Equipe
Expression
Jumping Saddles
Manufacturer: Equipe
Model: Expression
Category: Jumping Saddles
Purchase: I purchased this from a retailer on eBay for about $1200. It was a demo and was completely brand new save a few scuffs on the bottom. MSRP, at Dover, was $2300.
Likes: It's a really lovely saddle, from the same maker as Amerigo and Vega but without all the frilly marketing. It is extremely similar in shape and style to my friend's Amerigo, but it is a LOVELY color-- a deep rich mahogany. The leather is beautiful and supple, the stitching is fantastic, and the seat is very comfortable. Much different from my Schleese CC!
Dislikes: The one main drawback of this saddle is the fact that the flap is awfully short from stirrup bar down. It is plenty forward enough but still comfortable on the flat, but the flap seems to end at an awkward point that catches the top of your boot/half chap when entering/exiting two-point over a fence or when really putting your leg back to use your spur. It causes the flap to get caught and push upwards. This is not just with me (5'3) but also with my 6' trainer. He loves it otherwise but would not recommend using it for upper level fences.
Quality: Immaculate. Very, very durable, top notch leather, great stitching, etc etc etc. It is a top of the line saddle.
Summary: Fabulous saddle-- you get a gorgeous Italian leather saddle, nearly identical to an Amerigo, for a couple thousand less as the name brand is not well known in the US. Mention the name to someone in the UK or Italy and they go nuts! Great for flat as well as over fences, but probably best for either a short rider or someone not coursing 4'+ daily.
Rating: 5
Author: Shannon
Date: 2011-07-09
Usefulness Rating: 2.92814 out of 5.
334 reader(s) voted.
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