Bates
Caprilli Close Contact with CAIR
Close Contact Saddles
Manufacturer: Bates
Model: Caprilli Close Contact with CAIR
Category: Close Contact Saddles
Purchase: I got a new horse and went from a WIDE Irish Sporthorse to a slender and elegant (and thin) TB. CLEARLY a new saddle was in order and I decided to get one that would have a shot at fitting whatever horses were in my future. I had good experience with a WINTEC All Purpose so the move to Bates and 'adjustability' made sense. I searched on line and found one for $1495 about 18 months ago (May '05).
Likes: There is much to like. Leather is nice, color is good, adjustable blocks and rolls let you customize the fit. I've had in everything from a narrow to medium wide gullet in the saddle.
Dislikes: The gullet change can be a little finicky... it helps to have a helper or patience to get the screw lined up exactly right.
If it gets wet, it can bleed a little, but riding in South Florida, that is more the norm than the exception.
Quality: The quality is good and the construction solid so far. I have a custom County Symmetry for the ISH (that is now retired) and it's not quite up to that level but it is half the price!
Summary: I would buy this saddle again..... or consider the Bates All Purpose with CAIR. The close contact requires more attention to exact fit but I do think my horse likes the CAIR air panels and the saddle is comfortable and broke in well.
Rating: 4
Author: Laurie
Date: 2007-01-03
Usefulness Rating: 5 out of 5.
2 reader(s) voted.
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