More saddle help.?

Question

I am seriously considering to buy the Dignitary All Purpose English Collegiate Saddle and i wanted to know what people think of it. On one site it said "great for more weight bearing..." Does that mean it's for "heavier" people? I am only 120 lbs and 5' 9"? Please help by telling me what you think of this saddle and if it's worth my money and my mom's. Thanks!

Answer 1

I was considering a Collegiate not too long ago.  I read that they seem to put people in chair seat positions, although I do not know (and can't find) any information on more recently made Collegiates.  I don't know what that statement was really referring to.  I have also read that they are VERY comfortable saddles to ride in (and I have to admit, I sat in a Collegiate Alumni and I thought it was pretty comfy).

Personally, I do not like argentinian leather (Collegiates are made from argentinian leather).  I have ridden in a number of saddles made from it and had many saddle pads (especially lighter coloured ones) permanently dyed pinky-orange.  You should settle on a saddle that you can:

a) afford

b) fits your horse

c) you find comfortable and puts you in a good position

I would rather spend my money on a more expensive saddle that I like and will last (argentinian leather needs a bit more upkeep and it takes longer to break in) whether it be a used saddle or not (currently still looking at the Exselle saddles - more specifically the Exselle Debut Hunter/Jumper - they have a nice price range for french leather!!)

Answer 2

Not sure about the price tag, but if I were you I 'd seriously look at gently used european saddles.

First of all they hold their value.

Secondly although Argentine leather's a step up from Indian, it's still not the quality of European.  You can buy all purpose Stubbens, Crosbys, Crumps, etc.

Answer 3

I have a Henri de Rivel  close contact saddle from Schneiders. Close contact is for QHs, but they had an all around. I'm very pleased with my saddle and the employee was really helpful

Answer 4

Well I have a Collegiate bridle in havana and LOVE the leather. Holds up beautifully. So if that helps at all the leather is great quality and holds up very well.