Let me know your thoughts! I am wondering about wear with the leather. To be clear lets talk about full calfskin, not grained calf.
This topic comes up a lot. The short version is “pro: soft feel, adds some grip and tack. con: delicate, requires diligent tack care and purchase of calfskin leathers.” That said, not all calfskin is made equal just like not all grain leather is made equal. A lot of what passes for “calfskin” on mid-range and low-end saddles is practically like toilet paper. But many of the higher-end brands are using good-quality calfskin leathers.
http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?232751-Calf-skin-or-buffalo-hide-for-new-saddle
http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?322697-Calf-Skin-Saddle-Care
http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?256766-CWD-grain-calf-buffalo-combo-!-!
Awesome thanks so much!
Full calf is very comfortable, grippy and breaks in easily. It is not as durable as grain although I know lots of people whose calfskin saddles gave them many years of use. It also marks up easily from the leathers etc. it’s really a matter of personal preference.
I have had two calfskin saddles (childeric and devoucoux). With riding 5 days a week, both had holes in the flaps within 3 years. I had calfskin leathers.
I opted for grain flap (calf knee/seat) with the new saddle and as long as you go with a good quality grain, its very nice.
I think if you only ride one horse 3-5 days a week with breeches, a full calf saddle may last 6-8 years before repair is needed.
