Henry James Bridle Quality

[BonnieGB]

Has anyone else had issues with Henry James bridles? I recently bought the 3d air headpiece and am disappointed in the quality. Have only had it for 3 weeks and have religiously followed the care instructions but it is showing signs of cracking on the surface of the leather and is not particularly soft at all. Not sure if it’s just a bad batch as they have lots of good reviews! I will be returning but unsure wether to exchange for another or get a refund and replace with something different? I have seen the sabre cordoba sensitive which I may replace it with if this is a recurring issue.

 

[Wizpop]

Only ever had a bridle from HJ and it was lovely! Think I’d be tempted to ask for an exchange first of all.

 

[Red-1]

I've never had a Henry James bridle but have had 2 Sabres and they have been magnificent. I barely clean them through winter yet, come summer, every year, they clean up to look good as new, even if I have to scrape mould off before cleaning!

Never had one crack! Not even the one I've had about 8 years.

I got the sensitive headpiece last year, swapped it out for the Cordobra headpiece I had been using, because BH deserves comfy ears. It is great. No so great where he has chewed it on the throat lash mindst you, but even that hasn't cracked where it has been chewed (although I did wave some saddle soap at it).

 

[w1bbler]

I've had my henry james bridle several years. It does a.otof riding in the rain as I live on Dartmoor, only gets looked after occasionally & still looks fab.
Their customer service is excellent, try sending it back

 

[Tiddlypom]

Having had both - upgrade to the Sabre Cordoba sensitive, you won't regret it.

HJ is 'OK', Sabre is the real deal.

 

[teacups]

Really? I got a Henry James bridle about 6 months ago, in part based on all the amazing reviews on this forum. Same headpiece. Definitely no cracking, and the leather feels lovely to me…
…however, I don’t have much experience of anything other than (putting it nicely) ‘very well-worn‘ tack. Also got something from English Bridles: seems very nice quality too.

 

[BonnieGB]

Thanks for all the replies, very helpful. HJ customer service have been very good but I have sent back and got Sabre instead. Already the leather seems more supple so pleased with the decision!