Saddle trouble?

Question

I need extreme help buying my first saddle.

1.) I'm from CT and i was wondering if you can use synthetic leather saddles in tri-state shows.

2.) What does "close contact" saddle mean?

3.) I am considering a Collegiate Connoisseur Saddle but does anyone know if it has an adjustable gullet?

I ride/ show school horses so i need an adjustable gullet and i show hunter flat and i want to start jumping so i was wondering if anyone had a suggestion on which saddle i should buy. An answer to any would be GREATLY appreciated thanks in advance =]

Answer 1

buy them all

Answer 2

I dont know what those types are like, but i would suggest scheduling a saddle fitting so that the saddle will fir your horse just right and not make him back sore.

Answer 3

i'm not sure of rules in the usa but generally sythetics are acceptable. if your starting jumping a general purpose saddle will be good as you can use this for jumping and flat work.schooling. however, if you're hoping to compete in jumping then it may be best to get separate saddles specifically for your chosen phase. hope this helped, from england so rules may be slightly different.

Answer 4

Synthetic leather saddles are fine for more than local shows. As the quality and appearance of them has evolved they are becoming extremely popular.

A close contact saddle has minimal knee rolls and a relatively flat seat. In short, you get to feel the horse’s side with your leg more closely, but on the other hand, you must maintain a good leg position without help from the leather. If you're a beginner or have difficulty with balance or your base of support an all-purpose saddle, which has a deeper seat and "meatier" knee rolls will help you while you progress. If your seat and leg is secure than a close contact will give you a more independent approach with aids.

The collegiate connoisseur has a fixed gullet. The collegiate convertible is also a close contact with an almost identical style but offers the adjustable gullet. It's about $250 more though. The collegiates tend to be very durable. While they are not top of the line you get a lot for your money and they hold up very well.

If you are very secure on the flat - walk, trot, canter, transitions, etc are balanced and you can maintain your aids throughout you would probably be fine with a close contact while learning to jump. If your flat work still needs some polishing I'd lean towards an all purpose so you have a bit more security. Bates, Pessoa, and Ovation have some nice all purposes with adjustable gullets.

Answer 5

i don't think a Collegiate Connoisseur has a adjustable gullet