The Bates Close Contact saddle is truly innovative with its CAIR air panel system and Easy Change Gullet system. The Bates saddles are endorsed by Frank Madden, Beacon Hill Show Stables in Colts Neck, NJ, trainer of winning riders and horses at the top shows in the US.

The CAIR air panels are placed in the same part of the saddle as the flocking in traditionally stuffed panels. It provides an even weight distribution across the maximum area of the horse's back.

The Easy Change Gullet system allows you to change the fit of your saddle to suit your pony's changing shape. You can change the gullet plate in the head of the saddle to suit your pony in just a few minutes.

The tree is an elastiflex tree, designed to be rigid in the head while also possessing lateral flex to work with muscular movement. The tree is guaranteed for the lifetime of the saddle. Also included with the saddle are Bates Flexiblocs, moveable blocks under the flap allowing the rider to individually tailor their thigh and knee support.

The Bates saddles use pure aniline dyed leather as opposed to pigment finished. All leather is full grain and naturally finished from hand selected hides. Available in Caramel or Havana Brown colors in children's sizes 15 and 15 3/4. Adult sizes 16.5 - 18 with various flap lengths and styles are also available - please contact us.