and she doesn't like the treeless due to the strain on the horse's
> backbut my trainer says they're greathm

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RE: Saddles

[Karen McCarthy]

This message is from: Karen McCarthy 


 Balance? "Seat"?Adjustment (placement, pad)?All of this comes into play in
either type of saddle. Sorry,  Gail I can't buy that these riders stayed in
their saddles just b/c they were treeless.That they are good riders, (or just
got lucky!) that the saddle (w/ or w/o a tree) is fitted properly is the real
reason.I see reasons for using both types of saddles, but JMPO, I prefer a
well fitted "traditonal" treed saddle. Like Lola, I like my legs to drape, not
splay. Once someone used an Ansur dressage saddle on one of my fjords + my WB,
and that saddle definitely "squashed" their withers, even on the fjord. I rode
in a Bob Marshall once and couldn't wait to get out of it. Same w/ Aussie
saddles. But please, this is just my personal experience.Not trying to be pro
or con. > From: g...@zeliga.com
> To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com
> Date: Mon, 9 Jul 2012 08:43:35 -0700
> Subject: RE: Saddles
>
> This message is from: Gail Russell 
>
>
> Has anyone tried a Boz saddle?
>
> As to the Bob Marshall...my neighbor just encountered a bear while trail
riding.  Her horse, and that of her friend spun around and tried to run away.
Both riders stayed on.  They attribute that to their treeless saddles.  One
has a Bob Marshall, and the other has a treeless saddle made in Canada.  Don't
know the name.  Maybe someone else does?
>
> Gail

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Re: Saddles

[S K]

This message is from: S K 


Thank you for the reply LolaI'm very confused at the moment...so many
conflicting answers...My trainer's girlfriend works at fitting horses to their
saddles and she doesn't like the treeless due to the strain on the horse's
backbut my trainer says they're greathm


From: Lola Lahr

To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com 
Sent: Monday, July 9,
2012 10:38 AM
Subject: Re: Saddles

This message is from: Lola Lahr



I use the FreeForm treeless saddles (Action Rider Tack
is a great place to
buy them - or used are great too- check on an endurance
site). They have a
more of a twist so the seat is not as flat and wide as the
Bob Marshall. I
tried the Bob Marshall and loved it, but my mare's back was
too wide and
flat so it felt like my legs were sticking straight out to the
sides and I
couldn't really use them ;-)  My FreeForms fit ALL of my horses,
so I only
need enough saddles for the number of riders going. I find that with
a good
saddle pad, girth, and proper tightening - just like a treed saddle-
they
don't slip any more than any other saddle, and I grab the front of the
saddle to get on.

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Re: Saddles

[Kim Manzoni]

This message is from: Kim Manzoni 


I use a treeless saddle, the Bob Marshall saddles, on my horses. We love them.
They do not slip if you use a good saddle pad and tighten them properly.
However, instead of using the horn to boost yourself up into the saddle, you
have to use the horses mane.

When Titan is old enough to ride we plan on
buying a third Bob Marshall.  : )
Yes, we love them.

-Kim in Md...dying from
the heat and flies.




 From: S K

To: "fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com"
 
Sent: Saturday, July 7, 2012 8:36 PM
Subject:
Re: Salt, Sweat, etc.
 
This message is from: S K 
Thanks for all the infoI was told the treeless saddles slip alot ...do you
find this to be so?  That's all I need is to land on the ground...I'm a
novice, got my dream babies later in life...so need a really good
saddle,,,your so right,  my  horse comes first...I want him to be
comfortable...My trainer told me I could use my saddle for about an hour at a
time...but when we do start going out, I will be out more than an hour.
 
Susan

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Re: Saddles

[divingduoandcorgis]

This message is from: divingduoandcor...@comcast.net


I have a very drafty mare in Denver.   I ended up with the 7" gullet Cashel 
Trail saddle (with rounded skirt).   I took a tracing of her withers and drew 
it on a poster, cut it out and took it with me.   There are places on the 
internet that show how to do this.  I had a DeSoto hand made endurance that 
basically came with the horse...and it wasn't wide enough.   Wasn't made for 
her.I highly recommend that you take your horse, trainer and/or trusted 
person and go to a store that lets you bring your horse...   I wish I had done 
that first.   Would have saved alot of time and gas money.   The weird thing is 
that some saddles fit the horse that  didn't look wide enough . . . I also have 
an extra wide adjustable tree wintec that I love (weighs next to nothing).   I 
figured that she may lose weight and firm up with work and she is, but haven't 
needed to go down in size yet.   I didn't get into treeless, but I know some on 
the site have experience there.

LOL  now that I have been breaking in the Trail saddle, I am not sure "I" like 
it!  I hope it gets more comfortable as it breaks in, but I seem to have 
trouble sitting in the right place in it...

Good luck!!



Beth, Bob, the Corgis and the Fjord

- Original Message -
From: julie haimowitz 
To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com
Sent: Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:57:39 - (UTC)
Subject: Saddles

This message is from: julie haimowitz 


Hi everyone,   wondering what saddles you are finding fit your Fjords
best.  I have an old western trail saddle that has seen better days for
sure and am hoping to find something to fit my wide and short backed girl
and be comfortable for me as well!!  I mostly rode her around the property
bareback which I love but am ready to hit the trails and think it probably
safest to use a saddle!  Thanks for any advice, Julie

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Re: Saddles

[Kim Manzoni]

This message is from: Kim Manzoni 


Hi Julie, my Fjord isnt home yet and way to young to ever need a saddle now
but I use Bob Marshall treeless saddles on all of my horses. They fit
everything from the tall thin framed long backed Tn Walker to my fat stocky
round foundation Quarter Horse. 

They come in various designs as well. With
skirt, without...etc. Check them out. I love them. I especially love that I
can feel the horse breathe and move under me. My QH had an issue with
crowhopping - in a regular saddle I had no idea when he was about to explode.
But in the treeless, I felt his back arch slightly and his back muscles
tighten... it gave me that brief warning where I was able to change directions
of his feet and get his mind off of the crowhop. He doesnt crowhop any more
and I attribute it to the retraining I gave him with Natural Horsemanship and
to my treeless saddle.  :)



 From: julie
haimowitz 
To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com 
Sent:
Friday, January 13, 2012 12:57 AM
Subject: Saddles
 
This message is from:
julie haimowitz 


Hi everyone,   wondering what
saddles you are finding fit your Fjords
best.  I have an old western trail
saddle that has seen better days for
sure and am hoping to find something to
fit my wide and short backed girl
and be comfortable for me as well!!  I
mostly rode her around the property
bareback which I love but am ready to hit
the trails and think it probably
safest to use a saddle!  Thanks for any
advice, Julie

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Re: Saddles

[Kim Manzoni]

This message is from: Kim Manzoni 


Hi Julie, my Fjord isnt home yet and way to young to ever need a saddle now
but I use Bob Marshall treeless saddles on all of my horses. They fit
everything from the tall thin framed long backed Tn Walker to my fat stocky
round foundation Quarter Horse. 

They come in various designs as well. With
skirt, without...etc. Check them out. I love them. I especially love that I
can feel the horse breathe and move under me. My QH had an issue with
crowhopping - in a regular saddle I had no idea when he was about to explode.
But in the treeless, I felt his back arch slightly and his back muscles
tighten... it gave me that brief warning where I was able to change directions
of his feet and get his mind off of the crowhop. He doesnt crowhop any more
and I attribute it to the retraining I gave him with Natural Horsemanship and
to my treeless saddle.  :)



 From: julie
haimowitz 
To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com 
Sent:
Friday, January 13, 2012 12:57 AM
Subject: Saddles
 
This message is from:
julie haimowitz 


Hi everyone,   wondering what
saddles you are finding fit your Fjords
best.  I have an old western trail
saddle that has seen better days for
sure and am hoping to find something to
fit my wide and short backed girl
and be comfortable for me as well!!  I
mostly rode her around the property
bareback which I love but am ready to hit
the trails and think it probably
safest to use a saddle!  Thanks for any
advice, Julie

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Re: Saddles

[Kathleen Prince]

This message is from: Kathleen Prince 


Sounds like you are right to me. This is why I've been researching
treeless saddles for my wide girls :-)
--
Kathleen Prince
kathl...@pookiebros.com

Pookie Bros. Pet Sitting
Professional Pet Care In Your Home!
http://www.pookiebros.com



On Sep 8, 2011, at 7:12 AM, igs...@tds.net wrote:

> This message is from: igs...@tds.net
>
>
> Ok, at the risk of becoming the most flamed person in Fjordie-land,
> I am going to weigh in on the saddle issue. To fit a fjord properly
> with any type of treed saddle, you need the right tree. I am sure
> you understand how a tree works - it is the wood or plastic
> skeleton that is designed to get your weight up and OFF your
> horse's spine. It is supposed to make good contact with your
> horse's back the entire length of the tree, while staying free of
> the shoulder area, so that the shoulder can swing freely. Most
> western saddles do not fit ANY horse except a very specific type of
> quarter horse because they are all using the same tree, all made by
> one company. It does not matter what you do with panels or gullets
> or whatever if the tree does not fit.
> There are only 2 companies in the US who still make their own
> trees. Billy Cook and Big Horn. I own 2 wide tree Billy Cooks and
> they are fabulous! I think that any one who saw my show saddle at
> the MWFHC show has to agree - fabulous tack that fits like a glove.
> I ride my BCs all the time, and I do not need a back cinch or a
> breastcollar or a specific type of cinch. My saddle does not slip
> because it FITS. If you need all kinds of rigging to keep your
> saddle in place, it does not fit. It is that simple.
> Think I am exaggerating? Let me tell you about my dumb-ass moment.
> I cleaned my saddle, and took the cinch completely off to clean it
> too. Re-attached it sort of half-assed on the off side (just enough
> to keep it physically on the saddle), thinking I would get it done
> properly at the barn. Got really busy and did not ride for a week
> or 2. Forgot about the cinch not being adjusted properly. Tacked
> up, jumped on, and did some ring work. We did serpentines and lots
> of trotting in circles, etc. At the end of the ride, I jumped off,
> and the saddle came off with me. The saddle did not slip around as
> long as I stayed balanced, because it fits!
> I can not speak to the issue of small manufacturers who custom make
> a saddle for you. If you are going to pay that kind of money, make
> sure you ask who made the tree. If it is a Steel (company, not
> material), save your money!
> Here's the part that is going to get me hate mail. My trainer grew
> up (literally) in a tack shop. Her mom is a fantastic tack fitter
> and award winning saddle designer. In my trainer's opinion, there
> were TWO saddles that fit properly at the recent fjord show. TWO!
> Mine and one other. (No, I do not know who the other one is.)
> Fjords are great at just sucking it up and carrying on. The fact
> that your horse is not bucking does not mean your saddle fits.
> Julie in Madison
> Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone, powered by CREDO Mobile.
>
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Re: saddles

[Debbie Hunt]

This message is from: Debbie Hunt 


Hi Group:

I, too, purchased a Duett Tango 36 cm. It works well with my boy and is very 
comfortable for me. I highly recommend this saddle.

I am so pleased with the Duett that I am considering purchasing a Duett jump 
saddle as we are doing a little jumping now and the Tango is not a jump saddle.

Debbie and Ivar in KY

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RE: saddles

[Gail Russell]

This message is from: Gail Russell 


I think it was the Syd Hill saddle that I tried, and found it was for a horse 
with a dipped back, NOT a flat back.  It rocked forward and back on the horse.  
It was obviously not a good saddle for my Fjords.

