Discussion Topic - Saddles

[icestationzebra]

Apparently 21 January is the most depressing day of the year…. So to take your mind off it I have a question – or several as it turns out

What do you think are the benefits / disadvantages of latex filled panels as opposed to traditional wool flocked? Is the distribution of weight the same for both materials? I have (or will have when the second one arrives) one of each and are interested in your views with regard to comfort for the horse?

If you had to choose one, which would you go for and why?

Thank you!

 

[kerilli]

all my saddles bar one are wool flocked, serge lined. the other is the same saddle make and type, but latex filled, leather lined.
the horse in the latex/leather saddle is the only one who has lost muscle tone.
serge/white wool is warmer, softer, comfier imho, it is like sitting on top of two nice firm cushions on top of the horse. drawback is that it need the flock checking and altering more frequently.
i would always go for wool/serge, given the choice, no question.

 

[KatB]

Latex doesnt compress down unevenly, so you dont get a "lumpy" surface. Also moulds to the shape as does Flock. Flock is more adjustable though...weight bearing depends I think....

 

[icestationzebra]

Kerilli - out of interest is your latex filled saddle the same make/design as your other saddles?

 

[icestationzebra]

I guess flock will always be more adjustable - but do you think that saddle making will move on to use other materials in the future?

 

[KatB]

No I think Flock will still be a primary material, but obviously materials that wont ball up like flock can and offers a slimmer panel are obviously more suited to some more modern types of saddle. They also offer less maintenance and can be used on a variety of different horses as they dont "mould" like flock does, so wont hold the shape of one horse...