Beval
Butet
Close Contact Saddles
Manufacturer: Beval
Model: Butet
Category: Close Contact Saddles
Purchase: I purchased my Butet just over 2 years ago from Beval. Before making the purchase, I tried more saddles than I care to remember (including saddles by Bruno Delgrange, Beval, Dover and HDR). I finally chose the Butet. I liked the PJ, but did not like the fit for my leg. The quality of the Butet was much better when comparing the new saddles and their construction and attention to detail. I had to wait longer to get my Butet since the price was higher than what I planned on paying, but after having the saddle for a couple of years, the investment was well worth the wait. I can't remember the exact price, but I think the saddle was around $3500 when I purchased it.
Likes: I love everything about the Butet. I have a 17" deep seat w/ a regular length flap, but slightly forward since I needed it more forward for show jumping and cross country. I love the balance and the close contact feel it provides. I have never been so comfortable in a saddle, whether I'm going out for a short hack or long conditioning ride, the saddle has been extremely comfortable from the very first ride. The leather quality is amazing... I know I've heard some people have trouble w/ quick wear on the soft calfskin, but I ride in breeches (usually full seat) every day (at least 6 rides every week) and my saddle is in great condition - I clean it at least 3 times a week, and only oil and condition it when it gets dry. I don't have any complaints about the quality or construction... I absolutely love the saddle!
Dislikes: The only thing I don't like is the price, but I have a limited budget. A saddle to me was a huge investment since I plan to have it for years to come and it's one of the most important pieces of equipment I have to use every time I ride. Although it's hard to part w/ that much money, I would not hesitate to buy it again if I had to do it over. My biggest concern is that since I Event, I have to use this saddle for all 3 phases right now and my forward flap is not ideal for doing dressage. Based on my experience w/ the Butet close contact, I am now trying to save my money to purchase a Butet Dressage saddle in a few years and just deal with this one for dressage until I can afford a dressage saddle.
Quality: Quality and construction is the best. My Butet is used regularly and still looks great. The soft leather on the seat and knee pads provided a broken-in feel the first time I rode in it. I'm sure it will break down quicker over time compared to some thicker leather seats, but then again, those saddles would have taken much longer to break in. You pay for what you get and the Butet is WELL worth the investment in my opinion.
Summary: I would recommend this saddle to anyone. I have been extremely happy w/ the quality, construction, comfort and fit for both me and my horses. I compared a lot of saddles to this because I wanted to get the saddle that would be best in the long run and I have no regrets with the Butet!
Rating: 5
Author: Tara
Date: 2007-02-07
Usefulness Rating: 5 out of 5.
7 reader(s) voted.
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