Well, I had a chance on Saturday to try out my new saddle. Yes the
front of this saddle is narrower than the older non-fleece bottomed
saddles. I compared it to three at the ride that friends were riding.
The under pads are pulled further up into the gullet of the front
forks so it would clear a high withered horse better. Perhaps having
the under pads pulled up into the gullet caused the stiffer feel at
the front. It doesn't feel as flexible as the older saddles around the
front of the saddle. However, my horse didn't seem to notice any
difference. I had just used one of the older models for 3 months
before switching to this new one. He went just fine and since he is
very fussy if a saddle does bother him I would have to say that this
one seems just fine. Very comfortable to me, stirrups in a good
position, I'm glad I didn't have them moved back.
Bonnie Snodgrass
--- Bonnie, I have to agree with you to a certain degree! I had al older endurance model Sport Saddle (nylon bottom), that seemed extremely flexible. I traded it to a friend, who sold it and bought a brand-new one, with fleece bottom. The newer one seems much stiffer. I ended up with another used one, nylon bottom, that seemed stiffer than the original one I had. I was pleased with this, since I felt the saddle could to stand to be a bit stiffer, anyway. Another change I have seen, is that the pommels seem to be either a thicker leather, or padded under the leather, from the older models.I may be one of the few, though, that LIKE the nylon bottom, and dislike the fleece. To me, the fleece seems like it would hold in heat on the back. Since I ride with a skito pad (fleece underside), then I would be riding with two layers of fleece, plus the skito foam
Anyway, it's still minor stuff, still love the saddle!
Karen
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