Alternative uses for HM Griffin

[Wally]

How would the HM Thorowgood saddle fair for Icelandic gait riding?

It sounds good in as much as the bars are set far back.
Is there room to re-position the the rider in the saddle, or is the rider pretty much supported in one position?
Jumping does not enter the equasion!

I have used traditionally designed Icelandic saddles mostly because they have a set back bar and the panel is designed to distribute the weight of the rider over a very large area. The saddle I use is 21 inches and has a 3 inch cut back head.
I am always looking to improve things, traditional designs are not always the best. Does the HM saddle have a large panel area? Is it fairly flat?

 

[Sabine]

Hi!
In my experience the HM Thorowgood saddle is excellent for Icelandic "gait" riding! I've owned one since February and feel it helps both me and my Icelandics hugely. The medium size fitted mine fine but if you have a really chunky sort you might need the wide fitting. Also, it does only come in one seat size so if that's too small for your comfort then there isn't much choice, at the moment anyway. The stirrup bars being set further back makes it impossible for you to sit in any other way than correctly classical! For women it's the most comfortable saddle I've ever sat in (I use a seat-saver as well 'cause I'm skinny), it's smart looking, easy to clean, light, only £299 - I could go on and on - I love this saddle! For "style" the GP version looks slightly different on an Icelandic if you're used to the "straight cut look", but I believe the HM Dressage version is due out later this year (soon?) - even better!

It does have a large panel area without being far too big for a short Icelandic back, which most Icelandic saddles are. It's very wide in the gullet but the seat is not flat and there's no ring for a crupper, if you use one.
You are pretty much supported quietly in one position - the correct one! Why the need to re-position your seat for gait riding? If you sit too far back it will only make the horse stiff, hollow and more than likely evade the bit. I've had absolutely no problems with this saddle in the way of helping both pacey and trotty Icelandics to tölt clearly, with a rounded back, collected and on the bit which automatically also means you can easily get a word in regarding the choice of speed…!
We need to ask ourselves which is better for your horse - a big saddle that "takes the strain" so to speak or a slightly smaller saddle that simply helps you ride better?
I think you're right - "traditional" designs are not always the best…..

PS. I can thoroughly recommend training for Heather Moffett if you get the chance - I think she's ace!!!

 

[Heather]

HI Sabine,

Glad the saddle is working for you! I wondered if your Icelandics would be a bit to round for it, much as my Lippizaner is for instance! Obviously you are getting on well with it. Hope to see you again sometime (Sabine was an excellent student, folks a real pleasure to teach).


Heather