Saddle flap change?

[YoungNag22]

Does anyone know if Saddlers are able to change the flaps on a saddle? I have a Harry Dabbs GP but need to change to jump flaps so was wondering what the chances are of being able to have just the flaps changed by Harry Dabbs directly without the need to get a whole new saddle?

 

[sbloom]

It's not usually as simple as that, as jump saddles have a different bar placement and may need other alterations to take a more forwards flap, but also the whole saddle has to be taken apart to do it, so it's not cheap. I would contact Harry Dabbs but do work with a good fitter to make sure you don't end up with something that you hate and won't sell because it's not a standard saddle.

 

[YoungNag22]

It's not usually as simple as that, as jump saddles have a different bar placement and may need other alterations to take a more forwards flap, but also the whole saddle has to be taken apart to do it, so it's not cheap. I would contact Harry Dabbs but do work with a good fitter to make sure you don't end up with something that you hate and won't sell because it's not a standard saddle.

Thank you so much for your reply. Maybe im naïve in thinking its a simple change of flap lol! I love Harry Dabbs saddles, they suit me and my horse perfectly - just need a bit extra support for my leg when jumping! I have contacted them just to explain that and see what they can offer but maybe will need to sell my GP and get a jump at some point!

 

[jnb]

Thank you so much for your reply. Maybe im naïve in thinking its a simple change of flap lol! I love Harry Dabbs saddles, they suit me and my horse perfectly - just need a bit extra support for my leg when jumping! I have contacted them just to explain that and see what they can offer but maybe will need to sell my GP and get a jump at some point!

I've got a Harry Dabbs IB, the knee rolls are Velcro ones, can you perhaps get the bigger blocks to help? You may not need a new saddle then? I ride daily in fairly big blocks but my saddler got me the smaller ones if I want to show low level or dressage in this saddle, just a thought?

 

[sbloom]

Support doesn't necessarily mean a more forwards flap, I really would work with a fitter to see what you need. Bigger blocks, more set back bar, shims under the skirts, there are so many other things that may make the saddle work better for you. And have it checked that it's in balance, if it's low in front it can look and feel too straight cut and your leg drops down without support, if too high in front you'll be in a chair seat with knees more likely to go over the front. Issues that are really poorly understood as they're a bit subtle/complex but a good fitter should help you.