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Re: saddles

[Melinda Schumacher]

This message is from: Melinda Schumacher 


Thanks for your warning.  That would NOT be a good substitute for an english
dressage saddle!

Melinda


On Sat, May 1, 2010 at 8:17 PM, Bonnie  wrote:

> This message is from: Bonnie 
>
>
> Melinda:  years ago I bought an Australian saddle.  I really love the way
> they look.  Mine was a cheaper one, but I found that the legs are too far
> forward.  I felt like I was sitting in a chair with my legs ahead of me.  So
> it was difficult to sit with my heels below me, in line with my shoulder.
> I'm just mentioning this, in case you try one out.
>
> bonnie
>
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Re: Saddles

[KBatchelor]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Hi--
 
After much searching and looking at Aussie, endurance, dressage, and  western 
saddles, I ended up buying a Big Horn Trail Lite saddle that I  love.  I 
really wanted something that was secure with a balanced seat that  was not too 
difficult to heave onto his back.  Monark is a bigger Fjord at  14.3, 1000# and 
what they call the full quarter horse bars fits him well and it  only weighs 24 
pounds.  I ended up paying in the $1100 range--but well  worth it!
 
Good luck...
Kris in NC





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Re: saddles

[Linda McThoy Patorni]

This message is from: Linda McThoy Patorni <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

I agree.  I use my Circle Y on both my Fjords, and it's perfect -  
it's also comfortable for me

On Mar 8, 2008, at 7:11 PM, shawna smith wrote:

> This message is from: "shawna smith" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
> Hi Deb,
> I have a 4 yr. old Circle Y med-wide flex-tree and love it. It  
> weighs 24 lbs. and is extremely comfortable. I've used it on 6  
> different fjords and it worked on all of them. It's good quality  
> that is holding up very well with lots of miles on it and I'm sure  
> many more.Good luck in your search. Shawna in NW Oregon
>
>
>> This message is from: "Deb Logan" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>>
>> I know this question gets asked over & over BUT - I am looking for  
>> a western
>
> The FjordHorse List archives can be found at:
> http://tinyurl.com/rcepw
>

Linda McThoy Patorni
[EMAIL PROTECTED]

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Re: saddles

[shawna smith]

This message is from: "shawna smith" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hi Deb,
I have a 4 yr. old Circle Y med-wide flex-tree and love it. It weighs 
24 lbs. and is extremely comfortable. I've used it on 6 different fjords and 
it worked on all of them. It's good quality that is holding up very well 
with lots of miles on it and I'm sure many more.Good luck in your 
search. Shawna in NW Oregon




This message is from: "Deb Logan" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

I know this question gets asked over & over BUT - I am looking for a 
western


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RE: saddles

[Frederick J Pack]

This message is from: "Frederick J Pack" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Deb, I like the Orthoflex...
No, I don't have one for sale...sorry.

Fred

All Mail is scanned in AND out by Norton Anti-virus.
Fred and Lois Pack
Pack's Peak Stables
Wilkeson, Washington  98396 
 
   

This message is from: "Deb Logan" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

I know this question gets asked over & over BUT - I am looking for a western
or endurance type saddle for my Fjord - if anyone has one for sale 15 or 16
seator just some ideas of what type & model work best for fjords for
trail
riding - I currently have a treeless, but want a saddle with a
treeThanks!!
Deb in Western Washington

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Re: Saddles

[Bonnie]

This message is from: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hi Kate,
How big is your Percheron? I have a Percheron but don't like my saddle. How 
much did you want for your Montana Mountain Horse saddle?

Bonnie
- Original Message - 
From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

To: 
Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2007 7:49 PM
Subject: Re: Saddles



This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

I also love my Montana Mountain Horse saddle.  In the past I have had 
Aussie

saddles which I liked because of the incredibly secure feeling.   Once you
get wedged in between the cantel and those knee things (poleys), you  are 
really
NOT coming out.  But my Aussie saddle has a 10" gullet (custom  made for 
my

Percheron), so it needs to go to Ebay at some point.

Kate and Joe



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Re: Saddles

[KateSeidel]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

I also love my Montana Mountain Horse saddle.  In the past I have had  Aussie 
saddles which I liked because of the incredibly secure feeling.   Once you 
get wedged in between the cantel and those knee things (poleys), you  are 
really 
NOT coming out.  But my Aussie saddle has a 10" gullet (custom  made for my 
Percheron), so it needs to go to Ebay at some point.
 
Kate and Joe



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RE: Saddles

[LCForward]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

This is an interesting and timely discussion about the great variety of  
saddles that are suitable for Fjords.
 
I am a novice rider looking for my first saddle, and as a mature (read  that 
"senior") beginner, I  want a very secure saddle.  I'm looking at the trail 
and endurance  saddles but have not ruled out an Australian saddle.
 
If you have a knowledge of Australian saddles, would you please discuss the  
merits (or lack of merit) of Australian style saddles?
 
I want to thank especially Anne and Syl Weyker (Clay Ridge Farm)  and Patti 
Jo Walker (Francis Creek Fjords) for Fjords Eddie and  Ernie.  Thanks to Beth 
Beymer for inviting me to tag along  for an afternoon at Starfire Farm.  And a 
sincere thank you to Fjord  community on the forum for being so generous and 
willing to share your  experiences and opinions.
 
Linda Forward
>From West Texas where even my vet had never seen a Fjord and Eddie and  Ernie 
think it surely does NOT look like  Wisconsin!



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Re: saddles

[Melinda Schumacher]

This message is from: "Melinda Schumacher" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hi Genie,

My Prestige is the Top Dressage.  I bought it from my (very experienced)
dressage instructor, whom I just began working with.  She says Prestige is
the only saddle she will buy, and was selling this one because it turned out
to be too large a seat for her daughter.  Several of her students use
Prestige too.  She also likes Prestige because the seat is deep, the side
panel (is that what it's called?) is long, there's no buckle under the thigh
where the leathers attach, and the leather is high quality.  It has a good
sized thigh roll, not adjustable, but in the right place for me.  I tried it
out for my lesson yesterday and was completely comfortable.  I think Mirakel
is 14.3; I don't know her weight or circumference, but she is not dainty!
She is wider/broader than the quarter horses I learned how to ride on a
couple of years back.  The saddle was a perfect fit behind the shoulder,
cleared her spine, and was perfectly balanced (level) front to back.

Melinda
Marengo (near Columbus) OH



On 2/4/07, Genie Dethloff <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
> This message is from: Genie Dethloff <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
> >This message is from: "Melinda Schumacher" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> >
> >Hello List,
> >
> >I bought a used Prestige dressage saddle for Mirakel today which fits her
> >very very well (and very very comfortable for me).  Size 18-33.  Much
> easier
> >to fit than the western saddles (in which she needed a draft tree).
> >
> Melinda
>
> Melinda,
> Which Prestige Dressage did you buy?  I though I had picked out my
> saddle, a Frank Baines Capriole, when I had the opportunity to sit on
> a Prestige Optimax at a tack shop.  34cm is supposed to be Medium
> Wide and 33cm a medium.  I am surprised a 33 fit Mirakel. There is a
> used 18-34 at our tack shop which I didn't bring home thinking it
> wouldn't fit but I may try it now.
> --
> Genie Dethloff
> Ann Arbor, Michigan
>
> The FjordHorse List archives can be found at:
> http://tinyurl.com/rcepw
>
>
>


-- 
Coaching with Melinda Schumacher, MD
Personal Empowerment through Creative Expression and Equine Experiential
Learning

"You wander from room to room hunting for the diamond necklace that is
already around your neck."   ~Jalal-Uddin Rumi

"As she knotted the reins and took her stand, the horse's soul came into her
hand, and up from the mouth that held the steel came an innermost word, half
thought, half feel."~paraphrased, John Masefield

Fly Without Wings  www.flywithoutwings.net
Gestalt Practitioner  www.gestaltcleveland.org

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Re: saddles

[Genie Dethloff]

This message is from: Genie Dethloff <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>


This message is from: "Melinda Schumacher" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hello List,

I bought a used Prestige dressage saddle for Mirakel today which fits her
very very well (and very very comfortable for me).  Size 18-33.  Much easier
to fit than the western saddles (in which she needed a draft tree).


Melinda

Melinda,
Which Prestige Dressage did you buy?  I though I had picked out my 
saddle, a Frank Baines Capriole, when I had the opportunity to sit on 
a Prestige Optimax at a tack shop.  34cm is supposed to be Medium 
Wide and 33cm a medium.  I am surprised a 33 fit Mirakel. There is a 
used 18-34 at our tack shop which I didn't bring home thinking it 
wouldn't fit but I may try it now.

--
Genie Dethloff
Ann Arbor, Michigan

The FjordHorse List archives can be found at:
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Re: saddles

[Melinda Schumacher]

This message is from: "Melinda Schumacher" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hello List,

I bought a used Prestige dressage saddle for Mirakel today which fits her
very very well (and very very comfortable for me).  Size 18-33.  Much easier
to fit than the western saddles (in which she needed a draft tree).

Melinda



On 2/2/07, Melinda Schumacher <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
> What is the link for getting the Star Trekk saddle?
> thanks,
> Melinda
>
>
>
> On 1/29/07, Tom & Jerri Rounsville < [EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> >
> > This message is from: "Tom & Jerri Rounsville" < [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> > >
> >
> > You got me to try the Star Trek and I bought one. It fits the Fjord
> > great. I like the panel for the back. It is also very comfortable.
> >
> > Jerri
> >
> >


-- 
Coaching with Melinda Schumacher, MD
Personal Empowerment through Creative Expression and Equine Experiential
Learning

"You wander from room to room hunting for the diamond necklace that is
already around your neck."   ~Jalal-Uddin Rumi

"As she knotted the reins and took her stand, the horse's soul came into her
hand, and up from the mouth that held the steel came an innermost word, half
thought, half feel."~paraphrased, John Masefield

Fly Without Wings  www.flywithoutwings.net
Gestalt Practitioner  www.gestaltcleveland.org

The FjordHorse List archives can be found at:
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Re: saddles

[Melinda Schumacher]

This message is from: "Melinda Schumacher" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

What is the link for getting the Star Trekk saddle?
thanks,
Melinda



On 1/29/07, Tom & Jerri Rounsville <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
> This message is from: "Tom & Jerri Rounsville" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
> You got me to try the Star Trek and I bought one. It fits the Fjord
> great. I like the panel for the back. It is also very comfortable.
>
> Jerri

The FjordHorse List archives can be found at:
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RE: saddles

[Tom & Jerri Rounsville]

This message is from: "Tom & Jerri Rounsville" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

You got me to try the Star Trek and I bought one. It fits the Fjord
great. I like the panel for the back. It is also very comfortable.

Jerri

> This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> 
> Oh boydo I know about the saddle search. 30+ saddles later. The
> Duett.. all I can say is, I have two horses here that hated 3 of the
> saddle types of Duett's I tried. Ended up with a Triple E Flex panel
> from El dorado saddlery, a StarTrekk comfort and Treefree. Last two
> are treeless. Will all the wide ones I have here...I ended up with the
> saddles that are made to fit the wide ones well.
> 
> This is a neat web site for Treeless and part treed saddles.
> http://www.freewebs.com/alternativehorse/
> 
> El Dorado saddle.. you do however have to watch out for their quality
> control. http://www.eldoradosaddle.com/
> 
> I would love to find a Light weight, very well made and super, super
> soft seated western saddle, short enough to fit my horse(s).if I
> start riding again that is.
> 
> Shari

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Re: Saddles Revisted

[Lisa Wiley]

This message is from: "Lisa Wiley" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Marcy,

Thank You!  I didn't expect to hear from you this weekend.  Wish I could be 
at the seminar!

