Any of you have experience using dressage saddles on long distance trail rides? Any disadvantages?

Question

My horse is extremely hard to fit TWH (wide shoulders, med. back). Finally found dressage saddle that fits well - any reason it wouldn't work for long distance (almost endurance) type riding? Been through MANY expensive saddles w/o success (rubbing, pinching, etc..) Does anyone out there ride trail w/ dressage saddle? I mean hard riding as well - not just light! Any disadvantages to the horse?? Any input would be appreciated. He's a great horse and deserves to be comfortable! Due to weather, I've not ridden more than 2.5 hrs in this saddle and so far, so good. It's an Otto Schumacher profi exklusiv (if that makes a difference), very well made and very comfortable. I've tried Tuckers, GOOD aussies, treeless, you name it - I do not ride western so must have english type gear. Oh, tried , many pad types too. Am hoping that the Schumacher will work. Bottom line - any potential problems heavy riding in dressage saddle that you've experienced? Thanks for help - happy trails :)

Answer 1

I have done long hard rides in my close contact and I love it!!! A dressage saddle actually has a deeper seat then my close contact so if you are comfortable in it then you should be fine. People used to think I was crazy cause I would ride my spookey, hot Arab out on the trail # 1 and in an English saddle. So basically if it fits your horse and you're comfortable in it it's no different then any other saddle.  Goodluck!!