Saddle brand fit query

[Jacksie]

Hi all. I would like to get a second saddle for my mare. She currently has a GP but I want to add a dressage saddle to my collection. If I got a dressage saddle in the same make as the GP, would you expect this to be a good fit for her or does the tree shape etc change depending on the type of saddle it is, even if it’s the same make?

I do of course have her saddle checked regularly and would have any new one fitted/checked. Just pondering as would like the same brand/make if possible. Thank you

 

[Wizpop]

My understanding is that th3 tree should be the same as the one you have. It would be the seat and flaps that would be different- always assuming that you’ve got the right tree on your existing saddle- which I’m sure you have

 

[little_critter]

Hmmm, I would say it depends. Some brands have models that have different shape trees. I think the Albion K2 jump fitted my boy ok, but the Albion SLK dressage saddle rocked on him. So don’t assume that all trees in a brand are the same shape.
Same make and model might be comparable, but just assuming all models across a brand have the same shape tree won’t work.

 

[MereChristmas]

As an example.
If you read the Harry Dabbs website it states how many trees they make that are used for their saddles of each discipline. There are a number of trees for each of GP, dressage and jump.
Other manufacturers may be different.

 

[planete]

For a second hand saddle you can check with the manufacturers to find out which tree is in the saddle by giving them the serial number I believe.

 

[Widgeon]

For a second hand saddle you can check with the manufacturers to find out which tree is in the saddle by giving them the serial number I believe.

Yes, I would email the manufacturers to find out what (if any) dressage saddles they built on the same tree as your GP. You might find that you need one of a similar vintage too - e.g. Wintec completely changed the tree in their Pro Dressage in 2010, so despite retaining the same name it's really an entirely different saddle.

That would give you a starting point, at least.

 

[sbloom]

Even the same tree may not work quite so well, the seat shape is mostly derived from the tree and the wrong tree shape can make your legs go forwards, not quite so bad in a jump saddle but not good in a dressage saddle. Work with a trusted fitter to get a saddle that works for your horse AND you.

 

[Jacksie]

Thanks all, lots of interesting points raised to consider and confirms my suspicions