Bates Innova Dressage Saddle

[Beentheredonethat]

OK, in light of my recent thread I have been thinking about giant thigh blocks to help my aging butt stay in the saddle and whether it WOULD help. I am NOT paying $4 k to figure it out.

But, this saddle was on ebay yesterday. They seem to go used $1200 and up. I bid and got it for $600 US with shipping.

Does that seem stupid? It seems like a super good price and will give me a chance to try something, if not custom, to see if it makes any difference. And if it doesn’t fit, I could sell it to someone else who can get a great price on it.

[2horseowner]

Oh yes, you will definitely be locked in. I had one for the same reason, and it was great at first until I could not make subtle changes. I felt like I was riding in a jousting saddle. You got a great bargain. I sold mine for $1100. My horse did not like the Cair panels either. Everyone is different, and this may work perfectly for you. Good luck!

[caper]

Sadly mine the seat size was too small. So I sold it and went with a Stubben Genesis. Much better fit for me. But at the time my skinny 16 year old loved riding in it.

[Calhoun]

I rode in one for a week and like 2horseowner stated it does sorta lock you in place. I felt secure in the saddle and noticed my legs were steady unlike in my saddle w/o the exterior thigh blocks they have a tendency to swing a little at the canter. I do think Bates saddles are made for horses w/ a straight back, curvy horses would not like them.

[DressageChic2]

a good saddle for the used price and will definitely help lock you down!

and i agree for straight backs only too.