Quarter Horse Dressage Saddles
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Wintec Chafeless Elastic Dressage Girth $47.3 This girth has all the advantages of the original elastic girth but with the addition of a curved shape, which reduces the width of material behind the horse’s elbows helping to prevent pinching of the horse’s skin. The equisuede surface of the Pro Elastic Girth looks and performs stunningly when used to complement the Wintec Pro Dressage or Wintec Isabell saddles. |
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Puff Pad Dressage Style $24 Puff Pad Pillow Pads. Authentic Pillow Pad. Soft, pillow pad, top and bottom 100% cotton with thick poly fiber filler. A Puff Pad disperses pressure points, preventing many back problems. All horses benefit from the cushioning effect of a Puff Pad because the fiber filling acts as a shock absorber, breathes absorbing and evaporating moisture, molds to every horse and saddle. No straps. Dressage Pillow Pad. Larger 25 x 40 size for longer flap dressage saddles. |
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Gold Medal Piaffe Dressage Saddle $2319.95 GOLD MEDAL Piaffe Dressage Saddle GOLD MEDAL Piaffe Dressage Saddle GOLD MEDAL Saddlery has taken the similar design of the popular COUNTY COMPETITOR and Crosby Prix St. George dressage saddles and improved and refined the saddle to a superior high level dressage saddle. The Piaffe is made on a deep seat beechwood laminated spring-tree with narrow twist to put the rider into the seat and give close contact with the horse. A genuine pigskin seat is used because of its durability over grained leather seats which stretch and wear through, thus distorting the rider’s seat. French panels are wool flocked to allow the saddle to mold to the natural conformation of the horses back for the ultimate in fit and a correct seat position. Flap and panel have been designed to promote greater closeness and contact. Long chrome leather saddle billets require a short dressage girth. Saddle flap is looped on backside for billets to restrain flap. Made in England of the finest quality oiled saddle leather. |
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Regent Lonsdale Dressage Girth $51.95 REGENT Lonsdale Dressage Girth Short girth for long billet dressage saddles. Imported quality with buckle chafe ends. |
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EquiRoyal Dressage Girth $23.6 Dressage style girth made of soft choice leather in black. Designed for long billet saddles. |
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American Quarter Horse Throw $45.95 American Quarter Horse Throw. Cotton. 60 x 48. |
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Ovation Dressage Tee $13 Features the dressage-discipline horse logo print. Made of cotton/spandex jersey. |
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Tekna S Line Dressage Saddle $562.5 Developed for the serious rider, the new Tekna S Line Saddles offer the ultimate in adjustability. The latex/wool flocking eliminates lumps and bumps, and can still be reflocked in the traditional manner for a customized fit to your horse. Features the new QUIK-CHANGE(TM) Gullet System, changing the width of the tree is only two fasteners away! Comes with a medium gullet plate installed and gullet plate sizes Narrow, Medium, Medium/Wide, Wide, and Extra Wide are available for purchase (item# 468277). Made of anti-mold and abrasion resistant QUICK-CLEAN(TM) material which keeps the saddle looking new with minimal care. |
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(NEW 2012 Model) New Bates Dressage Flocked Saddle $1637.85 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! Crafted In the finest quality European leather, this saddle provides the ultimate connection with the horse through a seamless, ultra-narrow transition from the seat through the length of the leg. The saddle offers tremendous support for the dressage horse through the anatomic shaping of the tree, generous panel design and world leading performance systems. With flocked panels. |
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Gold Medal Covered Buckle Dressage Girth $79.95 Gold Medal Dressage Girth Made in England for long billet dressage saddles. Flaps snap over buckles. |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle with CAIR $1299 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! Experience the world’s leading dressage saddle, the Bates Isabell, in a synthetic version with the added benefits of being lightweight, durable, easy-care and an amazing value for the money. World renowned Dressage Rider, Isabell Werth’s high performance saddle.My saddle is one of the proudest achievements of my dressage career. I believe we have created the perfect seat for the rider and unprecedented comfort for the horse. Isabell WerthFeatures: Supports a correct dressage position with an ultra narrow waist and deep seatA seamless transition from your seat through the length of your leg offers ultra close contactIdeal for use in all levels of competition and trainingPerformance materials ensure superior fit, comfort and stabilityIncludes an adjustable Y-Girthing and Flexibloc SystemThe Isabell saddle is also available in BatesFluidly working with your horse’s muscles, the revolutionary CAIR Cushion System replaces traditional fillings in your saddle with air. The cushioning nature of air encourages your horse to soften, relax and engage. Seated closer to your horse, you become simply an extension of one another.Features the EASY-CHANGE Gullet system for a custom fit. Saddle comes with medium width gullet – other gullets sold separately.Ask about our TEST RIDE PROGRAM |