Lisa Wiley
Turnabout Portuguese Water Dogs
Connecticut State Director Ponies With Purpose
FASTeam
www.MyTurnabout.com
www.CookiesAlaDuck.com

Re: Saddles Revisted

[briar hill farm]

This message is from: briar hill farm <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>


--

Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 10:58:14 -0400
From: "Lisa Wiley" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: Saddles Revisted

This message is from: "Lisa Wiley" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Genie,

Thanks.  I will have my daughter Claire ask Marcy.  She is at Briar Hill 
now.   We will be going up there in a few weeks so I probably could  stop in 
Bennington.  I have also asked Claire to have Marcy try my Passier on Fjiona 
and see how the fit is.  If she thinks it can be reflocked I may try that. 
Claire told me it would not fit.  Yesterday I found out she hasn't tried it 
yet.  I am sure it is because Marcy has her very busy.



Lisa Wiley


Hi Lisa,
We have several saddles that you can try when you come to pick up Fiona. 
We keep close to two dozen saddles (all purpose, dressage, close 
contact, trail, Western) as no two Fjords are exactly alike and Saddle 
fit/comfort is absolutely essential to the training of a horse. (we also 
train those brown horses with funny backs)
Miss Fiona has an unusual Fjord back so don't rush out and but a 36 cm 
tree! She is not very wide for a Fjord and has prominent withers! Her 
back is not flat - table top like many Fjordies. Currently her back is 
not one that would be appropriate for a treeless saddle, in my opinion. 
I find the treeless can put pressure on the withers even with padding. 
(We have three different kinds you can check out while you are here).
We currently have Fiona in a Wintec, all purpose, Cair panels, MW tree. 
I would anticipate as she is worked more, her back will develop more 
muscle and she will need a wider tree. Already her back has changed some.
I like the Cair panels and the flexibility of the changeable gullet of 
the new Wintecs. Although the saddles don't fit everybody in the barn 
(doesn't work as well on a shorter backed horse) They are a nice saddle 
at a reasonable price. If you prefer leather, the Bates have the same 
panels and changeable gullets, but are pricier.
I'll most certainly try your Passier. And if the Passier is a close fit, 
I can arrange for a saddle fitter to come before Fiona leaves, if you 
like. (We have a Combined Driving Clinic here this week end and yes, 
both Claire and I are pretty busy!). We don't like to send horses home 
with out being sure their equipment - saddles, bit, harness, cart, etc. 
are safe and comfortable.  We are committed to horses going home safe, 
comfortable and happy and happy owners, too. Of course, I hope you're 
planning on a couple of lessons before you head home, so that you are 
comfortable with how she has been trained.
As for bits, Fiona is so far, most happy in a Myler comfort snaffle. (I 
may try several bits over the course of training a horse to find what 
they are most comfortable in, gives clear communication and the horse 
can stay soft) .


Happy Fjording
Marcy Baer
Briar Hill Farm
www.briarhillfarm.com

PS. Claire, by the way, is an awesome intern!!!  We are incredibly lucky 
to have her here.

Re: saddles

[emperry]

This message is from: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

How about a Duett?  They come in 38cm trees, both all purpose and
dressage models.  I might go that route for an English saddle.
http://www.duettsaddles.com/

I can tell you that I have tried the Wintec Wide.  It's supposingly an
all purpose, but has straight flaps like a dressage (although wider
flaps).  It does have very wide, flat panels (mine is the CAIR panels)
for our more broadbacked horses. The gullets are adjustable but unique
to this model (the gullets from the other Wintec models don't work). 
It does fit my mare, but neither she or I are super comfortable in it. 
Anyone interested in a used 18" Wintec Wide?

Eileen in Eastern WA and Jane We like our Bob Marshall Sports Saddle :)

Re: Saddles Revisted

[Lisa Wiley]

This message is from: "Lisa Wiley" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Genie,

Thanks.  I will have my daughter Claire ask Marcy.  She is at Briar Hill 
now.   We will be going up there in a few weeks so I probably could  stop in 
Bennington.  I have also asked Claire to have Marcy try my Passier on Fjiona 
and see how the fit is.  If she thinks it can be reflocked I may try that. 
Claire told me it would not fit.  Yesterday I found out she hasn't tried it 
yet.  I am sure it is because Marcy has her very busy.



Lisa Wiley
Turnabout Portuguese Water Dogs
Connecticut State Director Ponies With Purpose
FASTeam
www.MyTurnabout.com
www.CookiesAlaDuck.com

Re: Saddles Revisted

[Genie Dethloff]

This message is from: Genie Dethloff <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

>This message is from: "Lisa Wiley" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
>Here we go again.  ... So otherwise I need a new saddle.

Hi Lisa,
Once again (just kidding!)  I use a Wintec pro dressage.  It is light 
comfortable and adjustable.  Finne changes from needing the wide to 
the extra wide tree depending on the time of year - I just change the 
gullet plate.  With the adjustable knee blocks, you can make it fit 
your leg length.  Wintec makes a Pro Endurance which is similar but 
more for endurance or trail riding.  I like how sticky the synthetic 
suede sit is and you just dust off with a damp cloth.  The Cair air 
panels are very comfortable and I don't find that they make the 
saddle any bouncier as some air panels do.  With the Wintec Weber 
stirrup leathers (which are very easy to adjust) and their neoprene 
girths you are good to go.

Here is a company that I have dealt with that has a very generous 
trial policy for new or used saddles.  They have developed their own 
english trail saddle and are very knowledgeable about fit and comfort 
plus they carry major brands of leather saddles as well.  They have 
many used saddles.  If I were ordering a new saddle it would be the 
Frank Baines  Capriole from them but it is around $2000 )  :

http://www.trumbullmtn.com/Saddle_%20pages/New_Endurance/wintecend.htm

Duetts are in the $1200 range and have tree widths up to triple wide 
or more!  Trumbull Mountain tack carries them also.  Their store is 
just north of Bennington Vermont;  I don't know how close that is for 
you.  Luckily my daughter applied to Bennington College so I've made 
two trips to the area and had the opportunity to visit instead of 
just do business over the internet or phone.

I would ask Marcy what tree width she rides your fjord in and what 
brand and model saddle.  Sometimes saddle sellers can help you figure 
out tree size needed from one brand if they know what tree size fit 
in another brand as their tree widths can vary quite a bit.  What 
size english seat do you ride in or how tall are you?

Here is another good source for new and used saddles in Pelham, NH 
that has a generous trial period for new or used saddles and are very 
knowledgeable:
http://www.pelham-saddlery.com

Here is a short list of English leather saddles companies that have 
been around for a long time and can be found used and hold up very 
well: Albion, County, Courbette (least expensive), Karl Niedersuss, 
Passier, Prestige, Kieffer, Schleese, Stubben.  Newer companies are 
Laser and Duette.  I have ridden in the newest Lasers and found them 
very comfortable.

In Therapeutic riding we used a Courbette Marshall Special which is 
very comfy and comes in an all purpose that is closer to dressage for 
a longer leg.  When you look at all purpose saddles, if they say VSD, 
then they are closer to dressage than jumping and are for a longer 
leg but don't crank you into a "formal" dressage position.

I hope this helps.
-- 
Genie Dethloff
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Re: Saddles Revisted

[Karen McCarthy]

This message is from: "Karen McCarthy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Lisa, I got a used Laser saddle w/ an adjustable gullet. Love it very
much, lets me have great leg contact + fits like a glove on both me and
the ponies. When I ride my WB in it, I just narrow up the gullet w/ a
couple of turns of the little allen wrench it came with. Funny, I too
prefer a good used saddle; if its a decent quality saddle (i.e.e
expensive when new), it will usually hold up very well,unless someone has
done something drastic like roll it + broken the tree. Good thing about
used saddles is I don't have go deaf listening to creaking leather to
break it in! There are a few used Lasers available from time to time,
usually from consignment tack stores. FWIW, I also got a really nice
older Stubben Siegfried off of Ebay recently for under $300 incl.
shipping - (don't know how that happened, as it is in fantastic shape.
Very comfy for trail. I bought it for under saddle classes as the black
dressage saddle sticks out a bit in the sea of brown leather ;~)  I also
have a Hubertus all purpose dressage saddle that I am considering selling
as I like the Laser better. Good luck in your search!
Kmac

Karen McCarthyGreat Basin Fjords :: Carson City, 
Nevadahttp://www.picturetrail.com/weegees

Re: Saddles Revisted

[Pam In Palmdale]

This message is from: "Pam In Palmdale" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

The following URL has a review of the Cashel soft saddle, plus 
modifications:

http://lorienstable.com/articles/z-fitting/cashelsoftsaddle/

http://lorienstable.com/log/CashelSS-archive.shtml

Pam In Palmdale

- Original Message - 
From: "Ellen Barry" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

To: 
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:13 AM
Subject: Re: Saddles Revisted



This message is from: Ellen Barry <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hi Lisa,
 Have you ever considered the Cashel soft saddle?
 It's treeless, it's 9 pounds, with a neoprene girth it doesn't slip, it 
doesn't interfere with the horses movement. it fits every horse, it's 
extremely comfortable for trail rides, it's low maintenance (just wash it 
with a hose), it's cheap. (248$), it allows for longer legs (you can 
change the stirrups' position and lengthen/shorten them) I put my saddle 
away and only use the Cashel now. I just love it. No more pressure points 
for my horse or for me. I haven't found any downsides yet. Oh yes, and it 
comes in huntergreen, blue, red, purple and black.

Re: Saddles Revisted

[Pam In Palmdale]

This message is from: "Pam In Palmdale" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Lisa,
There is also the Baretek, which is another type of soft bareback 
pad/saddle; it comes in both English & Western.

http://www.baretek.com/

Pam In Palmdale


Lisa Wiley <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
 This message is from: "Lisa Wiley"

So otherwise I need a new saddle. I like the old saddles and would like to
find something used and not too pricy. I ride English and only trail ride.
So I like a comfy saddle that allows for a longer leg. So here is the
question. Are there certain brands I should look for? How wide should the
tree be? If I decide on a new saddle are there any priced under $1000 that
are worth looking at? How do people like synthetics? I have never had a
synthetic saddle. Nor have I ever ridden in one.

My girl should be coming home from Briar Hill in a few weeks and I would 
like

to be able to ride her. Thanks in advance to all those that don't push
Delete!
Lisa Wiley
Turnabout Portuguese Water Dogs
Connecticut State Director Ponies With Purpose
FASTeam
www.MyTurnabout.com
www.CookiesAlaDuck.com



 Ellen Barry. (who stays on her horse by the grace of God and her horse)

Re: Saddles Revisted

[Lisa Wiley]

This message is from: "Lisa Wiley" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Ellen,

That sounds great!  I thought they were more like riding in a bare back pad. 
Do they have the security of a saddle!  Fjiona says purple is her color!

Lisa Wiley
Turnabout Portuguese Water Dogs
Connecticut State Director Ponies With Purpose
FASTeam
www.MyTurnabout.com
www.CookiesAlaDuck.com

Re: Saddles Revisted

[coyote]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Reflocking doesn't change the tree at all. It changes the shape and 
firmness of the padding between the horse and the tree. It can only be 
done properly on a good quality English saddle -- western saddles don't 
have the same type of construction.


