Saddle question , Icelandic saddle for a TWH horse ?? Advice

[walkers]

I found a lovely used Icelandic saddle in my seat size and tree size for my flat backed, short backed, low whither 14’3 hand TWH horse.
Is there something different about Icelandic horses and their saddles that make this a bad idea. The saddle is not returnable so I’d be stuck with it.
As I don’t feel safe in a AP saddle i was trying to find something with a little more deep seat to it.

He is a very hard horse to fit with hos short back and big stride. Also my need for security.
Thanks

[GallopingGrape]

Nope, ignore the “breed” on the saddle maker and try it out on your horse. Make sure you get a good trial period. If its non returnable, I’d pass.

[GallopingGrape]

For some reason I can’t edit the post above, but I wanted to add… there are many saddles made for flat and short backed horses… Haflinger trees, Arabian, Icelandic… even some gaited trees have a nice wide tree, lots of flare and short back, not many, but they are out there. Ignore the “breed” of the saddle and make sure it fits.

[Anonymoose]

Check out some Icelandic websites.

According to some of them there is a trend away from Icelandic saddles even for Icelandics – poor fit, horse discomfort, etc.

If you want a deep-seated saddle you could look at dressage saddles. Or, if it doesn’t have to be a traditional “English” type saddle, what about something like a Buena Vista or another trail-type saddle with a deep seat?

[ADTC]

I enjoyed the Icelandic saddle I rode in on a trail ride (on an Icelandic) and I would think it would be a very comfy saddle for long trail rides. If it fits you and your horse, it could be a great choice.

The cut of an Icelandic or a dressage saddle generally keeps the saddle off the shoulders which is very desirable for a TWH. Dressage saddles are fantastic as trail saddles and can give you a very secure feel, so you might want to try some out before you decide on the Icelandic saddle you’re considering.

[walkers]

Thanks good advice but the saddle is not returnable so I’ll have to pass. I considered dressage for deep seat and high cantle but all these blocks seem very uncomfortable for a 3 hour pleasure ride. western style hurts my knees and hips plus he is very short backed…

[jdobbs64]

you buy what you want. My Neidersuss has no massive blocks and I find myself preferring it to the custom western I had made (shhh don’t tell DH).

this is not mine/not an ad for a saddle I’m a part of at all. but you can see- no blocks.

http://www.usedsaddlesmaryland.com/17.5--NIEDERSUSS-SYMPHONIE-DRESSAGE-SADDLE-P-1990.html