Wintec
Stock Saddle
Trail Saddles
Manufacturer: Wintec
Model: Stock Saddle
Category: Trail Saddles
Purchase: I got it about 15 years ago from State Line Tack as a "temporary" saddle for my husband, who had just begun riding (at 55!). My recollection is that it cost about $150 dollars.
Likes: This saddle has been through the wars! My husband used it for 2 or 3 years, until he got a Sharon Saare, and then I used it for all kinds of guest riders, and then I had it re-stuffed for a little old Icelandic mare and it's been in continuous use as a kid and beginner saddle on Icelandics. I've used it for teaching babies to wear a saddle (I push the saddle off their back and let it crash on the ground), and I've ridden in it myself when I was doing games. It really keeps you on the horse, making it a big favorite for nervous adults or people riding some of our more energetic Icelandics. It fits a short backed horse, even though it's a 17.5" seat. It has held up incredibly well, although parts of the flaps are worn smooth from rider's legs. It's really light and I love the ease with which it can be restuffed.
Dislikes: I, personally, don't like to stick to the seat that much. I kind of like sloshing around, especially on a long ride, and as I'm shifting gears on our five-gaited horses. And let's face it, this isn't a classy saddle. But gee, after 15 years, assuming I paid $150, it's cost me $10 a year to have a safe saddle that's comfortable for several of my horses - the last time it got used was yesterday!
Quality: This has the Wintec fabric seat, with tacky plastic piping. The seat is fairly deep. The Poleys are plastic, but very well-placed to be comfortable but secure, even if you do decide to make like the Man from Snowy River. Long billets backed with nylon. Construction good enough to last 15 years of heavy use.
Summary: I'd buy another one in a minute (in fact I did when I had a chance at a used one for $75). Great to keep around as a spare - no cleaning, never molds in the tack room - just blow off the dust and tell your nervous friend that they'll never fall off while they are riding in this saddle. For what it is, a knockabout trail saddle, it's a great one of it!
Rating: 5
Author: Blasted Rock Farm
Date: 2004-08-22
Usefulness Rating: 4.825 out of 5.
40 reader(s) voted.
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