It IS a legitimate and time-honored way to adjust an English saddle. 
Make sure you find a saddler who is experienced in reflocking a saddle 
to correctly fit the horse -- the process is more than just "poking 
stuffing in."


DeeAnna

Lisa Wiley wrote:

...One tack shop owner suggested having it reflocked.  I had no
idea you could reflock a saddle and change the tree.  Doesn't 
sound possible to me

Re: Saddles Revisited

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Some Icelandic horse owners here have removed the metal arch in the gullet 
of the tree and have it replace with a flexible arch or no arch at 
all.   Also, the Wintec WIDE all purpose saddle works pretty well for some 
Fjords.  The Wintecs now have changeable  gullets (the metal arch)  so you 
might check that out.  And some Fjord owners have had good success with the 
Thorowgood  Griffin Broadback, both dressage and all purpose models.  You 
can see the Griffin and the Wintec in the Dover catalog or on the Dover 
website.  http://www.doversaddlery.com

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska,   smokey this morning, from a huge fire 50 miles 
to the south,  will be 85 degrees, 22 hrs daylight


>Here we go again.  I know you guys are going to want to hit the delete key.
>Please don't.  Here's the dilemma.  My saddle doesn't fit my fjord.  I really
>like my saddle.  One tack shop owner suggested having it reflocked.  I had no
>idea you could reflock a saddle and change the tree.  Doesn't sound possible
>to me.
>
>So otherwise I need a new saddle.  I like the old saddles and would like to
>find something used and not too pricy.  I ride English and only trail ride.
>So I like a comfy saddle that allows for a longer leg.  So here is the
>question.  Are there certain brands I should look for?  How wide should the
>tree be?  If I decide on a new saddle are there any priced under $1000 that
>are worth looking at?  How do people like synthetics?  I have never had a
>synthetic saddle.  Nor have I ever ridden in one.

Re: saddles

[CrystalZak]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

you might check into balanced ride saddles. they can be quite pricy, but you 
can find them on ebay now and then. they are very well made, and last a long 
long time. i got my first one from ebay, and it was at least 25 years old

here's his website:

http://www.fallisbalancedsaddles.com/fallis/welcome.htm

linda syverson-kerr also rides one of these. i have yet to see a horse they 
didn't fit, and as far as balance, they wrote the book. i can honestly say that 
i have never feel the need to grab the horn riding in my saddle, even when my 
QH tried to unseat me the second time.

patti jo walter spent a few minutes in it when i first rode oz, so she can 
tell you how it felt.

laurie

Re: Saddles for Fjords

[Krist Martinsen]

This message is from: "Krist Martinsen" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hi! Sylvia,  I have a Fred Hook saddle that was made in Kallispell Mt. Fred
sold out and I know that Montana Saddlery  is making that same saddle.It is a
cistom full quarter horse tree with very little skirting and is rigged with a
wide roping girth so that on a round barreled fjord you don't have to cinch up
to tight .  We have really like it.  Our English saddle is made by Sommers of
Germany and has the FHI symbol on it so that it I guess approved for the Fjord
horse.  Julie Wills
of Old Hickory Farms had bought it in Norway and I bought it through Darrell
after she died. It really fits the fjords nice and it is rigged so you could
go trail riding with saddle bags etc.  Also thanks Warren for your helpwith
setting up the cone course and helping us with our drive to ride getting cart
and saddle put away.Much help for the old guy.  Thaks again, Krist and
Jeanine
  - Original Message -
  From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
  To: dijest
  Sent: Tuesday, September 27, 2005 12:39 PM
  Subject: Saddles for Fjords


  This message is from:
<[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

  Hi   Do any of you know of a saddle/maker/rep/seller who
  would be willing to demo saddle fitting for a meeting in mid
  Washington State?
   Do any of you have favorite brands of saddles which fit
  your Fjords?
   Sylvia Riddle, Spokane WA

Re: Saddles for Fjords

[RJRFJORD]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

I ride in a Crates and a Broken Horn. Both fit ideally. Both are built  to 
fit my QH's too. English saddles I have not looked into too much, but I know  a 
regular English saddle does not fit my Fjord.

Re: Saddles for Fjords

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Dave Genadek, of "About the Horse"  is a saddle maker and expert on saddle 
fitting.  He holds a limited number of clinics..Go to his website and click 
on the button to find about scheduling a clinic.
  http://www.aboutthehorse.com/clinics.shtmlthis will take you 
to   http://www.aboutthehorse.com/clinicguide.html  Here you will find all 
the info you need to schedule a clinic, the facilities you need, etc.

"David's fee is $200 per day, plus expenses. Expenses can include: airline 
tickets, rental cars, shipping of saddles/supplies, and hotel rooms."

Or you can call him:

About The Horse Inc
224 Second Ave NE
Spring Grove, MN 55974
Sales: 1-800-449-7409
Office: 1-507-498-3668
Fax: 1-507-498-5932

HE also sells an excellent video on saddle fitting, including how to make 
you saddle fit your horse better.

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, cool and partly cloudy



At 03:39 PM 9/27/2005 -0400, you wrote:
>This message is from: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
>Hi   Do any of you know of a saddle/maker/rep/seller who
>would be willing to demo saddle fitting for a meeting in mid
>Washington State?
>  Do any of you have favorite brands of saddles which fit
>your Fjords?
>  Sylvia Riddle, Spokane WA

Re: Saddles for Fjords

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

As for saddles that fit Fjords, Ortho-Flex saddles , some styles, may fit a 
lot of Fjords.  Also Tucker saddles ,with the wide and extra-wide trees are 
very good.
Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska

 Do any of you have favorite brands of saddles which fit
>your Fjords?
>  Sylvia Riddle, Spokane WA

RE: saddles

[Mighty Mouse]

This message is from: "Mighty Mouse" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

I just wanted to say that I use an Arabian tree as well and it works great 
with our Fjords.  I have a Simco.


Merrilee in WI




Brian:  I ended up getting an Arabian tree.  Not only is it nice and wide, 
but
it was explained to me that the tree is slightly curved and it fit my 
fjord's

back perfectly.

Re: saddles

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

What brand saddle?  The trees vary so much between brands!

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, sunny and windy. 70 degrees



>Brian:  I ended up getting an Arabian tree.  Not only is it nice and wide, but
>it was explained to me that the tree is slightly curved and it fit my fjord's
>back perfectly.

Re: saddles

[CrystalZak]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

In a message dated 7/19/05 3:46:21 PM, 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:


> Subject: Re: Looking for saddles   you might also want to check out the 
> john fallis balanced ride saddles at: http://www.fallisbalancedsaddles.com/
> 
i ride one and so does linda syverson-kerr. they are set up for balance and 
bulkless ridding, and mine has fit every horse i have put it on. they are 
custom made, but you can often find them on ebay if you are lucky. check their 
website and see why they are so different. stirrups are forward hung for 
balance 
(if you stand up in this saddle you can stay standing without your feeting 
swinging backwards), the rigging is set up such that it is quite a bit less 
bulky 
than a standard western saddle and therefore gives you close contact. i love 
mine, and so does oz.

laurie

RE: Saddles

[The Mercers]

This message is from: "The Mercers" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

My friends and I really like the Tucker saddles with wide trees.

 

Taffy Mercer

Kennewick, WA

 

 

-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Monday, May 23, 2005 4:36 PM
To: fjordhorse-digest
Subject: Saddles

 

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

 

I am just inquiring about saddles.  My Fjord is very wide and flat
across the 

withers.  I have a great neighbor who also has Fjords and has been
letting me 

try out her saddles.  We have determined that I need a Full Quarter Bar
with 

an 8" Gullet.  Just wondering if anyone has any suggestion as to what 

companies might have what I need or where I might find a used one with
these 

requirements.  

 

Still waiting on the warm weather here in Iola, Wisconsin.

Thanks for any help, 

Jackie T.

Re: Saddles

[Epona1971]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

In a message dated 5/23/2005 4:43:23 PM Pacific Standard Time, 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
I am just inquiring about saddles.  My Fjord is very wide and flat across the 
withers.  I have a great neighbor who also has Fjords and has been letting me 
try out her saddles.
*** Hi Jackie-

Many of us Fjord owners use treeless saddles. I prefer the Bob Marshall and 
have both a western and an endurance style. www.sportsaddle.com.

Another good option is the Wintec saddle with the removable gullet ... remove 
it, as even the super-wide ones won't fit ;-). I got this idea from another 
Fjord owner. With this setup or the treeless be sure to use a good pad so your 
weight doesn't bear down on the spine.


/ )_~
/L/L
Brigid Wasson
SF Bay Area, CA
www.Brigid.Clickryder.com

Re: Saddles for Fjords

[Jas0441]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Hi Everyone :

Concerning saddles that fit fjords, I have been very happy with a wide-tree 
Australian saddle that I bought on Ebay several years ago. Best thing is that 
they are inexpensive. I have seen these on Ebay with "extra-wide" trees too. I 
have two Orrjo daughters that are very broad and my wide-tree Australian saddle 
fits them well. There is one on Ebay now if anyone is interested. 

Judy Phelps
Echo Valley Fjords
Chelan,Wa. 

Re: saddles

[Jas0441]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Patty Jo , what kind of saddle are you referring to ? Can you provide a maker's 
name and style ? Thanks much, I'd like to go try one but don't know what to ask 
for. 

Judy Phelps
Echo Valley Fjords
Chelan, WA. 

Re: saddles, sap, and a brag

[Tamara Rousso]

This message is from: Tamara Rousso <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Wow!  Loved the pics.  Driving is on my to do list for
someday...

Tamara
mom of Harrison Fjord
Fallbrook CA

www.algedifarm.com

--- Karen McCarthy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> I am so very proud of them: we ventured over the
> hill last weekend to our
> first "do", an Arena Driving Trial hosted by the
> Northern Calif. 

=
***^^***^^***^^***^^***^^***^^***^^***^^***^^***^^***
If you would be a real seeker after truth, it is necessary that at least
once in your life you doubt, as far as possible, all things. Rene Descart

[Norton AntiSpam] Re: saddles, sap, and a brag

[jgayle]

This message is from: "jgayle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Great job Karen, well done and it is certain that you know your horses and
they know you.   Jean G.





Author
"The Colonel's Daughter"
Occupied Germany 46-49
Send $20 to:
PO Box 104
Montesano, WA 98563

Re: saddles

[HorseLotti]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Caitlin;

You might want to check out the Circle Y saddle made for "drafts" -- they 
have both a regular weight and a light weight.  It fits my fjords and I like 
the saddle - it is leather.  It has a flexible tree.

Linda in MN

RE: saddles

[Frederick J. Pack]

This message is from: "Frederick J. Pack" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

I personally prefer the Ortho-Flex.  Mine is like sitting in an easy
chair...

Fred
This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Iam looking for a saddle for my 2 fjords.  They are both a medium built.
I 
was wondering if anyone  knew of good saddles for fjords.  I would like
a 
leather one, but whatever fits the best is what Ill get.
Any suggestions?
Many Thanks,
Caitlin

Re: Saddles - again

[Karen McCarthy]

This message is from: "Karen McCarthy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hi Debi -

what is "up" w/ the 4th billet? (sounds like a book title...)

Does it require some sort of an optional overgirth?

veey curious!

