Albion K2 jump verses Ideal impala

[foxy1]

I tried an albion k2 and loved riding in it but unfortunately it didn't fit the horse, so looking at an ideal impala. Has anyone ridden in a k2 and an impala? If so, how does the ride of both saddles compare?
Thanks

 

[CAH7]

Yes, I found them both supportive but the K2 felt bulkier and the Impala less 'blocky' if that makes sense? The Impala seat also felt shorter, so there wasn't enough room for my long leg. I now have an Exselle Integra jump which is a monoflap with just a tiny block and fits us both really well.

 

[foxy1]

Hmmm I think it's the 'blocky' feeling I like in the k2. Or possibly the deep seat.
Thanks

 

[Copperpot]

I've recently had both. Preferred the Impala so sold my K2. K2 feels more supportive but I just liked the feel better of the Impala Pro.

 

[blood_magik]

I think you can customise the ideals? my saddler seemed to think that was an option iirc...

I preferred the K2 as I wanted bigger blocks for support and security.

 

[DonkeyClub]

I thought the impala was rubbish for rider comfort/ stability... Nothing like the amazing K2! However every person likes different saddles

 

[ihatework]

It doesn't really matter what other people like. It's what you like and what fits your horse.

I love the K2 jump, it seems to suit my body shape and riding style.

 

[foxy1]

I feel I may never find a saddle I love as much as the K2! Might try the blocky stubben (mf spezial)

 

[foxy1]

And next time I go horse shopping will have to take the saddle with me!

 

[foxy1]

I know ihatework, I'm asking if the 2 saddles feel similar to ride in (clearly not!)

 

[DonkeyClub]

Apparently the Antares monoflap will secure you into the saddle very well? It's a monoflap but does have a big cushion kneepad

 

[ihatework]

I know ihatework, I'm asking if the 2 saddles feel similar to ride in (clearly not!)

IMO they don't. I felt very perched and out of balance in the ideal.

 

[HotToTrot]

I love the Impala. Feel far more secure in it than the K2. In the K2, my lower leg flew back each time I jumped! I now have a Kontroll as well as the Impala, as the Kontroll fits him a bit better when he drops some weight over the winter.

 

[tilly_monster]

I've had both and hated both. I sold both saddles after three months.but my sister loved both saddles, but she all legs and I'm not

 

[beckygrahamm]

I have an albion k2 and I honestly wouldn't swap it for the world (apart from an 18" version now my youngster has turned into a giant)

 

[loopiesteff]

I LOVE my jumping k2! My leg position is so much better in it!

 

[Mithras]

I have an Ideal Patriot made to measure and it feels very similar to the Albion K2. I have heard that Albions aren't that great for horse's backs though, no idea if this is true.

 

[TarrSteps]

Leaving aside the fact that Albions don't really suit me, I think you need to be a bit careful about generalising now as so many saddles are semi custom if not actually made to measure, and you're not going to know which ones are stock or not when you try other peoples.

I actually think this is an area where we've made trouble for ourselves by getting too technical. It used to be you could pretty much tell what a model would feel like and adjustments, such as a longer flap or different block, were obvious. Now every saddle feels different!

 

[delaneys]

I love my K2 but it's slightly to long for my horse

 

[foxy1]

That's my problem too parkerpops- they are a lot of saddle for shorter backed horses.
Thanks all for replies. My (lifelong) quest for the perfect jumping saddle continues!

 

[LouisCat]

I rode a friend's horse in an impala and I absolutely loved it. I felt so locked in and secure in it, especially impressed considering I was riding an unknown horse