Theresa_F
Well-Known Member
I took the plunge and now am the owner of a Barefoot London (dressage) saddle. Bought a new one with the girth, pad and leathers from Horse & Harmony. Nice thing is that they said I could return it and get a refund if not marked if I didn't get on with it.
Well it is a bit different. Very comfortable and as I am used to riding western the slightly set back stirrups felt fine. Feels like a cross between western, english and bareback - you really can feel the horse, you feel as if you are sitting deep.
However, I can understand why some don't like it, you do need to have a secure seat and steady lower leg - was a bit wobbly at first on trotting but soon felt ok once I took my stirrups up a hole.
I have never known Cairo to go so well - he worked very round and moved like he has not done for years - really forward going and carrying himself. Walked, trotted and cantered and will have a go at a small jump shortly.
Chancer has been lunged in the new saddle and I have leaned over him - will now try him in once I have done a couple of more sessions on Cairo to make sure I am totally confident in the treeless.
If anyone who knows me and is at a show where we will be and wants to try it, let me know. It could be the answer to the ever expanding cob problem some of us have.
Certainly seems to fit both 15 hand cob Chancer and 16.3 clydesdale Cairo equally well.
Chancer will be able to compete dressage and start his showing career in it and maybe by the time I get to the stage I need a really good showing saddle, there will be a treeless option available.
For those with saddle problems and/or an ever growing youngster, this may be an option worth considering.
Well it is a bit different. Very comfortable and as I am used to riding western the slightly set back stirrups felt fine. Feels like a cross between western, english and bareback - you really can feel the horse, you feel as if you are sitting deep.
However, I can understand why some don't like it, you do need to have a secure seat and steady lower leg - was a bit wobbly at first on trotting but soon felt ok once I took my stirrups up a hole.
I have never known Cairo to go so well - he worked very round and moved like he has not done for years - really forward going and carrying himself. Walked, trotted and cantered and will have a go at a small jump shortly.
Chancer has been lunged in the new saddle and I have leaned over him - will now try him in once I have done a couple of more sessions on Cairo to make sure I am totally confident in the treeless.
If anyone who knows me and is at a show where we will be and wants to try it, let me know. It could be the answer to the ever expanding cob problem some of us have.
Certainly seems to fit both 15 hand cob Chancer and 16.3 clydesdale Cairo equally well.
Chancer will be able to compete dressage and start his showing career in it and maybe by the time I get to the stage I need a really good showing saddle, there will be a treeless option available.
For those with saddle problems and/or an ever growing youngster, this may be an option worth considering.
