Antares Signature vs. Spooner model: Differences??

[Lusoluv]

For those of you who have ridden in these saddles, are there significant differences between these 2 Antares models? I’ve ridden in my friend’s Signature, which is very nice and balanced. I believe the Spooner is a stock, non-customizable version, that is slightly less expensive. I’m very average in build so won’t need customization. I’m a low level jumper, so don’t need anything super-duper saddle-wise, so if I can save several hundred dollars via the Spooner, that’s great.

Would love feedback from those in the know

[Lusoluv]

No one??

[BAC]

I would suggest emailing Antares directly. Years ago when their first non-customizable saddle came out (not the Spooner, I forget what it was called), I did that and one of the owners sent me an immediate response with details about the new saddle.

[GoodTimes]

I don’t know the differences between the two. I found a used Spooner that fit me and my horse before I got a chance to try a Signature.
The Spooner I have has a forward flap and fits my regular-long femur quite well. My whole life I’ve had a habit of tipping forward, the Spooner at least keeps my lower leg in a better spot than my Childeric did. I still tip forward, but I find it quite easier to sink and sit back up in this saddle.
The medium-wide tree fits my 16.3 warmblood, with lots of room for his shoulders.

[Lusoluv]

Yes, the Antares seems to have a better balance (stirrup bar not too far forward) compared to most jump saddles. The Signature and Spooner look almost identical. I “think” the Spooner is made of slightly less expensive leather - tho it is NOT cheap. Just curious of those who had ridden in both if the Signature is worth ~$500 more. If not, I’ll try the Spooner first

[dynamite0319]

I tried a Spooner a couple years ago and would have bought one, but could NOT find one my size. My Antares rep told me the Spooner just has the less expensive leather, but is otherwise the same as the signature. I recall also talking to a SmartPak rep and they were pretty knowledgeable about the difference since they sold both models at the time.

[Lusoluv]

Thanks dynamite!

[mypaintwattie]

I have the Antares Hampton Classic, which is the same as the Spooner. It is well balanced, the leather is soft and supple, and it fits my horse very well. My wallet is glad I went with it over a full custom one.

[DocRider]

I have a Spooner for anyone who is interested! 17", #2 flap, medium tree. I love it. It fit my first horse but not the next 4, including my current guy. PM me if you are interested! Please!!

DocRider