Collegiate saddles

[Orchardbeck]

Can anyone tell me anything about Collegiate saddles? Are they a similar tree to a Bates or a Wintec, and if so, what model? Are they any good?

 

[flipthelid]

I have a Collegiate GP. No idea what it is similar to, but its very comfortable, nice for schooling and jumping and fits my mw TB perfectly

 

[Mince Pie]

I've got one too for my TB. Very comfy and holds me in place when she's having a "speshul" moment (like broncing whilst heading down a very steep hill!).

 

[Orchardbeck]

What are the panels like - are they quite broad, or more narrow? I've never really looked at them properly before, but having considered that my mare is probably more of a wintec than a thorowgood shape, and I would prefer leather in the long run, I wonder if they may be worth a look.

 

[flipthelid]

They are fairly broad. My mare has quite a flat, wide back and she's really comfortable in it. Neither Wintec or Thorowgoods fitted her as well as the Collegiate.

 

[blackislegirl]

I too would vote for Collegiate. Each of my beasties has a Collegiate GP. They seem to be fairly straight cut but that suits my shortish legs. I like the plastic trees - the saddles are light enough to carry on one arm without effort. And I have had occasion once to get the gullet changed when my mare had lost her excess weight.