Kmac

Original Message Follows From: "Deb Williams" "I purchased a
Griffin Ap and LOVE it !!!  It has 4 billets one is up front and 3
are grouped like the usual placement on English saddles... "



Join the world’s largest e-mail service with MSN Hotmail. Click Here

Re: Saddles - again

[Deb Williams]

This message is from: "Deb Williams" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

> Question 1: You guys out there who HAVE a Thorowgood, how did you get hold
> of it? Any tack stores out there that have them in stock? I don't mind if
> it's on the other side of the country as long as it can be shipped...

To all interested in the saddle  discussion:
I purchased a Griffin Ap and LOVE it !!! It fits my horses an appie 1000 lb
and broad rounded back but has some withers and my Rosie,, Fjord 14.2 1200=
lbs and no withers and Elvis, Fjord 1000lb plenty of wither.  It stays put
on both mares, (stallion not riding in the English yet) and IS COMFORTABLE!
It feels like it is made out of firm foam over a big tree.  The flaps are
longish and seem straighter  nearly like a dressage saddle.  The materials
are soft brushed synthetic very much like suede on the seat and soft leather
like feeling flaps.  It has 4 billets one is up front and 3 are grouped like
the usual placement on English saddles.  I have used Wintec webbers for
leathers and really like them.  and a neoprene girth which may help with the
security in placement.
Debi Williams
Williams Hill Fjords
Waterford, Pa
Home of Tolgar, Belle,Hilda, Senja, Beckett, Rosie, Levi and Daniel

Re: Saddles - again

[Fhtrp]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Hi there, don't get too frustrated with the saddle search I know ours took 
forever. Now about the Thorowgood seems the company was in some financial 
trouble or something but they do still ship  (using Miller's) it just takes 
awhile. I had ordered the extra wide thru my Tack Store but they, the tack 
store screwed up and got us the wide. It's not quite wide enough for Nina 
(very drafty) but fits Frodo like a glove.
I have seen one of the ThornHill saddles on a very wide backed Morgan and 
it seemed to fit well. Really didn't investigate any further since the 
Thorowgood was cheaper. I should since I understand their headquarters is 
only half an hour from my house.
 Hope that helps. Robyn in MD (surviving but barely summer camps)

Re: Saddles, spanish dressage

[Northhorse]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

In a message dated 3/31/02 10:57:58 AM Pacific Standard Time, 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:


> I do know that there are
> several of us on the classical dressage e-mail list (you can subscribe
> at: http://www.classicaldressage.com/subscribe/discussion_lists.html).
> You will find the list very interesting.  It has several classical
> dressage masters from here and europe writing responses to the list, so
> the information is very helpful.
> 
Ah, I didn't know you were on that list too Curt.  Guess you noticed the can 
of worms I opened up with my question to Thomas about "toes out"? 

Pamela

Re: Saddles, spanish dressage

[Curtis Pierce]

This message is from: Curtis Pierce <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

> This message is from: "Anneli Sundkvist" 
> Btw...I guess I've asked this before, and it might have been discussed too.
> I have not been as active on the list as I want to during the past
> months...BUT is there anyone else who tries to do "spanish", "baroque" or
> classical dressage with their fjords?

Hi Anneli, I'm not sure how many of us here in USA are using classical
dressage techniques when training our Fjords.  I do know that there are
several of us on the classical dressage e-mail list (you can subscribe
at: http://www.classicaldressage.com/subscribe/discussion_lists.html).
You will find the list very interesting.  It has several classical
dressage masters from here and europe writing responses to the list, so
the information is very helpful.

I use the classical dressage techniques with our Fjords starting when
they are about 36 to 42 months old.  I feel that Fjords mature slowly,
so I don't ride them until they are at least 3 years old.  We do ground
drive around 18 to 24 months and then carriage drive the Fjords starting
around 22 to 26 months.

I use the classical techniques in our training program.  What I like
about the classical dressage technique is that it develops the parts of
the horse that is needed for a particular movement.  You had mentioned
the shoulder-in exercise. This is a lateral exercise that works well to
supple and strengthen the hindquarter, which helps the horse canter more
balanced.  Basically, the classical technique gives you the tools you
need to progress a horse through the dressage levels.  By the way, I
haven't tried the fancier movements like the spanish walk, maybe one of
these days I will have a Fjord that can do it.

Curt Pierce
Bristow VA

Re: Saddles, spanish dressage

[Jean Gayle]

This message is from: "Jean Gayle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Anneli, You make a good point about waiting for the canter until the walk
and trot are well established.  We have had long discourses on these
questions here on the list.  Many feel the fjord has difficulty taking the
canter, not all. With my experience with my first Fjord, Howdy, it was very
difficult to get him into the canter and it became a bad experience for him
when the trainer forced it.  With my second fjord who is built to draft, it
is also an unwilling but accomplishable act.  He has jumped, carted etc. but
on the video sent to me before I bought him I could hear a voice in the
background questioning a rider who had come in from a jumping event, "did he
canter?"

It must be a question of balance for the horse and reluctance to attempt
something that is uncomfortable.  Certainly the more competence the horse
gains at walk and trot, it would seem they would feel more in balance and
secure as they go into the canter.Jean





Jean Walters Gayle
[Authoress of "The Colonel's Daughter"
Occupied Germany 1946 To 1949 ]
http://users.techline.com/jgayle
Send $20
Three Horses Press
PO Box 104
Montesano, WA 98563

Re: Saddles

[Fhtrp]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

 Well, Nina's new saddle came yesterday, haven't had a chance to try it on 
her yet but it is really really wide which is great. As a draft type fjord 
she was actually too wide for even the wintecs with the changeable gullet 
system (according to the saddle fitter we had come out to help us assess 
everyone).
   I really have no doubt this one will fit. I bought it off of ebay but it 
actually came from a tack shop in CA. called Frontier Equestrians. Their 
address is  www.frontierequestrain.com. - the saddle I bought is an all 
purpose English saddle in an 18" seat. They also have a wide endurance saddle 
in development and a few others. The price was great, it's a nice leather 
saddle (Ascot) and including shipping was under $400.00.
   Another place with all purpose English is Miller's 
(www.millersharness.com) in their catalog they have saddles by Thorowgood in 
wide and extra wide. Their ad says the whole saddle is oriented with wide in 
mind not just the gullet. The two I've looked at are the AP Broad Griffin 
($395.00) and the Thelwell AP for ponies that are wide ($375.00). I just 
bought the AP Broad Griffin for Frodo the Fjord/Arab cross and it fits him on 
all points. These are synthetic but very nice.
I love hearing about all of your babies that have come. I am impatiently 
waiting for my Hanoverian, Lucinda to foal at the end of May. She is bred to 
Juventus from Iron Spring Farm.
 I too would like directions to Mel's Stable for this Sat.
  Thanks,  Robyn in MD

Re: Saddles /Hillview Farms

[Jon & Mary Ofjord]

This message is from: Jon & Mary Ofjord <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Jean/ Anneli,

Hillview Farms usually has a large booth at the Greater Minnesota Horse 
Expo which is coming up the last weekend in April. We will check out 
American Saddles when we get there. Remind us to tell you about them when 
we get back.


Jon Ofjord
in Northeastern Minnesota where we have had 2 mornings  in a row of above 
zero temperatures. Must be Spring!

 http://www.american-saddles.de/index.html
For English language click on the flag in the upper right corner:
http://www.american-saddles.de/dealer/dealer.html
There is a dealer here in the US, in case anyone is interested:  Hill View
Farms  <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>  507-723-5937
Hillview also carries Rocking-R saddle(now Timbeline Saddle co.)

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, light snow and +15 F. Spring is not here
afterall :(


>Since Ortho-flex is up for discussion...does anyone have experience/info or
>know the price of the Ortho-Flex Baroque?


Jean Ernest
Fairbanks, Alaska
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]


Mary Ofjord
North Coast Fjords
Grand Marais, MN 

Re: Saddles

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hi Anneli,

The Ortho-Flex company here in the US has been sold and the new owners
don't make the Baroque.  HOWEVER there is a company in Germany making
flex-panel saddles which makes a saddle called the SPANISH DRESSAGE as well
asothers.   Interestingly, they are called  AMERICAN SADDLERY! check out
their website:
 http://www.american-saddles.de/index.html
For English language click on the flag in the upper right corner:
http://www.american-saddles.de/dealer/dealer.html
They have a page with all  the information on construction of flex panel
saddles, including Ortho-flex and other companies using the system. Very
interesting.! click on "Saddle System Functions"

There is a dealer here in the US, in case anyone is interested:  Hill View
Farms  <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>  507-723-5937
Hillview also carries Rocking-R saddle(now Timbeline Saddle co.)

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, light snow and +15 F. Spring is not here
afterall :( 

   
>Since Ortho-flex is up for discussion...does anyone have experience/info or
>know the price of the Ortho-Flex Baroque?


Jean Ernest
Fairbanks, Alaska
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Saddles

[Anneli Sundkvist]

This message is from: "Anneli Sundkvist" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Since Ortho-flex is up for discussion...does anyone have experience/info or
know the price of the Ortho-Flex Baroque?

For pic and info in German clic:
http://www.orthoflex-sattel.de/orthoflex/englische_saettel/baroquedressage/b
aroquedressage.html

I can't find this model on the American webpage and no price neither in
dollars nor in euros! My Fjordgelding is to wide for most Spanish saddles
(and he's not even over-weighted!!!). I'm presently riding in a Swedish made
western/english/spanish-inspirated design, but there are some things that
make me look for a new saddle. A friend of mine has a Ultra-Flex a la Bent
Branderup on her cold-blooded trotter, but the widest model is too narrow
for Cider, sigh...but on the other hand it is a pretty expensive saddle, so
perhaps I should be pleased to have found something I CAN'T spend money
on!;o)

Anneli
**
Anneli Sundkvist
Dept. of Archaeology & Ancient History
St Eriks Torg 5
753 10 Uppsala
+46-18-4712082
- Original Message -
From: "Frederick J. Pack" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: 
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2002 6:19 AM
Subject: RE: Saddles


> This message is from: "Frederick J. Pack" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
> I ride the Ortho-Flex Tempe western model.  Expensive, but like sitting in
> an easy chair ALL DAY...
>
> It fits my Fjords perfectly.
>
> Fred and Lois Pack
> Pack's Peak Stables
> Wilkeson, WA USA
> http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/3158

RE: Saddles

[Frederick J. Pack]

This message is from: "Frederick J. Pack" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

I ride the Ortho-Flex Tempe western model.  Expensive, but like sitting in
an easy chair ALL DAY...

It fits my Fjords perfectly.

Fred and Lois Pack
Pack's Peak Stables
Wilkeson, WA USA
http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/3158

Re: Saddles

[Fhtrp]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

We had 4 orthoflexs none of which fit Nina or Frodo. We have had a lot more 
success with the Wintec extra wide gullet and the Thorowgood AP Griffin Broad 
in extra wide. Robyn in MD

RE: Re: Saddles

[Richard Stewart]

This message is from: "Richard Stewart" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Thanks so much for the detailed response.  Since I posted the
query about orthoflex I tried out an Orthoflex Caliente.  The
owner of the saddle sent it to me for my perusal.  I'll decide
today if I want to buy it, so your feedback if very timely. 
I trail rode it on both Saturday and Sunday.  An incredibly comfortable
saddle that just does fit my horse.  It's a close run thing,
but if I use the breat collar I keep the saddle from rubbing
against the swell of the hips.  My Fjord seems to like it.  He
was spry and entusiastic on the trail.  The gullet measures 7
inches and the pannels widen to about eight inches so it fits
that way very nicely.  The only problem is that the pad that
is included with the saddle (this is a traditional pad, not the
booties) runs up onto the hips slightly.  I'm keeping a close
eye on it to make sure it's not irritating the horse.  I might
just pull the pad farther forward and have a disproportionate
part of it out over his shoulders and a smaller part back by
the hips.  A simple but not especially attractive solution. 
I needed a 17 inch seat so I'm quite sure that with a shorter
seat, Calientes would fit most Fjords.  I think I will buy this
saddle.  Thanks for your timely response.

