buying saddles

[siennamum]

I simply daren't buy a saddle from ebay, it needs to be fitted prior to purchase. So where do I buy a nice 2nd hand, wide 16" to 16.5" GP saddle from?
Anyone have any suggestions, I've tried the usual places with no joy.

 

[Kelly1982]

I get mine from a local saddler but also our local tack shop sells 2nd hand saddles and they will come out and fit them for you.

Failing that i brought one of mine off the net and then got a saddler to come out and check/fit it for me. I did buy from an online shop though rather than ebay as you dont really know what your getting and i was worried the tree could be broken or something.

 

[Alibear]

Ring round the local tack shops that have fitter and explain what I need and book them bring a selection out. I tend to tell them price range rather than it must be second hand.

 

[luane1]

I have actually bought 2 Albion saddles from ebay with great success I have been able to chat to the owners and sussed out that they were genuine. I also was able to borrow saddles from others in our yard and the YO helped me with the fit I wanted so I was able then to buy exactly the right size. It has meant that with a recognised brand that cost something over £900 I was able to buy for £500 in one case and £600 in the other. Good luck. I am an avid ebayer and get jods, show shirts, rugs, polypads, boots etc all at teriffic bargains and usually brand new.

 

[Bossanova]

There are a couple on Horsequest

 

[LEC]

Garratts are ace - give them a call!
I have had all my saddles from there for the last 20 years and have never had a horse with a sore back. My first one was for my 13hh SHP so they definately do ponies and some nice working hunter saddles which I always had. Even now have bought 3 saddles off them this year and get them checked for free and I always borrow several to try first for a couple of weeks.

 

[Happytohack]

Our local saddler is ace - brought out loads of saddles and then said he would leave me with a couple of them to try for a while if I wanted! Suggest you try local saddler.

 

[dieseldog]

Yes - why don't you try your Local saddler?

We might have some at home, I'll look in the tack room.