working hunter saddles ?

[NeverSayNever]

tell me about WH saddles please... how would you describe the cut in comparison to other styles? Am I right in thinking they are more forward cut than a plain showing or dressage saddle but not as forward as jumping saddles. So possibly cut more like a straighter GP but with a longer flaps? Im a little confused. Also, would you choose a GP or dressage saddle cloth to go under one? thanks!

 

[conniegirl]

Generally they are show saddles with bigger knee rolls. Neither a gp nor dressage numnah will fit. The dressage is too straight cut the gp far to forward cut.

 

[NeverSayNever]

Generally they are show saddles with bigger knee rolls. Neither a gp nor dressage numnah will fit. The dressage is too straight cut the gp far to forward cut.

ok thanks , another stupid question then... what is the difference between a dressage and a show saddle? Both being straight cut?

 

[conniegirl]

Show saddles are not quite as straight cut as dressage saddles, they have shallower seats, lower profiles, small or no knee roll. Basically they do not hold you into the saddle like a dressage one does

 

[sbloom]

Dressage saddles are designed around rider need - longer stirrups need a straight flap and a set back stirrup bar, the deep seat and big blocks are entirely optional and came about more recently. I fit a lot of WH saddles and for low level dressage they can be great - they are "more" saddle than a flat showing saddle, usually a slightly deeper seat, bigger knee roll and fractionally more forwards flap. But like all saddle types, they vary. Some will look more like a VSD flap, some will look like a flat showing saddle, but it will offer a little more support. They have been designed primarily around the show ring requrements to show off the shoulder, while allowing the rider more comfort and support over fences. They are definitely nothing like jump saddles

 

[Splashy pony]

I have one and really like it. I do a bit of dressage in it (better than my last GP) and have just started popping tiny jumps finding there is enough knee support. Numnahs don't fit. I use either a saddle cloth or a half pad.

 

[conniegirl]

Splashy pony you can get numnahs specialt made to fit WH saddles.
I've gone xc in my ideal Ramsey! A friend of mine events in hers!

 

[NeverSayNever]

thanks all! Im going to be looking at a black country grafter WH but Im used to something that is really quite forward cut with big knee rolls, however Im limited as to what will fit my pony.

 

[redheadkelj]

Working hunter saddles are great! Far better for all disciplines IMO than a GP. I've evented in mine for 16 years and love it. Straight enough for stressage but enough of a knee roll to give you something to grip sj but not restricting in any way. If I could have a WH on my new boy I would every time!