RJ Stewart 
>--- Original Message ---
>From: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>To: Richard Stewart <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>Date: 3/24/02 10:14:16 AM
>

>Hi,
>I am sending this to you privately as well as to the list, because
it seems
>my posts to the list aren't getting posted for several days.
LAnd Your post
>just showed up.  Please let me when you get this!
>*
>
>I have been using Ortho-flex saddles on my fjords for 15 years,
starting
>with one of the first models.  They work very well.  Some of
the models are
>better for wide backs..The Trail Partner and the Tempe have
wider gullets
>and fit wider fjords as well as Fjords with less wide backs.
 I think the
>Baron also has a wider gullet.  I have at present the "Stitchdown"
English
>style, a trail pardner, Brazos and the Patriot.  I have been
very happy
>with them, but they must be girthed firmly, and used in the
correct
>position on the back.  Some will cause rubbing on the loins
when use with
>the attached "booties"  on some horses.  My big gelding has
too much motion
>in his back for the use of the booties, so I use a thin pad
under the
>saddle.  The Western models that work best for Fjords are thos
with the
>wider gullets and shorter trees:  the Tempe, and the Trail Partner.
 There
>are always Ortho-Flex on eBay..Right now there is a Trail Partner
>http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1814169080
>and a Western Trail, which has the wide gullet but has a square
skirt
>instead of the round skirt.
>http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1814367610
>
>I hope this helps.
>
>Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, sunny and will be +40 today, with
12 1/2 hours
>sunlight
>>Does anyone have an opinion on Orthaflex saddles for Fjords.
>> Do they fit?  Do they cause soreness?  Any input concerning
>>Orthaflex would be appreciated.  Thanks.
>
>
>Jean Ernest
>Fairbanks, Alaska
>mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Saddles

[Joyce Concklin]

This message is from: Joyce Concklin <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

--- Richard Stewart <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> This message is from: "Richard Stewart"
> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> 
> Does anyone have an opinion on Orthaflex saddles for
> Fjords.
>  Do they fit?  Do they cause soreness?  Any input
> concerning
> Orthaflex would be appreciated.  Thanks.
> 
> RJ Stewart
> 
The ortho-flex I have is great!I ride a stitchdown on
a very wide bodied Fjord Mare.I have ridden in it on
her over 6-7 hours on a wagon train in the Blue Ridge
Mts and neither her or myself were sore.After a week
of this ride we still were fine.I'm now in the market
for a Western Ortho-Flex for my husband to ride in.I
feel they are well worth the money.

Joyce
Clover Oaks Farm Fjords
  In sunny Florida
Yahoo! Movies - coverage of the 74th Academy Awards®
http://movies.yahoo.com/

Re: Saddles

[Marsha Jo Hannah]

This message is from: Marsha Jo Hannah <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

> From: "Richard Stewart" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> Date: Fri, 22 Mar 2002 09:22:12 -0800

Hmmm, I see that FJORDHORSE is still "constipated".  Richard's message
took 2+ DAYS to get to me

> Does anyone have an opinion on Orthaflex saddles for Fjords.
> Do they fit?  Do they cause soreness?  Any input concerning
> Orthaflex would be appreciated.  Thanks.

The biggest problem is WHICH OrthoFlex?  Over the years, the OrthoFlex
company has made several models, using multiple technologies of "flex
fit".  Recently, the original company went under, and the name was
bought by someone else.  My experience has been with a 1989
Traditional model, custom-fit to my husband's "oil drum" Fjord
gelding, and a 1991 Express model, semi-custom made for my Fjord
gelding, who almost has withers.  Both saddles are on western-like
trees, with no horns, and very hybrid riggings for the girths and
stirrups.

The 1989 saddle fit that horse very well, and solved some behavioral
problems we were having.  (I think the poor horse had probably never
seen a saddle that didn't rub/poke somewhere!)  However both my
husband and I find the seat of the saddle to be mildly
uncomfortable---it has "corners" over the tree, and gives me the
impression that the saddle tree wasn't perfectly upright, when it was
shimmed underneath to fit the casting we made of the horse's back.

The 1991 saddle came with neoprene shims, to be put into the saddle's
"booties" (fake fleece fitted half-pads), to "adjust" the fit.  I
never did find a combination that I thought was a really GOOD fit,
although without any shims, the fit is certainly adequate.  I have had
a problem with the rear edges of the "flex panels" wearing the hair
off of my horse's loins.  (I hear that endurance vets have named this
the OrthoFlex rub!)  On the short rides that we do (did?), it never
got to the point of causing sores, probably because Fjords have lots
of hair to spare.  ;-)  I find the seat of this saddle to be quite
comfortable.

BTW, neither of our horses can use the other's saddle, which would
lead me to disbelieve any "one size fits all" claims that the company
makes.

As with all things equine, YMMV

Marsha Jo HannahMurphy must have been a horseman--
[EMAIL PROTECTED]   anything that can go wrong, will!
15 mi SW of Roseburg, Oregon

Re: Saddles

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

I have been using Ortho-flex saddles on my fjords for 15 years, starting
with one of the first models.  They work very well.  Some of the models are
better for wide backs..The Trail Partner and the Tempe have wider gullets
and fit wider fjords as well as Fjords with less wide backs.  I think the
Baron also has a wider gullet.  I have at present the "Stitchdown" English
style, a trail pardner, Brazos and the Patriot.  I have been very happy
with them, but they must be girthed firmly, and used in the correct
position on the back.  Some will cause rubbing on the loins when use with
the attached "booties"  on some horses.  My big gelding has too much motion
in his back for the use of the booties, so I use a thin pad under the
saddle.  The Western models that work best for Fjords are thos with the
wider gullets and shorter trees:  the Tempe, and the Trail Partner.  There
are always Ortho-Flex on eBay..Right now there is a Trail Partner
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1814169080
and a Western Trail, which has the wide gullet but has a square skirt
instead of the round skirt.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1814367610

I hope this helps.

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, sunny and will be +40 today, with 12 1/2 hours
sunlight
>Does anyone have an opinion on Orthaflex saddles for Fjords.
> Do they fit?  Do they cause soreness?  Any input concerning
>Orthaflex would be appreciated.  Thanks.


Jean Ernest
Fairbanks, Alaska
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Saddles and Randys illness

[wilson964]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Sue:  OE and I send our best wishes for Randy and you.  
I pray that you both will weather this illness and have 
positive results.
Merry Christmas and hopefully a healthful New Years.

pat
ttfn
> This message is from: "Sue" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> 
> >A question on western saddles...Isn't the semi-quarter >bars the narrowest
> tree?  I
> >thought that the sizes went from Arab tree (widest), to >Quarter Horse, to
> Semi- (for
> >narrower horses).  But folks are finding the narrowest >one fits the
> Fjords?
> 
> Well I have a semi -quarter bar in the western Wintec saddle that I bought
> this past summerand it does appear to fit Storm...Yet!  Although he is
> only 2 1/2 years old and we have of course just set it on him and lightly
> cinched him upbut I do have my fingers crossed that it will continue to
> fit him.
> 
> Well  my hubby and I have had a rough fall.  As I mentioned in a previous
> letter, I broke my ankle.  I am getting around now (7 weeks later) by
> wearing a Breg splint boot.   Randy took sick a  couple of months ago and
> after being misdiagnosed and given medicines that did not work, finally got
> in so much pain that he was hospitilized 3 weeks ago.  C.T. scans were taken
> and various tests.  It turns out he has a non Hodgkins type of Lymphoma.
> This is very scary but according to the cancer specialist his prognosis is
> good.  He had his first Chemo treatment today and if all goes well he will
> be released tomorrow.  He will have 5 more treatments spaced 3 weeks apart.
> When I spoke with him tonight, he was very nauseated and had just been given
> a gravol needle.  Apparently, his immune system will be comprimised by the
> chemo...so we hope and pray he does not pick up a flu or cold.  What a fall
> this has been!  But in spite of all this, I have managed to go on line and
> order gifts from Sears so hopefully Santa will come after all.  My prayers
> were answered when Randy's illness turned out to be treatable and hopefully
> curable.  Keep us in your thoughts everyone, and have a Merry Christmas.
> Sue in N.B. (Desert Storm's mom)

Re: saddles & ambassadors

[Hope Carlson]

This message is from: "Hope Carlson" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Ebay has some saddles listed under haflinger and icelandic for pretty
reasonable, look interesting.

Took the ponies to the church picnic.
They were big hits with the kids, gave tons of pony back rides.  Very proud
of them.
Had lots of inquiries about sales, referred them to the local breeder.  Lots
of activity,
noise, windy, rainy yet they stayed very calm and good with the kids.

Love my boys, BJ and Thor

Hope
N IL

Re: Saddles

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

One idea might be to try a saddle with a tree designed for gaited horses,
to accomodate big shoulders.  I would be curious to try one of these
myself, I suspect they might have more "sway" in the bars, also.  See one at:
http://www.bufordsaddle.com/bighorn/saddles.htm

scroll down until you come to the "Gaited Horse Saddle By Big Horn"


Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, where we did have frost this morning when the
sun came up. high of 55 degrees today. 
At 10:36 AM 9/29/2001 EDT, you wrote:
>This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
>
>hi sue
>
>number for big horn is 1-800-251-6284  - good luck! - will let you know as 
>soon as we try an extra-wide on our fjords
>
>mary harvey
>
>
>

Jean Ernest
Fairbanks, Alaska
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Saddles

[Jimaryjmh]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

hi sue

number for big horn is 1-800-251-6284  - good luck! - will let you know as 
soon as we try an extra-wide on our fjords

mary harvey

Re: Saddles

[Storme Lee]

This message is from: Storme Lee <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Jordans saddle was the Big Horn Synthetic, brown in color...it worked
great on him...sold it with him...it was a good price too around $300 or
$350.extra wide tree.

Storme


[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> 
> hi
> 
> i have been told by our local saddle shop that Big Horn makes a synthetic
> western saddle that comes in semi, full and extra-wide quarter horse bars
> (another  word for tree) - our saddle shop owner thinks our fjords will take
> an extra-wide bar - i can't, however, substantiate that for these saddles are
> on back order and we've yet to try them out on our fjord - i do have an 800
> number for big horn if you would like to locate a dealer near you
> 
> the mornings are cool in the virginia mountains
> mary harvey

Re: Saddles

[Jimaryjmh]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

hi

i have been told by our local saddle shop that Big Horn makes a synthetic 
western saddle that comes in semi, full and extra-wide quarter horse bars 
(another  word for tree) - our saddle shop owner thinks our fjords will take 
an extra-wide bar - i can't, however, substantiate that for these saddles are 
on back order and we've yet to try them out on our fjord - i do have an 800 
number for big horn if you would like to locate a dealer near you

the mornings are cool in the virginia mountains
mary harvey

Re: Saddles for Sale

[Mike May, Registrar NFHR]

This message is from: "Mike May, Registrar NFHR" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

At 02:04 PM 3/28/01 -0800, you wrote:



 Also
> could you link this to www.nfhr.com?  I found your site off someone elses
> web site.  Thanks Becky Hope, Pleasant Hill OR


The www.fjordsusa.com/ site is linked from the nfhr "links" page already.