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(NEW 2012 Model) New Bates Dressage Cair Saddle $1637.85 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! The New Bates Isabell dressage Saddle is crafted In the finest quality European leather, this saddle provides the ultimate connection with the horse through a seamless, ultra-narrow transition from the seat through the length of the leg. The saddle offers tremendous support for the dressage horse through the anatomic shaping of the tree, generous panel design and world leading performance systems. And, the CAIR Cushion system allows for complete freedom of movement. |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Bates Innova Dressage Saddle $2299 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! From the original BATES, AUSTRALIA. The Bates Innova is the most innovative dressage saddle in the world. Groundbreaking innovations include the Contourbloc, anatomically contoured to the rider’s leg making it distinctly unique. Ride with confidence enjoying unprecedented security, as your leg effortlessly rides in and behind the bloc with no restriction. Contourblocs function in partnership with a deep, yet surprisingly open seat, providing instantaneous comfort, and a seamless transition for total engagement through effective communication. Innova features the ultimate performance panel with the CAIR Panel System for even weight distribution and the ultimate comfort for your horse. Couple this with the EASY-CHANGE Gullet System for unsurpassed flexibility in achieving an optimal fit.ENGAGE INNOVATION AND RIDE WITH CONFIDENCE.The Bates Innova features the revolutionary CAIR Panel System to facilitate greater communication, offering the ultimate comfort for your horse. Couple this with the EASY-CHANGE Gullet System and you achieve unsurpassed flexibility for an optimal fit for your horse, giving them the freedom to perform at their natural best. Click here for more information. |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Bates Isabell Dressage Saddle Classic Flock $2699 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! World renowned Dressage Rider, Isabell Werth’s high performance saddle. Effortlessly aligns rider position for superior performance. A deep and ultra close contact seat ensures improved communication. Maximizes freedom of movement and comfort for your horse. Innovations include uniquely positioned Ergonomic Stirrup Bar, adjustable Y-Girthing and Flexibloc Systems. |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Bates Isabell Dressage Saddle with CAIR $2699 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! World renowned Dressage Rider, Isabell Werth’s high performance saddle. Effortlessly aligns rider position for superior performance. A deep and ultra close contact seat ensures improved communication. Maximizes freedom of movement and comfort for your horse. Innovations include uniquely positioned Ergonomic Stirrup Bar, adjustable Y-Girthing and Flexibloc Systems. |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Wintec Pro Dressage Saddle with Cair $799 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! The new Wintec Pro Dressage achieves unprecedented comfort while supporting a correct and secure dressage position. Feature an ultra narrow waist enabling greater communication and contact between you and your horse.A cutting edge dressage saddle that includes top performance featuresIdeal for use in all levels of competition and trainingFacilitates a well balanced position and contact between horse and riderPerformance materials ensure superior fit, comfort and stabilityFeatures include adjustable Y girthing system and flexibloc systemFluidly working with your horse’s muscles, the revolutionary CAIR Cushion System replaces traditional fillings in your saddle with air. The cushioning nature of air encourages your horse to soften, relax and engage. Seated closer to your horse, you become simply an extension of one another.Features the EASY-CHANGE Gullet system for a custom fit. Saddle comes with medium width gullet – other gullets sold separately.Ask about our TEST RIDE PROGRAM |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Wintec Pro Dressage with Countourbloc Saddle with Cair $889 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! The new Wintec Pro Dressage with Contourbloc achieves unprecedented comfort while supporting a correct and secure dressage position. The saddle features an ultra narrow waist enabling greater communication and contact. The Contourbloc further enhances confidence and security.A cutting edge, dressage saddle that includes top performance featuresRevolutionary Contourbloc, offers exceptional support and stabilityIdeal for use in all levels of competition and trainingFacilitates a well balanced position and contact between horse and riderPerformance materials ensure superior fit, comfort and stabilityFeatures include adjustable Y girthing systemFluidly working with your horse’s muscles, the revolutionary CAIR Cushion System replaces traditional fillings in your saddle with air. The cushioning nature of air encourages your horse to soften, relax and engage. Seated closer to your horse, you become simply an extension of one another.Features the EASY-CHANGE Gullet system for a custom fit. Saddle comes with medium width gullet – other gullets sold separately.Ask about our TEST RIDE PROGRAM |
