I have liked the Pessoa, and earlier the Dover Circuit, though the Circuit doesn’t look as good as it used to. Asking your expert opinions.
Not a trainer but Barnsby or harry dabs are both solid would flocked saddle that have super forward flaps. Especially the Barnsby Schokemohle which is fantastic and very forward cut. You should be able to find them used for about $1000
If you can get your hands on one, a Dominus.
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Look for one of the higher quality used saddles that originally sold at a lower price point: Dominus, Jaguar, Bruno de Heusch, or an old PJ or Phillipe Fontaine.
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Not a trainer but another vote for Pessoa from me! I just bought a used one for well under $1000 (including shipping) from an actual tack shop that offered a generous trial period. Plus they have the adjustable gullet which seems like a good idea for a junior.
Also not a trainer but I use a prestige paris classic. I need a long foward flap and this was the best I found. They tend to be pricier but I got mine used for WAY less and despite it being over ten years old it is still in amazing condition.
I’d look for a used higher quality saddle. Devoucoux are a favorite of mine back when I was riding multiple horses a day
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Just a bit of trivia. Dominus was designed by the same guy, Peter Menet that created Amerigo saddles
There is a nice used Dominus sitting at Saddler’s Row - I think they ship nationwide.
I just rode in a Dover Circuit yesterday- I think the Eq Special. Great dupe for an old school Beval Natural and a good fit for my long forward leg. Several of our barn kids have them and they’ve held up well. I’ve been impressed with the measures the brand has taken to improve their quality at a reasonable price point. I would take them seriously.
I’m going to second the prestige if it will fit the horse. I need a forward flat and they’re by far the best balanced for my purposes, and you can often pick them up reasonably priced used.
I have two riders in various Circuit models, one is forward flap. I am a fan at the price point. They fit the riders and horses well.l, and have held up really well with good care. Worth a try, I think they still do trial saddles!
I will preface this by saying two things: I am not a trainer and I never thought I’d own a Pessoa saddle again. However, I had a horse that was very particular about saddle fit and a very strict budget. I ended up buying a synthetic wool flocked Pessoa Legacy saddle for $850.00 last fall and it has been one of the best purchases I have made. My horse loved the saddle, the leather is not slick like some of the other Pessoa and it has a very forward flap. The forward flap isn’t 100% necessary for me since I don’t jump, but it would be great for a long legged kid who does.
