Saddles Albion/Bates

[Kiko]

Hi Guys

Im buying a new saddle for my boy and my saddler will be trying out a couple of second hand saddles on - Albion and a Bates. I'm not sure which type but I know they will be GP. Does anyone have any views on them? My boy is six this year and a Dutch Warmblood X. Do they have scope to be adjusted to fit his shape if he changes? which will probably be likely! Saddler is going to call me back later so I will be able to ask her in more deph but just wondered if anyone on here had any views! Much appreciated xx

 

[KatB]

Bates are lovely saddles but have quite a curved tree so dont suit all types of horses. Albions are nicely made, but quite often have long points which can restrict the shoulder quite alot...both have their pros and cons tbh!!

 

[Drummer]

I have an Albion VSD which I love, it was an XW hooped tree one but where my horse has lost weight it has been sent to Albion to be altered into a MW. My saddler has loaned me an Albion GP which I am using at the moment and also very happy with.

Hope that helps at all

 

[Madam_max]

I 'think' the new Albion K2 is adjustable, the dressage one is, not sure about the GP.

 

[Parkranger]

No, K2 isn't adjustable - just brought one....absolutely love it though

 

[jo2601]

I have an Albion SLK and absolutely love it, wouldnt have anything else

 

[lastresort]

Had a K2 now have 2 bates. Prefer bates but depends what you are doing ??

Would reccomend both!

 

[Kiko]

fantastic! thanks. Planning on doing a bit of everything really! x

 

[BeckyD]

I have an Albion K2 GP - got it on Friday

Am totally in love with it, it's so comfy. I don't think the shape suits all horses, but suits my TB very well. The long points actually benefit him due to his shape, but saddler said they don't suit many horses.