Help advise needed on stirup leathers

[OwnedbyChanter]

Sorry I know nothing about this subject.

I have just purchased my first dressage saddle and am very happy with it but now I need to get some new leathers but I didn't know that there were different types.

What is the difference between t-bar and buckle and can I use either?

Any advise welcome

 

[eml]

I personally hate T bars...I see the logic of not having a buckle under your thigh but cannot see that they will come safely away in the event of a fall. One of my clients proudly showed me her new saddle and Tbars she couldn't get to go ON her stirrup bar. I said ..can we just use normal stirrups!!

 

[jovi_y2k2]

I don't like T-bars either seen too many cases of the holes either warping so the t-bar comes out or the leather actually breaking between the holes!

Normal stirrup leathers for me, with a slim buckle to reduce bulk under the thigh

 

[Kis Vihar]

You couldn't pay me to ride on T-bar leathers and we don't make them either.

We make a version with a buckle instead of a T-bar, but this requires permanent attachment of the irons to the leathers. It makes them financially not viable, as postage is so much.

For years, I rode on normal leathers. There's not THAT much bulk from a buckle.

 

[poohsmate]

I've never really liked the T-Bar ones They are to fiddly to put up! just move the buckle down to the stirrup if you find it bulky under your thigh.
Saying that like KV, iv'e never had a problem with the buckle at the top..

 

[OwnedbyChanter]

Thanks guys I knew NR would be able to help out I will buy the slip buckle ones instead.

 

[sbloom]

Well I'll buck the trend and say I like my single thickness leathers. They are nylon core with wrapped calf leather on both sides and have a Conway buckle which some people hate but I find really easy and can adjust easily. LIke these but wrapped:

http://www.blackcountrysaddles.com/bridlework/dressage_leathers

 

[Cortrasna]

Here is a link to the stirrup leathers I have - and originally got them for a dressage saddle - they are so soft and comfortable, would never use anything else now. Had them 4 years and still not stretched or worn out.

http://www.classicdressage.com/catalog/product.php?CI_ID=38&Item='Amerigo Stirrup leathers'

 

[Kis Vihar]

Two comments....

1) B**ger me I need to put our prices up again!

2) Wait 'til Trieste gets on here about bonded leathers! :giggle: