Just looking for all the feedback I can find on either the T8 Jump saddle or the T8 GP (general purpose) saddles by Thorowgood. They are the newer hybrid leather and synthetic saddle. No US retailer carries both of these in black, so trying to narrow down my costs in getting both of them to try.
Main question: is the GP forward enough to jump 2’6"? Or is their jump saddle more appropriate. Again, personal experiences greatly appreciated!
Saddle is for a 15.3hh straightbacked, muscular WBx.
Bumping a very old thread. Sorry!
@Lusoluv Did you ever decide between the T8 jump or GP? I’m also wondering if the flap of the GP comes forward enough for jumping. I’m not planning to jump over 3 feet (well probably 2’ ish if we’re being honest…) and I’m a short person with normal leg length wrt upper body.
I’m just wondering if my legs are short enough that I wouldn’t notice that it’s a GP? I’ve always ridden in a cc. I need a high wither compact version but that doesn’t seem to be available in the jump saddle.
I have a T8 Compact GP I got as a backup while the tree was being replaced in my usual saddle. It’s… fine. I’m 5’2" with a (relatively) long thigh and I was basically right against the knee roll. However, I think the Jump would have been too forward for my horse, and for up to 2’3", the T8 let me have a show season I would have otherwise lost.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/ca5pxQaLN84LT1Zi9
https://photos.app.goo.gl/zJ94xhjnk3h3XJvZ7
I have a T8 GP Cob for my hunky-chunky mare. We’ve jumped 2’3" with it without issue. It’s very much a “general purpose” saddle but that’s what I like about it. 95% of the work we do doesn’t fall into the serious jumping or dressage category anyway. I am 5’4" with a long thigh and the saddle is a 17.5". I’m comfortable in it, but I think it fits my mare a little better than it fits me!
Our saddle fitter raves about how well it fits my mare. She is a huge fan of the Thorowgood line in general, especially the wool flocking. I think they’re really good saddles for the price, especially if you have a horse with special fitting needs and don’t mind something a little utilitarian.
I ended up getting the T8. Have since replaced it with an Antares Spooner, but the Thoro was a good starter jump saddle.
Thank you very much for the feedback. The photo of the saddle in action is a great help.
You guys look great together! Back to more dithering 
Kent & Master…?
Hi Poppigirl,
I am a stockiest for Fairfax, KM and Thorowgood.
You’ll find that most of the models are actually pretty similar, but the big distinction is that KM opts for all leather while Thorowgoods are not.
Does the KM have a compact version?
Yes, I believe so. They are changing up their lineup at the moment.
Do you mind if I send you a pm?
Of course not, please do.
By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You may also receive promotional emails from The Chronicle of the Horse. You can opt out at any time.
For Customers
Company
Terms of Use