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Mountain Horse Victoria Dressage Boot $287.1 Exceptional craftsmanship makes the Victoria Dressage Boot stand out from the rest. Designed specifically for the serious dressage rider, the zipper is thoughtfully positioned forward of center on the inside of the boot, allowing seamless contact between your leg and your horse, while still maintaining a streamlined silhouette. An elegant dress boot with classic features and made in supple, full grain leather.THE LEG: Moderate Spanish cut topSoft pigskin napa liningStrong and durable full length YKK Vislon zipper on front, inside calfCovered, inside elastic gusset for a comfortable fitTHE FOOT: Spur restErgonomically-designed removable EVA insoleTHE SOLE: Built-in steel shank for increased stabilityDurable and slim-contour designed outsole has dirt repellent tread zones and provides an enhanced grip in the ironMaterial: Full grain leather.Lining: Pigskin napa. |
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Da Vinci Plain Raised Padded Dressage Browband $20.95 DaVinci Plain Raised Padded Dressage Browband Black Horse Size |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Wintec 500 Dressage Saddle with Cair $539 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! The new Wintec 500 Dressage Saddle sets new standards in comfort and performance helping position the rider correctly. New and improved Equileather provides a super soft and grippy seat for greater security in the saddle.Features: A modern, stylish dressage saddle with performance featuresThe perfect saddle for riders progressing in their Dressage careerExtremely comfortable seat that facilitates a well balanced positionPerformance materials ensure superior fit, comfort and stabilityFeatures include Y-girthing, ergonomic stirrup bar, and flexibloc systemFluidly working with your horse’s muscles, the revolutionary CAIR Cushion System replaces traditional fillings in your saddle with air. The cushioning nature of air encourages your horse to soften, relax and engage. Seated closer to your horse, you become simply an extension of one another.Features the EASY-CHANGEGullet system for a custom fit. Saddle comes with medium width gullet – other gullets sold separately.Ask about our TEST RIDE PROGRAM |
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Wintec Full Quarter Horse Fenders $77.25 Wintec full Quarter Horse fenders. Sold per pair. Complete with blevin buckles & tie straps. |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Wintec Isabell Flocked Dressage Saddle $1299 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! TheWintec Isabell Dressage Saddleis an updated model designed in conjunction with World Dressage Champion, Isabell Werth. Designed exactly as the Bates Isabell, but made with Wintec’s Easy-Care, Super-Grip Equisuede.The Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle features include:Traditional flocked panelsDeep seat with an ultra narrow and low waist to support a correct dressage positionRecessed stirrup channcel to eliminate interference with rider’s legEquisuede Seat is extremely comfortable with a surface softer than leather with the perfect level of gripAdjustable Flexibloc System enables the rider to individually tailor their own knee supportAdjustable Y-Girthing System secures the front and back of the saddle with equal pressure. Position of the Y-Girth Points can be adjusted to individually suit the horse’s shape.Ergonomic stirrup bars facilitate closer contactNew Generation Easy-Change Gullet System provides a custom fit for many different horses so you can change your gullet and not your saddleWeatherproof, durable, and easy care to save time and hassle! |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle with Flock $1299 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! Experience the world’s leading dressage saddle, the Bates Isabell, in a synthetic version with the added benefits of being lightweight, durable, easy-care and an amazing value for the money. World renowned Dressage Rider, Isabell Werth’s high performance saddle.My saddle is one of the proudest achievements of my dressage career. I believe we have created the perfect seat for the rider and unprecedented comfort for the horse. Isabell WerthFeatures: Supports a correct dressage position with an ultra narrow waist and deep seatA seamless transition from your seat through the length of your leg offers ultra close contactIdeal for use in all levels of competition and trainingPerformance materials ensure superior fit, comfort and stabilityIncludes an adjustable Y-Girthing and Flexibloc SystemThe Isabell saddle is also available in BatesFeatures the EASY-CHANGE Gullet system for a custom fit. Saddle comes with medium width gullet – other gullets sold separately.Ask about our TEST RIDE PROGRAM |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Wintec Pro Dressage Saddle with Flock $749 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! The new Wintec Pro Dressage achieves unprecedented comfort while supporting a correct and secure dressage position. Feature an ultra narrow waist enabling greater communication and contact between you and your horse.A cutting edge dressage saddle that includes top performance featuresIdeal for use in all levels of competition and trainingFacilitates a well balanced position and contact between horse and riderPerformance materials ensure superior fit, comfort and stabilityFeatures include adjustable Y girthing system and flexibloc systemFeatures the EASY-CHANGE Gullet system for a custom fit. Saddle comes with medium width gullet – other gullets sold separately.Ask about our TEST RIDE PROGRAM |
