Shires HI-LITE Saddles?

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miss_p

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Has anyone ever used one of these saddles? I need a saddle for my 3yr old Welsh Section A who is quite round and has no wither at the moment. I've tried a 15" Wintec with the extra wide gullet which is still too narrow, so I'm using a 2nd hand Gallop Equestrian saddle thats extra wide and that isn't great so I need a half decent one really!! I've read on ebay that the gullet on the HI-LITE saddle is 'hinged' so changes shape with your horse, but I'm a bit worried about it changing shape and moving when I'm riding. Anyone ever tried one? Thanks in advance for your comments.
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Personally I would avoid them, I have never like the look of them as they seem really flimsy. Have you looked at the Thorowgoods?
 
I was thinking about the Thorowgood as well, I need an extra wide in a 15inch, I cant really go any bigger in the length as he has a short back. I'll have a look about, it seems harder to buy 15" saddles for some reason!! If anyone knows of any good ones that aren't gonna break the bank too much then let me know. Thanks xx
 
If a 15" wintec pony saddle fits, a 16" thorowgood will fit. Actually, I'm suprised the wintec wasn't far too long! They have very extended panels on the pony saddle and although the seat size is 15" (although a big 15"), the panels are equivelent to more like a 16" thorowgood. I found it a problem when I tried it on my mottly collection of little ponies. Fitted beautifully other than the length
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Certainly far too long for the welsh A's, and even too long for the welsh B.

I've never liked the idea of the hinged saddle and I suspect they cause nasty pressure points at the hinge. Plus the cheap saddles are cheap for a reason - the tree inside is just rubbish. Gallop saddles workmanship are appaling (I've yet to see one with a straight tree or symetrical panels.) and the rhinegolds are no better.

Is it for a large child or adult to ride in? If not the bigger cub saddles (12") work well on welsh A's. You can pick one up for under £50 too!
 
What size/age will the rider be? I wouldn't personally touch the Dhires one, and a 16.5" will be far too big. if it is for a child, the Safari Cub is excellent for little round welshies.
 
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