I just can't help getting into saddle discussions. I use a McClellan (an
original, not one of the newfangled ones). This saddle cost me $100 about
9 years ago and I bought a fleece barrel pad from Teddy at the same time.
I still use this pad, although it is starting to wear out. I'm hoping to
get a nice new felt one from Teddy but I'm holding out for Christmas. So
far, though, I don't think Dad has gotten all my hints ('Gee, Dad, doesn't
this old pad look a little worn? Sure could use a new one.' I even left
her catalogue in his car "accidentally").
Anyway, I have had many, many vets comment that Star's back is the best
they've seen at the end of a ride. Granted, I am a featherweight, but the
same held true when my heavyweight, nonhorse husband rode his first
competition rides on Star this summer (he loves me enough for 30 miles, but
not enough to do 50...maybe next year) so I am convinced that I lucked out
with this horse and saddle combo. His back never seems to change
shape...his belly gets a little bigger in the winter but the saddle still
fits. I use another McClellan and 9 year old fleece pad (yes, I have two)
on my emergency backup horse, Quark the Arab. She did her first season
this year without a sign of back trouble, which is good, because otherwise
I'd have to ride her bareback!
I guess my point is that newer and more expensive isn't always better. Try
out used saddles or your friends saddles, you might be surprised at what
you don't have to pay, especially if you are like me and can barely afford
essentials and entry fees (I call the barn the 'Money Pit'). I wouldn't
sell my saddles for their weight in gold and am always on the lookout for
cheap McClellans in decent shape.
Shannon Loomis and Quail Meadow Star