----- Original Message -----
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:11
PM
Subject: Fw: Aussie saddles
Hi, Beth -- I am resending this to you because I haven't seen it show up
on Ridecamp.
Joan Dowis
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2001 9:56 PM
Subject: Re: Aussie saddles
Hi, Beth,
Australian saddles are available in many brands, some better than
others.
So far as I know, Somerset is a reputable name. That said, the fit
will vary from model to model, and you really have to try different saddles to
get a good fit. I was a partner in Australian Connection from its
beginning to fairly recently. We started with Syd Hill saddles, and
stuck with them - we think they are the best. There are different trees,
all of which have unique aspects of fit. My personal saddle, a Syd Hill
Sierra, has fit my 17h Saddlebred and three Arabs. I have a Warwick,
which is a cut-back style, which fits differently. My husband's Sierra
had to be restuffed to fit his 14.3 thin Arab. I have had my saddle for
about 10 years, it was the prototype Sierra. The Aussie Connection has
the saddles it imports made with double billets, to accommodate English
dressage length girths. No problem with bulk under your legs. No
problem with strange girthing systems. Wide variety of stirrup leathers
will fit. BTW, the Sierra is an excellent saddle for endurance - its
poleys are more upright than the norm, and don't cut into your thighs after
miles of posting. I have ridden Tevis several times in it.
If you are still interested in trying Aussie saddles, check both the web
site and catalog of Australian Connection, there are many different models
from the heavier stock saddles to the lighter weight endurance designed
saddles. Obviously you have a mismatch, but there is a saddle out there
to fit both you and your horse.
Good luck.
Joan Dowis
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2001 12:53
PM
Subject: RC: Aussie saddles
OK, the "jury is in" regarding Aussie saddle,
Australian Stock Saddle Co, Sommerset Poley, and our little Arab
gelding. He Is a small horse, 14.3 h 900# soak 'n wet. The
fenders have rubbed raw spots behind arm to shoulder region. Rear of
saddle does "scrub" loins. Too much pressure on small spots, even well
padded saddle and Very good pad. Toklat woolback. Also use Very good
Equalizer pad. Like these two pads well enough to order
more. But not the saddle. Well built and pretty but does not
seem to do well with lots of two-point trotting on rough trotting
horse. Maybe other Aussie saddles will work but I am no longer
interested. Will stick to "tried and True".
First probs with saddle, big deal...stirrup
leathers are very whimpy...stitched on. Not made for any real riding at
all. Girth is Very uncomfortable. Saddle is heavy, 30# +.
But, is built for narrow, at least withers, and well padded for horse and
love the free-swinging stirrups?. And saddle seems to be comfortable
for rider. Was fine during walking and gentle trotting. Found
the real story with fast trotting and canters for 2 hrs in hot/humid
weather.
Ok, so what Aussie saddles work on what build
of horse and under what kind of training/competeing conditions?
Although, now I will need another saddle for this horse. Will get one
that will fit my mare, DeeDee, it will work for the other 3. Just use
different pads. As I look to sell this saddle, look for input for
happy Aussie saddle riders. This saddle should do well with better
built, narrow in withers, better loin area (Danny Is narrow and light
there---Augh!). Is beautiful and comfy for rider. Sheepskin
cover over girth has worked Very well. Trail Tech stirrups to replace
awful english style, and works very well.
Any input appreciated!!!
Beth
Gunn