17″ Bates Haute Ecole Dressage Saddle

We all know and love Bates saddles for their adjustable gullet system saddles, but did you know that they once made fixed tree saddles, too?! This is an older one from Bates, with a fixed tree, but it’s really cool! It has all the feel of an older Isabelle Werth saddle in full buffalo leather that is butter soft. Bates calls this model the Haute Ecole, which refers to advanced dressage movement, designed with the classical dressage rider in mind. Offers a formed flap with shaped blocking that brilliantly stabilizes the leg without being confining. It has a long, shaped, moderate block at the front of the flap with a low/shallow long block at the rear of the flap as well. Has a generous fitting 17″ seat that is semi deep with a very narrow twist. The flap design, 3/4 sweat flap, and the lower panels gives this saddle an incredibly close contact feel. On a Wide tree that measures 5.75″. The tree shape is more “U” shaped and is slightly curved, with a wider channel. This would be a great option for a wider horse with just a bit of shape to their top line. The sweat flap isn’t full length-would consider them 3/4 length, which really helps reduce bulk under your leg. This saddle is full buffalo leather that is textured and durable, offering excellent grip and security. This saddle has been ridden in lots, showing quite a few cosmetic blemishes, but has also been very well cared for. The leather on this saddle is incredibly soft. Has had a professional flap repair where there was some rubbing on the lower part of each flap. The repair was professionally done with matching buffalo leather, and was done very well. However, the square patch is visible. Billets have been replaced and are in good condition. The sweat flaps are a bit dry and slightly rolled, but have already softened from a bit of conditioning. The underside of the jockey (not visible) has some rubbing from the buckle of leathers. Has a few minor nicks and scuffs, but again this lovely saddle has been maintained well. This is an incredibly affordable, quality saddle to get you into dressage!

Measurments:

• Seat: 17″, fitting generously
• Tree/Gullet: Wide, 5.75″
• Flap: 17″
• Panel: 18.5″
• Gussets: 2″
• Flocking: Foam