Does anybody know if the Wintec Isabelle comes in brown? I’ve seen in ads for Europe and Australia that they offer it in brown, but can’t find any mention of them here in the states. I’ve also heard there is a big difference in comfort and quality between the older and the newer versions…if I’m looking for a used saddle which years are the best? TIA!
It’s on their global site, but not their US site so you may have to order from overseas.
You used to be able to get the Isabelle in brown in the US (I have one!). There is a significant difference between the “older” style and the newer ones. The older ones are not as broad of a seat and have less saddle to them is the best way I can describe it. The new ones fit a broader backed horse better whereas the older versions can fit just about anything. I find the the old ones gives your more room for your inner thigh. I honestly find the newer one more comfortable for me when I ride my pony than the older one. My mother is the opposite she likes the old one. Personally, I would try to find an old one wool flocked if you can. They are well worth the money!
The original one had a V shaped seat and a long flap. It fit a specific type of tall, thin, rider without a butt very well, but was fairly versatile in terms of horse fit.
The next model I remember (still quite a long time ago) was very popular - more open in the seat, and relatively curvy in the panels.
Then there were many models I never took notice of, at least 10 years or so.
The most recent one I sat in a year ago was a lot bigger - wider in the seat, bigger in the blocks - and was clearly for a wide, flat horse.
Thanks so much for your observations and the global website! Build-wise, I’m on the small side at 5’5" 115 lbs., and am looking to fit my 15.3 fine boned OTTB mare - so it sounds like maybe an older one would be perfect. If I want to look for the older, more narrow style, would that mean pre-adjustable gullet and pre cair panels or not quite that old (I assume it will also mean pre-brown color option too)?