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Union Jack 3 Buckle Paded Dressage Girth $21.95 Three Buckle Padded Dressage Girth Padded fabric girth made with three buckles for dressage saddles with flap billet. Nylon web overlay and reinforced. Never-rust buckles. |
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(NEW 2012 MODEL) Wintec Pro Dressage with Countourbloc Saddle with Flock $839 Click either Logo To Learn More and Watch Videos! The new Wintec Pro Dressage with Contourbloc achieves unprecedented comfort while supporting a correct and secure dressage position. The saddle features an ultra narrow waist enabling greater communication and contact. The Contourbloc further enhances confidence and security.A cutting edge, dressage saddle that includes top performance featuresRevolutionary Contourbloc, offers exceptional support and stabilityIdeal for use in all levels of competition and trainingFacilitates a well balanced position and contact between horse and riderPerformance materials ensure superior fit, comfort and stabilityFeatures include adjustable Y girthing systemFeatures the EASY-CHANGE Gullet system for a custom fit. Saddle comes with medium width gullet – other gullets sold separately.Ask about our TEST RIDE PROGRAM |
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Kincade Dressage Girth $72 Economical Leather Girth With Roller Buckles, Suitable For Use On Long-Billet Saddles. |
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Veredus Piaffe Shield Dressage Horse Boot $204.2 Revolutionary overreach boot designed for protection of the whole heel area. Designed specifically for Dressage. The particular anatomic shape and protective material gurantees a perfect fit on the horse’s heel to give total protection.Anatomically designed protection in an elastic material that conforms perfectly to the horse’s foot, therefore eliminating rotation of the overreach boot itself.Extra carbon protection on heel area, which is at particular risk of injury and bruising.Double point fastening to ensure perfect fitting.Quick-release tips in non-deformable FLEXTAN on stainless-steel hooks. |
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Passier PSL-D Dressage $4719.95 PASSIER PSL Dressage Saddle PASSIER PSL Dressage Saddle: Classic dressage saddle featuring long stretch leather knee panels on flaps and stretch leather seat. This unique stretch leather expands and molds to the rider’s seat and knee providing extra comfort and a self-conforming fit not available in any other saddle. The flexible cutback PASSIER PS tree fits perfectly on the dressage horse. Long billets prepunched for conversion to short billets for long girth if required. Smooth grain German leather. Regular tree width. Fittings not included with Saddle. |
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Sorrano Dressage Saddle $1519.95 SORRANO Dressage Saddle Every SORRANO Saddle is designed and styled in the tradition of the world’s leading saddlemakers’ most popular models for Show Jumping, Eventing or Dressage riding. All SORRANO Saddles are made in Argentina from the finest European and South American curried and tanned saddle leathers selected for their beauty, srength and wearablility. The highest quality saddle materials and workmanship of a master saddlemaker give you a saddle of enduring quality and performance. SORRANO Dressage Saddle: World class dressage saddle developed by professional world champion and medalist dressage riders. Deep and correctly positioned super soft seat, large padded knee rolls on large and deep flaps provide the rider with all of the aids to ride correctly. Nylon web V billet system removes bulk under rider’s leg for closer contact. Long chrome leather billets for short dressage girth. Gusseted wool flocked saddle panel. French curried and finished Black smooth grain leather. Fittings Not Included with Saddle. |
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Union Jack Two Buckle Padded Fabric Dressage Girth $23.95 Padded Dressage Girth. Padded fabric girth made for two long billet dressage saddles. Nylon web overlay and reinforced. Never-rust buckles. |
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101 Dressage Exercises Book $30 Dressage Exercises for Horse & Rider features a full arena diagram and step-by- step instructions for each exercise. The exercises address all levels of riders, starting with the basics and moving up the levels. Training tips and masterly guidance make this an indispensable reference for all dressage riders. Even Western riders interested in enhancing their performance will find these foundational exercises useful. |
