Re: Re: Re: ReactorPanel Saddle

["Karen Sullivan" <greymare@jps.net>]

----- Original Message -----
From: "Dawna Bynum-Boyd" <EndurzRider@worldnet.att.net>
> The ReactorPanel Saddle is a revolutionary design it sits on two panels --
> one on each side of the spine -- which are designed to reduce pressures
> under the saddle by increasing the weight-bearing surface of the saddle.
The
> two-panel system has a long history in saddle designs used in the military
> and for long distance riding

> The seats are built in the traditional way, with webbing strung along the
> spring tree and expertly pulled and fastened

>
. The
> panels sit on either side of the spine, completely avoiding the wither,
> spine, and spinous processes
>
>
I have a few questions  (have clipped pertinent parts)

If the panels are built on either side of the spine, and designed to bear,
and spread weight, then why do you even need the spring tree?  Is it
similiar to a standard english spring tree? My complaint with those is that
the stirrup bars are hung off the gullet part of the tree, making the rider
unbalanced and bringing pressure down on either side of the withers.

If this saddle is basically a solid tree attatched to flexible panels, then
how is it any different from an Orthoflex?

I know some of you love your Orthoflexes, but what I dislike about them is
the weight, the hard tree, and the distance they put you above the horses
back.

Going to Deb Bennet's web site, she mentions what has worked historically
are saddles that are flexible, stuffed leather pads on either side of the
spine........the tree becomes un-necessary, only problem becomes attatchment
of stirrups

Karen