Are treeless still popular in endurance?

I rode a horse in the 1990’s that belonged to an endurance rider and i got to sit in her Bob Marshall Sport Saddle, and it was so comfy. I know there are differing opinions on what is best for the horse’s back. Back in the 90’s, it seemed a very popular type of saddle (treeless) for endurance people. Just curious if it is still popular and if any health risks were ever proven by using them. (not just BM brand but all treeless.)

Yes, there are still plenty of us using them very successfully. I actually just bought a Bob Marshall for my Arab as I’ve been having a heck of a time finding a saddle that fit him and worked for me long distance. They need to be fitted and padded properly like any other saddle.

2 Likes

Like most things related to horses, it all depends on the individual. I know people who have completed 1000s of miles in treeless successfully and I know others who it didn’t work for at all.

Personally, I have a Torsion treeless as my catch ride saddle, but our horses normally go in treed saddles.

1 Like

I guess i was just curious, bc some “studies” say that the treeless put too much pressure on one spot, but if endurance riders are still using them, and their horses do fine, then i guess they can’t be all that bad? i have a BMSS but i want to make sure i’m not doing any harm.

I check my horses’ back before and after every ride (I’m a little obsessive about lol), plus they get regular massage therapy and their backs get checked by the vet every time they compete. I would say don’t worry about the studies etc (fyi the study that everyone likes to preach about by Hilary Clayton did not use proper treeless pads and did not imitate the type of riding most people do in treeless so take it with a total grain of salt) as long as your horse and you are comfortable with it

4 Likes

With any saddle, keep an eye on your horse’s back. I know quite a few riders at Tevis this summer were in Bobs.

2 Likes