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Wintec Elastic Dressage Girth $41.25 Two inches of elastic in the center of the this high performance dressage girth allow it to stretch with the horse as you work. Pressure is evenly transferred over the whole surface of the girth with no pressure points or ridges. Elimination of pressure points combined with soft anti galling material makes the Wintec Elastic Dressage Girth one of the most comfortable girths on the market. Girth has stainless steel roller buckles. |
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TuffRider Dressage Show Coat Ladies $86 Your ladies Dressage show coat will keep you looking polished in the arena with 4 silver, antique horse head front buttons and a rear, two-button vent. Dry clean. 94% Polyester, 6% Lycra. |
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KINCADE Dressage Saddle $448.95 From the original Kincade Leather Saddles. Classically styled. With rich, full grain leather, sewn-in knee rolls and self-padded AirFlo flaps. Narrow twist and seat usually found on saddles costing 3x as much. Deep seat and flocked panels. |
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Bates Wide Dressage Cair Saddle $1845 The Bates Wide Dressage Saddle is acutting edge dressage saddle specially designed for the wider horse that supports an optimal dressage position for the rider with unparalleled comfort. It achives unprecedented comfort for the rider, supporting and optimal dressage position.Features include uniquely positioned stirrup bar, utilisation of the EASY-CHANGE Gullet System WIDE, adjustable Y-Girthing and Flexibloc Systems.CAIR Cushion system distributes weight across the panel, virtually eliminating pressure points for better performance and freer movement of horseNew Generation Easy-Change Gullet System Wide helps customize saddle fit to your horse’s wither |
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COLLEGIATE Convertible Intellect Dressage Saddle $1097.95 Great quality craftsmanship made from a great company. This dressage saddle will make you and your horse feel at home in both style and comfort. Elegantly designed saddle suitable for all levels of dressage. Features a deep seat, large flaps, large knee rolls, plus the Easy-Change Gullet System (sold separatly) to provide the best fit for your horse. |
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Equi-Bette PTD Dressage Saddle $715.95 EQUI-BETTE Model PTD Dressage Saddle EQUI-BETTE Model PTD Dressage Saddle: A classic saddle. The EQUI-BETTE PTD dressage saddle style has been a favorite of world renowned professionals and competitors for generations. The EQUI-BETTE PTD dressage saddle features a cutback head to fit every type of horse. The deep EQUI-BETTE PTD tree fits both horse and rider to perfection, keeping the rider deep in the seat for correct balance and perfect control. Long extended flaps are molded over modest knee rolls on the French panels. Made of premium quality German bridle leather in a dark Brown color with a hand waxed finish. |
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Ovation Dressage Crank Caveson – Black – Horse $72 Made in Italian hand finished leather. Color: BlackSize: Horse |
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Kensington Solid Nylon Dressage Saddle Cover with Plaid Bag $9.95 Classi Kensington nylon saddle cover. Made of nylon. Fits dressage saddles. All saddle covers have a plaid pocket carry case with a solid color nylon cover inside. |
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Jeremy & Lord 3 Buckle Dressage Girth with Elastic $59.95 Jeremy & Lord Jeremy & Lord is a registered trademark of Libertyville Saddle Shop, Inc. Jeremy & Lord Elastic End Dressage Girths. Heavy padded grained leather body over wool felt center and contour overlay leather back. Three buckle elastic end, fitted with leather loop keepers for saddle billets. Three buckle model for dressage saddles with flap strap. Three Buckle Elastic End Girth. |
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Jeremy & Lord 2 Buckle Dressage Girth with Elastic $51.95 Jeremy & Lord Jeremy & Lord is a registered trademark of Libertyville Saddle Shop, Inc. Jeremy & Lord Elastic End Dressage Girths. Heavy padded grained leather body over wool felt center and contour overlay leather back. Choice of two or three buckle elastic end, each fitted with leather loop keepers for saddle billets. Three buckle model for dressage saddles with flap strap. Two Buckle Elastic End Girth. |
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Wintec Pro Chafeless Elastic Girth $65.3 Equisuede chafeless girth with elastic stretch designed to help prevent galling and provide your horse with maximum comfort. Looks and performs stunningly when used to complement the Wintec Pro and Isabell Dressage Saddles. |
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HDR Pro Quarter Horse English Saddle (Foam) $850 From years of special orders and further understanding the American Quarter Horse confirmation, HDR has designed a show ring classic. Freedom through the gullet makes this a popular fitting choice. The foam panels in this hunt seat saddle provide riders the desired close contact |
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Let’s Learn About Horses Activity Placemat $6.99 Use washable markers with placemats, and children can play, write, create, draw and wipe clean and start over…. |
To work out what size Western Bar and Gullet your horse needs, you first need to know a bit about Saddle Tree construction and the general conformation of your horse.
