I use a Freeform and absolutely love it! I can't ride in a treed saddle
anymore. It took a little getting used to. But I like less bulk and definitely
more english styled saddles. But if you would like more security I'd definitely
look into the bob Marshalls or the barefoots. The barefoots are really nice
saddles and come in western style with a horn. I don't have any slippage
problems with my freeform. I think barefoots slide more so than the freeforms
but that is only my experience. A good wool bottom pad should help that. I
definitely recommend a treeless! And the Barefoots are rather inexpensive
compared to the other treeless. Freeforms are 1200-1400 new now I think and
that's without pad, cinch, etc. The barefoots are significantly lower priced but
well made. I have seen the western style freeform. Doesn't look like it offers
more security than the english style. If you're more of a western saddle type
I'd go with Barefoot or Bob marshall.
Also, for the freeforms and the barefoots you can do a trial. Search
online. You get the saddle of your choice. Size, color, etc. Fitted with
whatever girth/stirrups/pads all brand new. You pay the shipping and like a 40
dollar charge. You get a 1-2 week trail period I believe and if it doesn't work
out you send it back. If you like it then that money goes to your new saddle! I
was going to do a trial before I found a real lightly used freeform only
about an hour from where I live. And from what I remember the people told me if
I needed another week for the trial they had no problem. Definitely a good
method for selling their products!
