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At Loch Ness Riding we have used Strada saddles
for about 8 years, on our competition and pleasure horses. We find them simply
the best. The panels are made of an intelligent thermo-plastic which, with the
heat of the horses back, moulds to the individual horse's conformation and
returns to shape when removed. The longer the saddle is on the horse, the
softer the panels.
I now have demo saddles in most fits and offer
fitting service in most parts of Scotland. Please contact me for further
details.
I am also happy for folk to come to our yard
where they can use our indoor school to try the saddles or hack out with me on
our hills if the saddle is required for endurance. Accommodation is available
for both horses and riders.
Strada saddles differ from most conventional saddles in the following way:
* There are 5 tree fits, designed for 5 different BACK SHAPES, not just width fittings. [A saddle only fits if the tree conforms to the horse's back as much as possible!]
* The tree has no metal components. It consists of birch ply, leather, carbon fibre and kevlar. The front arch and cantle are rigid, the rails are flexible. This gives the horse protection from the pressure of girth straps and stirrup bars, yet allows the saddle to move with the horse's back in all paces.
* The panels are made of a shock-absorbent visco-elastic foam, encased in a black multi-stretch material that is efficient at conducting heat. They are quite firm when cold, but are sensitive to heat and pressure and soften to a consistency comparable to raw steak after just a few minutes on the horse. They mould completely to the horse's shape, equalise pressure, eliminate bounce and give excellent stability without the aid of an overly-tight girth, even on round-backed horses. After use the panels return to their original shape. They need no maintenance.
Other facts:
* The 3 larger Strada fits are particularly useful when FITTING WIDE AND/OR ROUND HORSES of any breed, from Iberians to hefty Warmbloods to Cobs.
* Strada saddles are designed to be VERY close to the horse, giving the rider superb "feel" of every movement and allowing weight aids to be transmitted easily. The openness of the seat and the positioning of the stirrup bar permit the rider to sit in a relaxed, natural position.
* EVERYBODY involved with Strada saddles is an experienced rider. This includes the designer, the saddlers and the fitting team and we are proud to offer a personal, knowledgeable service. We insist that you and, above all else, YOUR HORSE are completely happy with the fit of a saddle before making a purchase.
* The saddles are individually made to order here in the UK and are available directly from the manufacturer, Strada Saddles UK Ltd. Please, contact us for any questions about our products and to arrange a fitting. For further information please visit
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