Barefoot
Cheyenne Drytex
All Purpose Saddles
Manufacturer: Barefoot
Model: Cheyenne Drytex
Category: All Purpose Saddles
Purchase: Our family was given an older pony for my kids to ride and to be a companion for my horse, but he has a severe sway back. I tried many different padding solutions with both western and English saddles, but even without a rider, it was clear that the pony was uncomfortable and/or in pain.
We contacted Equinox Health about a saddle fitting, which cost $75. It was clear very quickly that this was the saddle solution we were looking for. While the pony tensed up as soon as he saw a saddle, he very quickly relaxed, dropped his head and started licking his lips. While all the models we tried were comfortable for the pony, the kids all agreed that the Cheyenne suited them best. We paid just over $1000 for the saddle, the physio pad, leathers and a bitless bridle.
Likes: The saddle is lightweight and comfortable for both horse & rider. I was cautious about the treeless saddles, since I'd been told that they are "glorified bareback pads". This saddle protects the spine and seems to distribute rider's weight well. When the saddle is removed, the spine area is dry and the contact patches under the rest of the saddle are even.
Most importantly, the pony likes this saddle. Yesterday when my son was trying to remove the saddle after their ride, the pony kept moving back under the saddle. We only had time for a short ride, but the pony wanted to keep going. Also, while the pony will always have a sway back, regular exercise with this saddle is improving the muscles development of his back.
If the girth is properly tightened, there are no issues with the saddle slipping and the physio pad is securely attached to the saddle so it stays in place.
Dislikes: After several months of regular use, we still don't have any dislikes.
Quality: Well made and looks good.
Summary: I'm so impressed with how this saddle is performing for the pony with a problem back, I'm considering selling my treed AP saddle and getting a Barefoot for my horse.
Rating: 5
Author: Alberta rider
Date: 2011-10-17
Usefulness Rating: 3 out of 5.
177 reader(s) voted.
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