Carbon fibre treed saddles - pros and cons and questions

[Cocorules]

There are increasing numbers of carbon fibre treed saddles on the market. I understand the chief pro is that it makes for a lightweight saddle. The new Barnsby itree saddle also has an adjustable carbon fibre tree. I am sure I have read somewhere, though I cannot think where, that carbon fibre treed saddles are of necessity close contact and so may not be suitable for longer hours in the saddle, especially with a less than perfect rider i.e. more suited to competion use where they may be used for short periods.

Is this correct?

Are there any other pros and cons?

Would you buy the Barnsby iTree saddle (or any other saddle with an adjustable carbon fibre tree) for a youngster and realistically expect it to be able to adjust to a growing youngster?

 

[Django Pony]

I have the GFS XCH http://www.gfsxch.co.uk/products/product.php?pid=3 which has a carbon fibre tree, making it very lightweight. It also has an adjustable gullet, so it can be adjusted.
I find it very comfortable, I've have done long pleasure rides in it with no problem. I would definitely class myself as a "less than perfect rider"!!

 

[jlrspr]

Carbon fibre tree's are now quite common and have been for a few years now, as are the plastic sima tree's which are also adjustable.
The tree's can be used with or without a close contact panel.
with an adjustable saddle which usually adjusts at the front, the saddle fitter will make sure that the tree of the saddle fits your horse correctly, when this is done, you can then adjust the front of the saddle as the horse grows or muscles up. the tree shape shoud fit you're horse for life as a thoroughbred will not turn into a cob or visa versa.