Looking for a new dressage saddle for a harder-than-normal-to-fit horse. Have ridden in Stubbens for years, and have never strayed very far. But now I am more open to other possibilities and brands, than I maybe have been in the past.
Do any reps carry multiple brands?
What companies have the best adjustment and trade-in policies, if/when he changes shape?
Who do you call? And why?
No personal experience, but Barrington Saddlery has a saddle fitter with some cred:
http://www.barringtonsaddlery.com/about-us.html
As does Saddlers Row:
http://www.saddlersrow.com/about-us/
If you want to go with a Stubben, I am very happy with the semi-custom from Linda Clay at Great Lakes:
Michael at Barrington Saddlery!
I love Michael at Barrington. Also Christina Schrant of Devoucoux did a great job fitting my hard to fit Oldenburg. She us on a Facebook or pm for number.
You ABSOLUTELY have to use Paul Suhadolnik. He is a master saddler who works with all brands. He saddles my entire dressage barn. I’ve used him for over 10 years. He works independently, though he used to work for Barrington Saddlery back in the day. His prices are VERY reasonable. PM for phone number.
Kate Ballard is in the area. She was at Barrington, but is now opening her own Saddle shop called Stanbridge. They are open unofficially this week, and will be officially open soon.
I second Kate. Certified British Master Saddler. Can fit dressage or jumping saddles. She’s very in demand. Called to have her check my CWD 2Gs jumping saddle as I didn’t trust the CWD reps assessment…though there’s not much she can do with the French foam flocked jumping saddles.
She originally worked at Saddler’s Row in Palatine and helped fit me for my first saddle when I was 14 so I didn’t have to ride in “less than desirable” lesson saddles.
Very knowledgeable. Her apprentice is super nice, too.
For my dressage saddle, I am getting a County rep out to fit my horse as I know which two models I like from them. Though if it needed adjustment, I’d take it to Kate.
Pam Smith- County Saddlery
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