Which saddle is better for me?

Question

I am looking for a saddle that I can use on trail rides, for shows, jumping, and flat work. Which of these saddles would be the best? What do you like/dislike most about these saddles? I have long legs, so I need a saddle that has knee rolls that will be in the right place for dressage and jumping.

http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp_Q_pn_E_X1-TR145&ss=collegiate

http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp_Q_pn_E_X1-15623

Thanks!

Answer 1

How much jumping will you be doing? If it's 2'6 and under, then an all purpose is fine, but if you plan on going any higher or jumping often then you really should get a close contact saddle. All purpose saddles will not put you in the correct position for jumping and can even create bad habits, but if you're popping over the occasional low fence, then they're fine.

Look at some used Wintec saddles, and maybe even a used Bates. They're not so great for serious jumping(I found even with the bates c/c I didn't have enough freedom to get off the horses back) but man, they are cooommfy.  

Answer 2

Go with second one (the brown one) for sure

Answer 3

Well, their both great saddles, especially if you are doing multiple events. Fo trail riding, I always use my english all purpose saddle.. I wouldn't pay much attention in regards to the trail riding if your buying an english saddle- unless you mean trail riding as in doing 4H with your horse or something, then Im not sure about that, but i think you need a western saddle.

If it were me, I would probably buy the first one, but they both look like excellent saddles for all purpose use! Good choices=]

Answer 4

I use a Wintec 500, and I love it to death!!  I only paid 400 for mine.  It has an easy change gullet system.  The price is nice too.  It's not leather but a synthetic material that is cleaned with mild soap and water.  No oil.  I use mine for trails, jumping, cross country and flat work. It will work well for dressage too.  If you want an actual dressage saddle it comes in that style too.  

This page is for the wintec 500.  But check out the other wintec english styles too.

http://www.horse.com/Wintec-Saddles/Engl...

http://www.horse.com/Wintec-Saddles/Engl...

Answer 5

Not the Collegiate Finalist Saddle. Its a jumping saddle and you could not use it for dressage or hacking. I have the Collegiate Dignitary All-Purpose Saddle and I use it for everything, dressage, jumping, showing, bush riding... and I have long legs. Plus, its extremely comfortable!!

Answer 6

i like the second one best but it doesnt have an easy gullet change system so when your horses back changes during training and age you will either have to buy a new saddle or he will be in pain and not preform well for you