Hermes
Steinkraus
Close Contact Saddles
Manufacturer: Hermes
Model: Steinkraus
Category: Close Contact Saddles
Purchase: Given to me by a friend. I still thank her every time I see her!
Likes: The saddle has a narrow twist (unlike many French brands in which I've ridden -Cwd, Antares, devoucoux) which I prefer. No knee rolls or blocks - a bit old school, I know. Very close contact feel. The saddle allows a very classic position with freedom to move about as needed. I always feel perfectly balanced.
And perhaps more importantly my horse LOVES it. Hermes saddles basically come in two trees: tb and warmblood; mine is the former. My horse was very hard to fit and before this saddle i always used a combo gel & sheepskin ECP pad.
I have also used it schooling almost all of the horses in my barn (37) and they go well under it - relaxed, forward and straight. I've used it on all but super wide QH/warmblood.
Dislikes: Zilch. After having ridden in one for over a year I would save my pennies and buy one second hand should I ever need to replace mine.
Quality: The saddle is over ten years old and shows no signs of wear except minimal spider cracking on panels. (it was stored in a closet unused and not conditioned for several years) The buffalo seat looks new. Even the billets look good.
Summary: Lovely, well made and classic saddle. Highly recommended for flatwork and jumping.
Rating: 5
Author: CWC
Date: 2012-04-22
Usefulness Rating: 3.42308 out of 5.
26 reader(s) voted.
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