First of all, it depends on how old the horse is.? If the horse is less than 8 yrs old, any saddle you buy might not fit later, so you either buy a saddle that can be re-adjusted or go cheap.
Second, an LD is not as critical as longer distances wrt saddle fit, but you still want to get the best fit you can for the money you have to spend.? So how much are you willing to spend?
Every horse is different and my experience has been the semi-quarter horse trees are a better fit than arab trees, BUT it is better to get a saddle whose tree is specifically built for a gaited horse.? They flange the front of the tree for freer action.? Other saddles either pinch the whithers or sit too low on the whithers.
I currently use a Synergist, modelled to my Paso Fino gelding. We have over 800 competitive miles on it right now, and I am very happy with it. There are a lot of used ones for sale on endurance.net that can be re-fitted, depending on tree size.?
? If you don't want to spend that kind of money, check out the Crest Ridge Sonata.? It is not as comfortable for the rider, but it is fit to the horse and designed for gaited horses.
Let me know how you get on.? I have a mare that I am just starting that is extremely short backed.? I am worried that I may have to come up with a new saddle option for her.
Good luck,
-paul
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On Mar 1, 2006, at 1:10 PM, jen wrote:
Hi, all.? I have a question for any and all Paso people out there.? I traded my 16h?rescue Qh for a 14.1h little Paso Fino cross for my son to begin his LD career with and I can't seem to find a saddle that fits.? He is short backed obviously and fairly wide and low-withered.? He has two big white marks on his withers, so someone did not care at some time in the past.? I read somewhere that Arab saddles are a good fit, does anyone have any suggestions for me.? Also, has anyone attempted there first ride with a junior and his first ride, or am I crazy?? I'd better do a couple rides myself before I attempt all that.
Thanks, Jen, Banjo and new guy, Falcon(my son picked this name and I love it)? I can already here him saying "Let's fly, Falcon"
