Beval Natural lovers: what other saddles do you love?

[Saskatoonian]

Need to replace my old Beval Natural because it no longer fits my guy. He’s a beefy TB with especially big shoulders, and a pretty short back. I just want something with the same balance as the Beval that will make him happy. He likes the Voltaire I borrowed from a friend, but UGH. I can’t get out of it to save my life. Butet is a no-go: the balance point is somehow over the pommel, and it doesn’t fit him anyway. All thoughts welcome. Body work person suggested I try a Tad, Devoucoux, maybe Antares, PJ. Some are right out: Stubben, Butet, Stackhouse. Also Wintec. hahahaha.

A little direction would be good.

[sheltona01]

Pm me and I can tell you more information on what saddles would be similar if not the same.

[ridebythebay]

Hey there!

I had a Beval Natural for many years and adored it until I eventually outgrew it. The saddle I bought after that was a used Equipe Grand Prix. They’re an Italian brand that most people haven’t heard of where I live, but I think its great. Its definitely “more saddle” than my Beval was, but the balance point and twist were similar to my Beval and that was really important for me. It might be difficult for you to get your hands on one to try but if you do have the chance you should definitely try one! Good luck saddle hunting

[imapepper]

I have ridden in a Beval Natural for years and just bought a Voltaire. I bought the Palm Beach and it’s definitely more saddle then I’m used to but I’m not having any issues feeling stuck in it. And I have had that issue with deeper seats but I do really like my new saddle. Of course I haven’t jumped anything more then some cross rails so… It’s hard to find something like the older Bevals

[Saskatoonian]

Thanks guys! A friend in my barn has an equipe, as does one down the road - forgot which models - so I’ll sit in them.

I tried the Palm Beach and felt so stuck. Of course the horse liked it. we might be able to meet in the middle on Antares.

Also tried a Tad Coffin A5 (pre-smart ride) and liked it a lot. Horse hated it. Wonder if the smart ride tree makes enough of a difference that he’d like it.

Good thing it’s the end of the season, but I’d really like to get our jumping back on track before we’re stuck inside for winter.

[fourfillies]

I’d try a TC A5 with the SR tree. My guy with similar build loves it. Riderwise it was very similar for me to my friend’s old Beval Natural which was always a good balance point for me. The TCs are not everyone’s cup of tea and coming out of an Antares took some reacclaimation for me. Both horse and I are happy.

[Saskatoonian]

Well, tried the TC2 smartride and loved it. Horse not so much. But hey, at least he told me (and not even by bucking me off) within the first 5 minutes.

[Saskatoonian]

updating in case anyone finds herself in the same boat: Antares seems to be the answer!