===

Norwegian Fjord Horse Registry
Mike May, Registrar
Voice 716-872-4114
FAX 716-787-0497

http://www.nfhr.com
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Saddles for Sale

[Nancy Haas]

This message is from: "Nancy Haas" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>


From: "[EMAIL PROTECTED]" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Reply-To: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com
To: 
Subject: Saddles for Sale
Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2001 14:04:20 -0800

This message is from: "[EMAIL PROTECTED]" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hello All... A message from a trail rider  she has saddles that fit
fjords for sale...

Please contact her directly at [EMAIL PROTECTED] .

Below was her message to me.
Catherine Lassesen

- Original Message -
From: "Becky Hope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Wednesday, March 28, 2001 12:22 PM
Subject: Saddles


> Catherine:  Just found you new Web site [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> I was looking for a place to advertise Looking for Two Saddles wide
> enough for Fjords  I have a new horse that is overweight and though I am
> working on fixing this problem.  I have him and another fjord that have 
a
> flatter back.  I have lucked into Saddles in the past that have been 
wide

> enough, but don't think my luck is going to be that good this time.
> Where on your web site do you think I could advertise this need?  Also
> could you link this to www.nfhr.com?  I found your site off someone 
elses

> web site.  Thanks Becky Hope, Pleasant Hill OR
Hello...What is the proper name of the fjordusa website...I did a search 
and it came back...no server found"...Thanks...Nancy


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Re: Saddles for Sale

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Catherine, reading her message, it seems she is LOOKING FOR saddles that
fit fjords, not selling any?

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska

>From: "Becky Hope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>> Catherine:  Just found you new Web site [EMAIL PROTECTED]
>> I was looking for a place to advertise Looking for Two Saddles wide
>> enough for Fjords  I have a new horse that is overweight and though I am
>> working on fixing this problem.  I have him and another fjord that have a
>> flatter back.  I have lucked into Saddles in the past that have been wide
>> enough, but don't think my luck is going to be that good this time.
>

Jean Ernest
Fairbanks, Alaska
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Saddles for Fjords

[Jean Gayle]

This message is from: "Jean Gayle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Brigid the treeless I saw was an English one with no pommel or cantle, just
flat and it looked about two inches thick.  The trainer was small and easily
threw it over the different backs.  She "loved" it.





Jean Gayle
Aberdeen, WA
[Authoress of "The Colonel's Daughter"
Occupied Germany 1946 TO 1949 ]
http://www.techline.com/~jgayle
Barnes & Noble Book Stores

Re: Saddles for Fjords

[Epona1971]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Thanks Curt for the info on various saddles. I have seen the Ansur's web 
site. Interesting how the Orthoflex was one of the first "different" saddles 
to consider the horse's comfort, yet it is still stuck in  "tree" mode.

I really prefer riding bareback, but don't feel safe doing this on the road 
or trail. So the treeless should suit me just fine. Call it "bareback with 
insurance."

Brigid in CA

Re: Saddles and heat bumps and colic

[Ralph Delgado]

This message is from: "Ralph Delgado" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

you guys should look into synergist saddles.  i got one and both i and my 
horses loveit!  they fit it to your horse.  denise delgado




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Re: Saddles and heat bumps and colic

[Don & Jane Brackett]

This message is from: Don & Jane Brackett <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Ortho flex saddles.  Yes they do fit the Fjords well if the trees are
made by ortho flex.  I found that some of the english saddles (UK
series) do not fit like the others.  I have an endurance ortho flex that
fits alot like the western and stitchdown etc. and fits my Fjords well. 
However, the UK saddles are saddles made in England on a regular tree
with ortho flex panels screwed on to the tree. I found that on my
Fjords, the panels were pushed to the largest possible up against the
wooden tree above.  This made the panels, stiff and hard points that
pinched, without being able to flex. The ortho flex co. confirmed this
when I sent pictures into them to look at.  The ortho flex rep. said
that the UK series were originally built to fit the Thoroughbred etc.
and would fit wider but not as wide as my horses. He also said that they
have a new line of english saddles in the works. So the best rule of
thumb is to try any saddle out and get advice on fit if you're not sure,
BEFORE you buy it!! 

Jane in snowy Maine, but not for long it's supposed to warm up into the
40s and rain tomorrow. :(

Re: Saddles and heat bumps and colic

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Yes, Karen, I do like the Ortho-Felx, but they aren't perfect either! If
you do find an older used one, be careful that the flexible panels aren't
too long for your fjord's back.  They now have shortened their panels,
really improved them.  You can send an older saddle in for an upgrade, but
it will cost. I have, at the moment, four Ortho-flex: two western style and
two Stitchdown English. (I couldn't resist bidding on another Stitchdown on
eBay and got it for a good price!) Now the Ortho-Flex on eBay invariably
bring a high price, the word is out and people snatch them up, but it is a
good place to check.

One of the OF dealers that has a bunch of saddles in stock has a list of
used ones also. Hill View Farms, Phone 1-507-723-5937 
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
They also may give you a discount on new models.  Also, may actually let
you TRY the saddles and return it if you don't like it, something the
Company no longer does.
And if you get the synthetic "soft steel" models You can save a bunch.  The
Ortho-flex company often has special models for a more reasonable price
also.Check their website:
http://www.ortho-flex.com/

SADDLE PLACEMENT! This is a personal gripe!  So many times I see pictures
of Fjords with the saddles set too far forward, right over their shoulder
blades! 
I know about this..I did it myself when I first got Stella.  I got a Sharon
Saare endurance saddle, and to even approximate a fit I set it way up on
her shoulders and even then it bridged! She was the most stubborn,
difficult and grouchy ride, for this novice, whirling around to bolt back
home, fighting the reins, etc. until some time into the ride, when her
shoulders got numb to the pain, I guess. Lucky for me she was nice enough
not to buck!  I didn't think about it being the saddle, but I knew the
saddle didn't fit well.  I saw an ad about the new Ortho-flex saddles and
ordered one.  When it came, Stella was huge in foal and it didn't fit, but
it did fit the new Fjord gelding, Bjarne, that had just arrived, so I rode
him with it, no problems.  Later, when Stella's foal was a couple months
old and the saddle fit her, I saddled her up for the first time in six
months and rode her AWAY from her foal for the first time, with no fuss or
problems from her.  SADDLE FIT! 

So if your Fjord wants to bolt back home, refuses to leave the barn,
stumbles, is short strided, etc, Check where you have placed the saddle! Is
it too far forward over their shoulders? Does it bridge?

One saddle maker that I would like to check out, Dave Genadek, has
addressed this issue of flare  at the shoulders and dip in the bars, etc.
He has also put out a good basic video on saddle fit, showing you how to
check the fit and how to remedy bad fit with proper padding.  If I didn't
already have so many saddles I would be tempted to have him make a saddle,
or at least try some of his trees.  His saddles, basic price, are about
$1200 and his website is  http://www.aboutthehorse.com/

I am particularly intrigued by his new Ladies Trail saddle:
"What really sets David’s work apart is his keen pursuit of both
equine and human anatomy. About the Horse, Inc., has
recently introduced its "Ladies’ Trail Saddle," with an
absolutely wonderful seat designed by a full-bodied woman for
full-bodied women."

I have no affiliation with this company, just think the ideas sound great!

Well, I'd better end this long discourse and go out and give my fjords
their midmorning snack...It is -25F this morning, still dark at 9:00 AM
with clear skies and no wind. Winter is here after all!

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska


 However>Yes, Alison, I agree that Orthoflex is a really good choice if you
can 
>afford them. ***Jean Ernest is a BIG fan and can 
>clue you in more about them.
it is really hard to fit a 
>fjord due to:
>a) the shortness of the back. They need a shorter saddle, usually a semi or 
>round skirted saddle.
>b) a little more 'dip" ( I didn't say sway!) in the back. Needs more "rock' 
>in the bars, preferably  if you get a tree made, FIT it to several fjords...
>and
>c) those darned shoulders! If you shorten the ends of the front bars, and 
>make them flare away from the shoulder, your horse will be happier.Also 
>flare the ends of the bars.

Jean Ernest
Fairbanks, Alaska
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Saddles and heat bumps and colic

[Karen McCarthy]

This message is from: "Karen McCarthy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>





From: Alison Bakken <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Hi Sue,

It sounds to me, like your saddle is too narrow for the horse.  Fitting
saddles to Fjords is a challenge.  The best fit that I have been able to
find is an Orthoflex saddle.


Yes, Alison, I agree that Orthoflex is a really good choice if you can 
afford them. If you are lucky, and find a used one, great!
They really fit a variety of backs. All my endurance friends use them and 
swear by them. They used to be quite ugly, (IMO) but in the last few years 
they are making more conventional models...Jean Ernest is a BIG fan and can 
clue you in more about them.
I have posted about this before, (saddle fitting fjords) and it may be in 
the archives, but to put it briefly, I think it is really hard to fit a 
fjord due to:
a) the shortness of the back. They need a shorter saddle, usually a semi or 
round skirted saddle.
b) a little more 'dip" ( I didn't say sway!) in the back. Needs more "rock' 
in the bars, preferably  if you get a tree made, FIT it to several fjords...

and
c) those darned shoulders! If you shorten the ends of the front bars, and 
make them flare away from the shoulder, your horse will be happier.Also 
flare the ends of the bars. Look at most bare trees - most are designed to 
lie almost flat on the back, end to end, with very little dip in the centre.


If you are presently using a western saddle with conventional  QH bars, 
these tend to be overly long, and will "bridge" over the lower part of the 
back, contacting mostly on the area just behind the withers, (or where they 
should be), and in front of the loins, over the kidneys.
Usually due to saddle placement & rider, there is more weight up forward, 
hence the typical galling/sores there. The horse can also be "tender" in the 
back area as well.
A far as pads go, I think a good Woolback pad made by Toklat can't be beat. 
Spendy, at about $80.00/USD, but still cheaper than the Professionals Choice 
 & similar type pads with all the foam etc.
I use these for everyday, as well as a good all wool blanket that I can 
re-fold as necessary.


Hope this helps...sorry if I got to overly detailed, but I had a great 
search to come up with a (western) saddle that would work on my critters.

Merry merry ho-ho-ho!

Karen McCarthy
Great Basin Fjords
Carson City, NV

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Re: Saddles and heat bumps and colic

[Alison Bakken]

This message is from: Alison Bakken <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Hi Sue,

It sounds to me, like your saddle is too narrow for the horse.  Fitting
saddles to Fjords is a challenge.  The best fit that I have been able to
find is an Orthflex saddle.

Alison Bakken in deep freeze Alberta

Re: Saddles and heat bumps and colic

[Jean Ernest]

This message is from: Jean Ernest <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Where are these white patches located?  Obviously there was more pressure
at these points.  if it was just the pad there would be a larger area of
white if pressure was even under the saddle. While the plastic bubble "air
ride' thing in the PC pad might cause heat, you could use a thin Synfelt or
airvent pad under it.

Putting a thicker pad under the pressure points only adds more
pressure...padding the withers with a thicker pad will cause the saddle to
bridge more. If the white patches are at the withers, then less padding
there and more under the middle of the saddle.  A good saddle fitting video
is the one from Dave Genedek:  check his website:
http://www.aboutthehorse.com/

"For the very modest price of $25, we
 have a 50-minute videotape entitled "About Saddle Fit" which clearly
illustrates the principles of saddle design and saddle fit. To order call
1-800-449-7409."