When we discuss Full Quarter Horse Bars, Semi-Quarter Horse Bars and Quarter Horse Bars we’re talking about a parts of the saddle tree, it’s construction and how it all relates to your horse in terms of proper fit. You don’t have to be an expert on all the ins and outs of saddle tree construction to get a saddle that fits both horse and rider. Still, it’s to your advantage to have a basic understanding as to how saddles are constructed.
When someone talks about bars, gullets and flare, it’s helpful to be able to understand what is being talked about. The whole purpose of saddle tree design is to address fit to the horse, fit to the rider, and intended purpose.
Here are some of the basics of saddle tree construction and the relationship to saddle fit.
Western Saddle Tree Parts
1. Think of the saddle as having two sides, top and bottom. The top part is designed to fit the rider, the bottom to fit the horse.
2. The foundation of the saddle is called the tree.
3. You can think of the tree as having four main parts, the fork, bars, seat and cantle.
You will also find the fork referred to as the swell or pommel. No matter the term, it’s the front part of the saddle and the cantle is at the rear.
4. The bars attach to the fork in the front and the cantle in the back.
The bars are runners whose purpose is to distribute the weight of the rider evenly over the back of the horse. To accomplish this, the bars are angled to come into contact with the horse over as much of the bar area as possible.
The conformation of horses is such that the angle of the bars when joined at the fork or front of the saddle is different than the angle at the cantle or back of the saddle. This is called the flare.
The really critical measurement however is up front where the bars join the fork in the area called the gullet. The gullet is an opening which makes room for the horse’s wither.
There are two parts of the horse that you do not want to have pressure placed on, the wither and the spine.
The width and height of the gullet must be such that no pressure will be placed on the wither.
The bars, as they run along the back of the horse are separated at the top by a channel. The channel serves to prevent pressure from being directly applied to the horse’s backbone. The height and width of the gullet are measured in inches.
Bar Angle and Gullet Widths.
Quarter Horse Bars -designed to fit narrower western horses which were common place up through the 1960′s. These bars have a narrow angle. Gullet width of 5 3/4″- 6″.
Semi-Quarter Horse Bars-horses got bigger and wider from the 1970′s on, requiring a wider angle in the bars. Semi-quarter horse bars fit most of today’s western horses. Gullet width of 6″-6 1/2″.
Full Quarter Horse Bars- have even wider angles to accommodate wider-bodied horses and horses with flatter or “Mutton” withers. Gullet width of 6 3/4″- 7″.
The gullet width should be about the same width of the withers, approximately 2″ below the top of the withers. Just remember, the main thing you need to know is, is your horse narrow, wide or in-between!
Hopefully this has helped clarify saddle fit and gullet size for Western Saddles.
Annie Lloyd owns and operates Elite Saddle Company. in Queensland, Australia. Quality horse riding equipment at affordable prices, delivered to your door. http://www.elitesaddlecompany.com
(c) Copyright – Annie Lloyd. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
transforming a hunter into a dressage horse? help!?
well, i have a 24 year old quarter horse mare who is formerly a hunter. we’ve stopped jumping due to her age, so now were starting dressage. she responds well, and is coming along great except for one problem. she carries her head super low, and it looks and feels very awkward, especially while riding in the dressage saddle and circling. i know in low level dressage, it’s not very important, but i feel like i’m riding a camel sometimes. that’s how awkward her movements are.
and while circling or coming down centre line she will pull her head down and have it go to one side or the other, making it impossible to get a straight line.
any tips on how to get my hunter pony to pick up her head ? or is that something i cannot change ?
thanks (:
Kudos for taking the time to retrain your mare. It sounds like she has a pretty firm “head set” which is what is typically required of hunters. Unfortunately, it is the opposite of what you want in dressage. In dressage the horse needs to flex at their poll in order to lift their back and engage their hind end. This is called being “on the bit” versus “in a fake frame” which hunters usually go in.
The first thing you need to do is build up her neck muscling so she is able to lift her head and begin to flex through her topline. I would recommend lots of hill work, circles, flexion on the ground and undersaddle, as well as lounging (NOT in side reins – this will only encourage her to “set” her head improperly). Once her muscling begins to build you will start to notice a difference but you’ll have to be patient – when done correctly, this change doesn’t occur overnight! Use your seat to really “drive her from behind” meaning you want her to push herself forward from her hindend, not drag herself forward from her frontend. Keep schooling her in lower level dressage and bring her to a few shows. At the training level, the judge is more concerned about consistency in the gaits, overall rhythm, and accuracy of the movements. Collection and being on the bit does not come in to play until first level and beyond.
Good luck!!