barrie swain semi flex

[Rhodders]

Considering purchasing one second hand for my Welsh d, can anyone tell me how true the "can be altered to fit any horse" statement I keep seeing on the ads is. And, if it is extremely adjustable, can it only be done by barrie swain? How does this process work?

 

[chestnut cob]

I wouldn't use anyone other than BS fitters now - had too many bad experiences with SMS "qualified" fitters. I have the model previous to the semi-flex, the holistic tree I think it's called (it has give in the tree) and it's a fabulous saddle. If you get the right fitter from BS, they're better than anyone I've ever used. I had a BS DR saddle and would v much like to get rid of my Ideal jumping saddle for a BS one!

 

[stimpy]

I have the model previous to the semi-flex, the holistic tree I think it's called (it has give in the tree) and it's a fabulous saddle.

I have this saddle too, it is bl**dy fantastic. I have used it on three different horses in the last four years and they have all gone brilliantly in it plus it's super comfy for me :-D

IMO no saddle can be adjusted to fit any horse as the depth of the gusset is a crucial element that is very difficult to change on a saddle. I have had my holistic saddle adjusted very successfully by my fabulous fitter but when I told him I was lusting after a semiflex he told me to stick with its predecessor as in his opinion the holistic is a much better saddle...!

 

[pansymouse]

Not sure about the semi flex tree and I'm also sceptical about the fit anything claims. However I'm complete Barrie Swain fan - I have Lauriche saddles which are no longer made but were made in Barrie's workshops - fantastically comfortable for the rider and the horse. I use Kay Humphries to fit and she works exclusively (I think) with Barrie.

 

[mega spoilt ponies]

I have a dressage, a gp and a jump, all of which have been adjusted to fit my various horses from flat backed friesian to warmblood to thoroughbred. There a a few saddlers local to me who adjust the trees but i just send mine up to the 'maker' and he sets them to the template provided.

They have corrected 3 bad backs on mine- same saddle- very different shaped horses

 

[lisa_dundee]

ive just bought a WH one and have a brand new dressage one to sell

 

[Red-1]

The web page and contact numbers have disappeared off the internet, so you may have trouble getting a fitter out for them. Even the facebook page is blank.

 

[Meredith]

Try Amanda Lennox, she's Wales / Shropshire border.

 

[mega spoilt ponies]

The Nick Dolman saddles are much better. (same concept/style - he worked with Barrie)

 

[mongy46]

I have an almost new one for sale its an event/jump 17 inch, set currently to medium wide.
Barry only charges £35 to alter