Jean in Fairbanks, Alaska, with moonlight on the snow and +15 F here at
home (-5 F at the Airport)

>Hi everyone...I have a question...are any of you familiar with
>Professionals choice saddle blankets?...The ones that rattle as if
>there is that bubble plastic insulation inside? My husband has one and
>used it under his western saddle while doing a 100 mile trip. The
>horse now has two hand size patches of white hair on an otherwise
>chestnut body. 

Jean Ernest
Fairbanks, Alaska
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: Saddles for roly poly fjords

[MyNorseHorse]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

In a message dated 10/30/00 6:11:22 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:


> One mare got bad
> girth sores, so we used a fuzzy girth cover. 

I use a "synthetic" girth that has a fuzzy padding thing attached to it.  I 
toss the thing in the washer when it gets gross.  It even has double sided 
elastics to fit B when he gets blimpy from grass.

Kate in CT
Owned by Baldur
Grad B pony clubber from Mystic
ARIA certified instructor
Mystic Pony Club egroups moderator

Re: saddles for Fjords

[Nancy Newport]

This message is from: "Nancy Newport" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Regarding the saddle I bought for Pauline, I was looking for a synthetic
child's saddle with a wide tree and wide gullet.  I bought the Wintec 500
(English all purpose) which is available at many websites and catalogs.  It
runs from about $320-$340 as I recall.  I bought mine from Horsin'Around and
I think my total bill was $389 including the change out of the gullet to
extra wide and leathers, etc.

I was unable to find a child's synthetic western saddle anywhere that had a
wide tree and gullet.  Some  people advised me to get the full quarter horse
bars for a Fjord, but I only found synthetic saddles with semi quarter horse
bars.  I think you can get nice leather children's show saddles that would
fit, but they are expensive and mold quickly in Florida.

For myself I have an OrthoFlex that I have had for at least 10 years and it
fits Pauline, but again it's leather and they are also expensive.

I would be very interested if anyone has found a child's synthetic western
saddle (13" or so) for broad backed horses or ponies.

Regards, Nancy Newport

P.S.  It's cooling off here in Florida and I have 3 horses to drive and a
new Fjord 2 year old (Tamara from the Wichs) to get started.  And now that
all the horses are growing coat, I need to trace clip them all as it still
can get very warm during the winter!  Too much to do!

Re: saddles

[GailDorine]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

In a message dated 6/16/00 3:42:12 PM Mountain Daylight Time, 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

<< you have all just exhausted the subject of saddles  >>
I'm still willing to listen.  I skip over the jokes usually, but never a 
paragraph on saddles.  There's a lot to learn and it's a subject not easily 
exhausted.  And here in the sticks, there aren't that many I can look at.
  Gail in Las Cruces

Re: Saddles and Horse show Rules

[MyNorseHorse]

This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Is Libby AHSA recognized?  If it is then they will follow AHSA rules.  You'll 
need to find someone with a current rulebook to find that info out.

Kate in CT
mom to Baldur

Re: Saddles

[Lori Albrough]

This message is from: Lori Albrough <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

sini seppala wrote:
> Hello all, would be nice to know what you think about Ortho-Flexes and
> Ultra-Flexes 

Sini, I got an Orthoflex for my rather round mare last fall, and she moves
MUCH BETTER in it! She used to be quite pokey but now trots and canters
joyfully. I have the English All-purpose model. On my other girls with more
withers I just use my regular Stubben, but I believe the OrthoFlex would fit
them fine too. 

Lori A.

Re: Saddles

[Jean Gayle]

This message is from: "Jean Gayle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Paula, I saw this saddle at a boarding barn where my friend had taken her
thoroughbred for training.  The trainer rode the thoroughbred with the
saddle, finished, placed the saddle on a small Arab and went back into the
ring.  I was impressed.  It is also light weight.



Jean Gayle
Aberdeen, WA
[Authoress of "The Colonel's Daughter"
Occupied Germany 1946 TO 1949 ]
http://www.techline.com/~jgayle
Barnes & Noble Book Stores

Re: saddles...again!!!!!!

[Mary Thurman]

This message is from: Mary Thurman <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>



--- Denise Delgado <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> This message is from: "Denise Delgado"
> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> 
> thanks mary,
> your post was educating for me in regards to
> saddles.  why do so many people
> out there like (love) those aussie saddles? 

Good question.  Admittedly, they are not cheap if you
buy the 'real thing' made in Australia!  I think it is
because they are more secure than an english saddle,
but not as 'restrictive' as a western saddle.  Plus
the 'style' of them is more english looking.  Also,
for people who are looking for a non-english saddle to
fit a Fjord, they used to be about the only game in
town.  I've seen a couple of recent posts which say
they are 'heavy' - 30 to 32 pounds.  Guess these
people haven't lifted an older western saddle lately! 
The really new western saddles - made of Cordura and
other synthetics - are around 25 pounds, but my old
one weighs around 40 pounds.  Uff Da!!  However, my
horse is pretty short so it isn't all that far up to
his back from the saddle rack.


 what
> are the benefits verses
> disavantages to the forward sitting placments and
> also the legs?

The Aussie puts your seat at about the same place as
you would sit on the horse if riding bareback.  It's
easier to balance there, and it's easier on the horse.
 He can balance the rider's weight better if it is
more towards his withers.  If you sit right in the
middle of his back, his back gets tired, and the gaits
feel rougher to the rider.  Also, if he makes a sudden
movement, it's harder to catch your balance if you are
right in the middle of his back.  An Aussie has 'free
swinging' stirrups, like an english saddle, so you can
position your legs forward, center, or in between -
keeps your legs from getting as tired, takes the
strain off your lower back, makes balancing easier. 
You actually sit in it with your thighs under the
"poley" ears, knees slightly bent, heels down, leg
going slightly forward of your butt.  In the older
western saddles this was NOT possible.  Your leg went
straight down and stayed that way.  Not very
comfortable over a long ride.  
 
but then i/ve
> heard they can be a bugger to get out of in a
> hurry... 

I've never had any trouble 'bailing out' of one.  Only
did it a couple of times, though.  Guess you need to
be familiar enough with the saddle to remember that
your leg has to come back - out from under the 'poley'
- before you can jump off.  Believe me, you are more
apt to get your jacket or shirt caught on the horn of
a western saddle when bailing out, than to get stuck
in an Aussie.  Of course, the idea is supposed to be
that you don't "bail out" - that's why the Aussie is
built like it is, so the rider can stay put no matter
what the horse does.

Mary

=
Mary Thurman
Raintree Farms
[EMAIL PROTECTED]


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Re: saddles...again!!!!!!

[Denise Delgado]

This message is from: "Denise Delgado" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

thanks mary,
your post was educating for me in regards to saddles.  why do so many people
out there like (love) those aussie saddles?  what are the benefits verses
disavantages to the forward sitting placments and also the legs?  i
understand the security of the deeper seat, that's easy.  but then i/ve
heard they can be a bugger to get out of in a hurrydenise

Re: saddles...again!!!!!!

[Don & Jane Brackett]

This message is from: Don & Jane Brackett <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

Denise - My husband bought an Aussie saddle this spring and loves it. 
He says it's impossible to fall out of! :)  But his is heavy, around 30
- 32 lbs.  After trying to make my old all purpose work on my wide mare,
I started shopping for a new saddle.  I wanted (and still do) a dressage
saddle for arena work but found a nice light 20 lb aussie saddle that
was affordable.  It fits my mare wonderfully and is a great trail
saddle.  Scrambling up and down steep hills, scary chainsaws starting up
and other more "athletic" moves are no problem.  Very sucure deep seat
and spreads the weight out over a large portion of her back. And on her
wither-less back it doesn't slip! Amazing!
Jane,
in Maine where it is way too cold (-15 this am) but where we finally got
some snow.

Re: saddles...again!!!!!!

[Mary Thurman]

This message is from: Mary Thurman <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>



--- Denise Delgado <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> This message is from: "Denise Delgado"
> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
  what type of
> riding do you do now as
> opposed to before with the aussie saddle? 

Denise,

When I used my Aussie saddles only I pretty much rode
everywhere - they are not limited in their use that
way.  I rode in parades, at the beach, down the road,
on trails, etc.  However, when attending shows back
then an Aussie saddle was a bit of a quandry for the
judges/class stewards.  They weren't sure what to do
with it.  Western riders complained that it was NOT
western style - even though I used a western bridle
and bit.  And it DEFINITELY was NOT English!!  What to
do with it?  In the early Libby shows everything and
everyone was pretty "laid back", so there really was
no problem with it.  I dressed western and went in the
western classes.  As things became more "organized" it
became obvious that the saddle was a "misfit" and I
would have to do something else - or not enter in
shows.  About the same time I began taking
riding/training clinics given by Wil Howe.  For these
you REALLY DO need a true western saddle - for various
reasons related to the training - which is ongoing -
part of the method.  So I found an old western saddle
- about 40 years old - that is comfortable and traded
my newer Aussie in on it.  This old saddle is very
comfortable and secure, has lots of ties for trail
equipment, has a low, flat horn, AND has a silver horn
ornament that is coveted by every cowboy I meet! 
Extra bonus!  I kept the old Aussie to use on Line
when I ride her and to use on her for the grandkids. 
I don't like to put them on her bareback.  She's so
wide I'm afraid they'll slide off with nothing to hang
on to!

Hope this answers your question.

Also, I know some people question whether a saddle
riding further forward on the withers is a good idea. 
The "further forward" here refers to the fact that an
Aussie - properly fitted - rides in the hollow behind
the shoulder muscles similar to where a jumping saddle
rides(so I've been told), as opposed to a western
saddle which puts the rider's weight mostly in the
middle of the horse's back - especially on Fjords
which tend to be short backed.  In fact, that is the
reason I bought an Aussie saddle in the first place. 
Most of the western saddles available at the time were
so "long" that I was sitting in the middle of the
horse's back and the saddle extended over their rump. 
Not good.  Nowadays western saddles are available in
smaller models which fit a Fjord better.  The REALLY
old saddles - like mine - had only one cinch, called a
"center fire" cinch, so the saddles were shorter. 
Then everyone got the idea they needed TWO cinches (a
la roping saddle) to look "macho" or "western" so the
saddles got longer - too long for a short-backed
horse.  Now we are swinging back towards lighter,
smaller western saddles again, thank heavens.  Those
of us with "iffy" backs appreciate the lighter weight
when swinging those saddles up on the horse - and I'm
sure the horses appreciate it after a long day.

There, now you know pretty much everything I know
about saddles, which isn't much.  Hope it helps.

Mary



  

=
Mary Thurman
Raintree Farms
[EMAIL PROTECTED]


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Re: saddles...again!!!!!!

[Marion Bijster]

This message is from: "Marion Bijster" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>


-Oorspronkelijk bericht-
Van: Denise Delgado <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Aan: fjordhorse@angus.mystery.com 
Datum: woensdag-januari-2000 3:53
Onderwerp: Re: saddles...again!!


>This message is from: "Denise Delgado" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
>what can any of you tell me about aussie saddles and fitting fjords.  a
>friend told me they are very light, comfortable and can be made to fit any
>horse and you use minimal padding underneath and they are deeper and you
sit
>up closer to the withers, over the shoulders.  any experience with these
>saddles, out there?  denise in rainy and windy northern calif.
>
>Hi,

I have always ridden my Fjords with a Kieffer dressage saddle, which has e
special belt for horses built like Fjords.  Round like an egg, so to say

and the saddle fits weel

Marion