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  Discussion on Do People prefer larger Dressage Saddles to AP Saddles?
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Posted on Monday, Jan 29, 2001 - 11:22 am:

OK, I'm feeling very remedial. I posted this Q on the warmblood BB and got a resounding silence. I know all about trying hundreds :-) of saddles (on me and the horse), but I was just wondering if people typically ride in a larger dressage saddle than AP or close contact. Reason I'm asking is that I usually ride in a 17.5 dressage saddle, but I do have long thighs and need to be very careful about my fit (in fact, I have a lovely Albion that I have to sell because it doesn't fit me - sigh - even though my hores just loves it). Anyway, sorry for the digression. I'm looking at a 17" dressage saddle made by the same folks as my 17" AP saddle. I just love my AP, and I haven't seen too many of these saddles around. Do you think it might fit? Don't want to risk having to ship back if it's unlikely that it will fit. Thanks.

Posted on Monday, Jan 29, 2001 - 12:08 pm:

Hi Lisa - from what I understand, typically the dressage size is larger than a cc size. Likewise, a deeper seated cc would most likely be a bit larger than a shallow seated one, by about 1/2 size. I need a 16" in a very shallow seat, but a 16 1/2" in a slightly deeper seat. So I've been told that I would probably start looking at a 17" for a dressage saddle. But then again, as you know, it probably does depend on the make. You might be safe looking at a 17" dressage if you are in a 17" AP, as the AP is a pretty deep seat already (compared to a cc).

Posted on Monday, Jan 29, 2001 - 2:14 pm:

I agree with what Jordana has written.

When in doubt, I like a larger saddle, too. I like to be able to position myself correctly than have a saddle put me in position. Plus, there is nothing more uncomfortable than doing a sitting trot in a too small dressage saddle.

Best thing is to sit in the exact size and model of saddle before buying it.

Posted on Monday, Jan 29, 2001 - 2:24 pm:

Lisa, I also think it depends on the depth of the seat. It's hard (impossible?) to find a dressage saddle with a flat seat these days. I take a 17.5 in an AP, but 18.5 in a deep seated dressage saddle--anything smaller & I feel like I'm wearing a bustle or a full-butt cast. According to my thigh measurement, I "should" take a 17.5, but....I ended up getting the large seat and having them make the flap shorter. No problems with the stirrup placement.

If you're ordering a saddle from one of the expensive companies (where the saddler can make some individual changes) send a tracing of the top of your comfortable saddle and have them match it; also mark on the tracing where you want the stirrups hung. Most saddlers use the same trees anyhow, and build the seats up with foam & inserts. I think that Albion should be able to do this. I have a Reactor Panel. What saddle interests you?

Posted on Monday, Jan 29, 2001 - 5:34 pm:

This is an older used saddle made in England. I'm looking for an interim (non-gusseted) saddle for my 3 yr old and this one looks like it fits the bill. I've never seen new ones or even used ones in my area, though, so I can't check it out. It's older and has a relatively flat seat. I'm using a Wintec Isabel right now and I think I really prefer a shallower seat than that. But, if I was made of money, I'd get an Albion SL in a heartbeat. I fell in love! That is not in the cards at this time, though. Especially with one growing (equine)youngster and another in the cooker :-).

Posted on Thursday, Feb 1, 2001 - 3:58 pm:

What make is the used English saddle?

Imogen

Posted on Friday, Feb 2, 2001 - 3:27 pm:

It's sold now...Thoroughbred made in Walsall, England.
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