I was really leery of using "untested" gear in competition; used it
anyway on the Warner Springs ride yesterday. Had previously ridden in
my 5 yr old Ortho-flex cutback which had sored my horse to the point
that she risked her completion in the last ride.
Anyway, this cinch buckles back on itself on both sides and completely
replaces the yucky nylon "stock" rigging, reducing the bulk
considerably. It can actually be adjusted from the saddle, has a D ring
for breast collar attachment, and was reasonably priced compared to the
neoprene I'd always used.
My horse got BC on the LD, so the cinch and saddle combo obviously
worked well. I cannot recommend the suede for distance riding, though,
it abraded the skin badly on the back of my thighs, and the training
model has stirrups hung in the "chair seat" position. FWIW, we cantered
most of the distance.
Janeen is working on a new pad specifically for the SS, which looks
promising. She's hoping to have it done by convention.
Lynne
and Rem-member Me