Bates
Isabelle Dressage
Dressage Saddles
Manufacturer: Bates
Model: Isabelle Dressage
Category: Dressage Saddles
Purchase: Purchased on eBay brand new for $1800.00. Included Stirrup leathers, cover, alternate knee blocks, shipping. It was a great bargain as the norm is $2600.00.
Likes: I like the comfort of the deep seat. Air pockets are great and the adjust-ability of the gullet system is quite interesting. I found it fit the appendix gelding I am riding but will fit many body styles. Very good quality overall and especially for the money. This sits perfectly on the horse, sweat under the pad is quite evenly placed, air pockets are supple feeling, not too hard. This horse has a tendency to run down hill and my position is well maintained regardless.
Dislikes: After not riding for 20 years, coming back in is a bit different. Deep, deep seats were just coming around at that point, softer saddles with close contact and a better ability to connect and move were "normal" I would recommend that if you feel your standard seat size is 17" get at least a half size larger to allow movement, ability to position yourself. My preference would be to have thinner or more supple leg flaps so I could better feel the horse. Less padding between myself and his back, I feel quite "up" in the air. Can't imagine using the larger knee blocks!
Quality: Quality is great, very good leather product, stitching is top quality. Overall very pleased with the construction of this product.
Summary: I feel from what I've seen with very new eyes coming back into this sport where so much has changed, the Bates product line is very consistent with quality. I will look further at their products for another in the future.
Rating: 5
Author: BGemstar
Date: 2007-10-27
Usefulness Rating: 5 out of 5.
6 reader(s) voted.
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