8 Reasons the Bates Wide Dressage saddle is right for you.
Bates Wide Dressage Saddles - The Ultimate Guide
When it comes to dressage riding, the saddle is a crucial piece of equipment. It not only provides comfort and support for the rider but also needs to allow for the correct and free movement of the horse. Bates is a renowned name in the equestrian world, and their wide dressage saddles are highly sought after for their quality, design, and performance. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of Bates wide dressage saddles, exploring their features, benefits, and why they are a popular choice among dressage riders with wider horses.
At the end of this blog if you have any saddle related question please do get in touch with our super helpful team on 01733 301488 or email info@thesaddlebank.com
Understanding the Bates Wide Dressage saddle
Bates wide dressage saddles are specifically designed to accommodate wider horses with broader backs. These saddles offer a wider gullet and tree to ensure a comfortable fit for horses with a more substantial build. The wider design is ideal for horses which are larger than a 1XW (up to 4XW) in width. The panel design helps distribute the rider’s weight more evenly and CAIR cushion panels minimise pressure points, promoting better movement and performance from the horse.
The Bates Wide Dressage saddle is available in seat sizes from 16.5 up to 18 inch. Therefore it works well on smaller cobby types, and larger broader breeds.
Features of the Bates Wide Dressage Saddle
Bates wide dressage saddles boast a range of features that set them apart from many other brands in the equestrian world. Some key features include:
Easy Change Adjustable Gullet System
Bates saddles are equipped with an adjustable gullet system, allowing riders to customise the fit of the saddle to suit their horse’s shape and width. The WIDE range is available from 1XW to 4XW. You can purchase gullet bars for your Bates Wide Dressage saddle here.
Note: the WIDE range of saddles are not designed to take the standard gullet bars, doing so could cause damage to your saddle and would void your warranty and lifetime guarantee on the tree.
CAIR Cushion System
These saddles incorporate the innovative CAIR cushion system, which provides superior comfort and support through the use of 'air' distributing the riders weight evenly across the horses back. The CAIR system and panels also allow for precise and measurable adjustments to be made by inserting the Easy Change Risers (shims) directly into the panels of the saddle. This is ideal for wider cobs who have a bit of shape to their back, or more of a wither. By inserting the risers you can customise the fit to your horse.
Wider Gullet Channel
The Bates Wide range takes into consideration the build of wider types and offers a wider channel to allow plenty of space for your horses wider spine.
Y-Girthing System
The Y-Girthing system featured on this saddle offers optimal stability without restricting the horses movement.
Performance driven design
Bates wide dressage saddles are engineered with a focus on performance, offering close contact and optimal balance to aid riders in achieving their best performance in the dressage arena.
Quality Craftmanship
Each Bates saddle is crafted with precision and attention to detail, using high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity.
What does the Bates WIDE dressage offer you as a rider?
Unlike some brands Bates have ensured that riders of wider horses still have the same deep seat and ultra narrow waist that is offered on the standard dressage model.
The ultra narrow waist and deep dressage seat enable you as a rider to be able to sit deeper into the saddle, this helps support a central and well balanced position.
The moveable flexiblocs are adjustable so you can move them to aid you in getting your optimum leg position and the padded knee pads are moulded for added rider comfort.
If you think this could be the right dressage saddle for you click here to see our current stock!
Leather types
Bates offer three different leather options on many of their saddles. The Bates Wide is available in Heritage and Opulence leather.
Heritage leather is the most popular. It is a little more affordable than the Opulence leather. It offers a smooth, waxy feel on the flaps which offers the rider some grip and support.
Browse Bates Wide Heritage Dressage saddles for sale here.
Opulence leather on the other hand is a little more pricey. This is a full grain leather which offers a little more luxury.
Browse Bates Wide Opulence Dressage saddles for sale here.
Both saddles fit the same, it is simply the type of leather used which differs. On the image below the Heritage leather is on the left, with the Opulence leather on the right. You can read more about the three different leather types offered by Bates here.
Benefits of Bates Wide Dressage Saddles
Riders who choose Bates wide dressage saddles can enjoy a multitude of benefits, including:
Enhanced Comfort
The wider design of these saddles ensures that horses with broader backs can move freely without experiencing discomfort or restriction. If your horse is more comfortable, they will naturally be able to move better and perform better. Whether you are schooling for fun, or out competing to win, the Bates Wide dressage saddle will help take you and your wide horse to wherever you want to go!
Customisable Fit
The adjustable gullet system allows the saddle to be easily adapted to fit to an ever changing horse. Just as we age and change shape, so do our horses. Its really important to be able to adjust the fit of your saddle from the width through to the fit of the panels. The Bates Wide dressage saddle offers and exceptional amount of fit solutions. Therefore, is ideal for someone looking to invest in a saddle which can be adapted as the horse changes.
Performance Improvement
With its focus on balance and close contact, Bates wide dressage saddles helps contribute to improved performance in the dressage arena, allowing riders to communicate effectively with their horses. If your horse is more comfortable, and you are comfortable in the saddle you will be able to focus on creating a harmonious relationship between horse and rider which elevate you up the levels.
Longevity
Thanks to their durable construction and high-quality materials, Bates wide dressage saddles are built to last, making them a sound investment for riders. The saddle comes with a lifetime warranty on the tree from new!
Why choose a Bates Wide Dressage saddle?
The reputation of Bates as a leading equestrian brand speaks volumes about the quality and performance of their wide dressage saddles. Riders who prioritise comfort, fit customisation, and performance in their dressage endeavors often turn to Bates for their saddle needs. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Bates continues to be a top choice for discerning riders seeking quality saddles for themselves and their equine partners.
If you are looking for a new dressage saddle for your cob or wide horse, a Bates could be the ideal saddle for you. If you would like some help and advice, why not get personalised recommendations for your horse here.
If you would like to browse Bates Wide Dressage saddles for sale, you can do so here.
Don't forget our team are on hand to help answer any questions you may have. Feel free to get in touch info@thesaddlebank.com or call 01733 301 488.
