17″ J Houghton Custom Dressage Saddle

If you don’t recognize this saddle maker, you are not alone. However we are sure glad this saddle motivated us to do some research! J Houghton & Sons, now known as Darwen Saddlers, was started in the late 1800s by William Houghton, and is still run by his descendants today. While J Houghton is more recognizable as harness builders, owners John Thomas and Bryan Galloway have won multiple national and international awards with the Society of Master Saddlers (MSA). This saddle is absolutely incredible! This saddle has all the look of a County Dressage saddle, but has the feel of a custom, high end saddle. Made from a heavier ounce textured leather that is in a rich chocolate brown (yes, its brown!). The textured leather is the same as what County calls XTR leather, that improves grip and we are of the saddle. The flaps and blocks feature this textured leather, with very soft and grippy, very lightly textured leather over the seat. This one is a generous fitting 17″ saddle with a narrow twist, wider seat that is quite scoopy. This saddle sucks you in and keeps you put. Has a high, half length and very bold external block that is wool flocked, offering ample equitation support without being confining. Has a long/low block under the flap. On a Medium tree that measures 5″. Despite the wider measurement, has an “A” shaped tree that offers ample wither clearance with shorter tree points. Moderate channel and slightly larger rear gussets, this one is perfect for a strong shoulders, uphill built horse. Is wool flocked, with the flocking very well maintained. The way the billets are set is great for a horse who needs the full saddle stabilized, with a high forward point billet, and far rear billet, securing the front and rear of the saddle well. Billets are in very good condition. While this saddle isn’t serialized, its clearly been well cared for and hasn’t seen much riding. XTR leather smooths with use, and this one has hardly smoothed from the leathers. Since the leather is a thicker, it appears stiff, but it appears its stiff more from lack of breaking in than neglect or poor care. Has a couple small scuffs, but are minor. Has a more visible scuff on the panel on the near side, but not significant. While you may not recognize the brand, don’t shy away from this one. The details and craftsmanship of this saddle are incredible. The welting is perfectly rolled, hand stitch lines perfectly straight, edges perfectly finished. No wonder the owners of Darwen Saddlers are so well renowned! If this saddle has more ‘brand’ recognition, it would be double the price.

Measurements:

• Seat: 17″
• Tree/Gullet: Medium, 5″
• Panel: 18.5″
• Flap: 17.25″
• Flocking: Wool
• Gussets: 2.5″
• Color: Chocolate Brown