saddle hunting suggestions needed.

[lisa_lou]

Im looking to purchase a saddle for my 11.2 very round section A pony as he is rising 3 and want to throw the kids on in summer and get backing him slowly ready for the show season of 2013. he will be doing inhand ridden m+m and first ridden classes so what would be the best saddle to go for for a 5 yr old rider, i want it to be up to county level standard but not cost a fortune, any any particular makes favoured for childs classes?

 

[ThePony]

Flyde ones are generally thought well of for showing. I'd find a saddler that stocks them and see what they can do. They do tend to be v flat, so a saddle suitable for showing might not be the most secure choice for backing - I know I would prefer more help to stick on during any antics!

If possible you might want to look into second hand or adjustable initially as a horse or pony being backed and worked will usually change shape alot and it would be unusual for a saddle that fitted at the start of the process, to still fit after the pony has been in work for a while.