You said "they weigh in at 27 lbs, so
are a a bit heavy for endurance". So, why put your horse through carrying a
heavy saddle when there are many other saddles available that
weigh less??? The horse has to carry the rider, the saddle and whatever
else the rider may need along the trail... Less
weight along the trail is always better for the horse and rider
given the conditions of the day. Buddy