Bespoke XC Valor Saddle
Our cross country saddle, Valor, is dynamically designed with the rider and horse in mind. While bravely soaring over tables, splashing through water obstacles, and galloping across the show course, you both will find maximum comfort. Our billets are designed to support long wear during competition through our specialized billet system that keeps the saddle moving with the horse, rather than separate from. The panels are always wool flocked, the gullet set to your horses needs, and the tree selected for both horse and rider. Our seat is exceedingly comfortable and the flaps are thin for a close contact feel but, cushioned just enough to keep tired legs stable. We created a longer, ergonomic skirt with additional padding around the stirrup bars to give support to the rider’s upper leg. Traditionally made with a flat seat, exposed blocks, and contrast stitching. We decided on calfskin in a rich Chocolate Brown and a true Black hue to fulfill stylistic preference. Buyers have the choice to customize stitching, binding, flap shape, size, and type (dual or mono), as well as logo style (embossed or sewn).
Saddle Tree: Our trees made by hand, constructed with laminated beechwood, treated for strength and reenforced in the arches with a steel plate. This allows for ultimate longevity and the perfect base for form our panels off of.
Panels: Excellent panels are essential to the health of a horse's back. This is why we offer two forms of panels, soft foam or long lasting synthetic wool. The performance between the two are extremely similar, however, foam is better suited for saddles on multiple horses. We also offer two styles of panels, French or Standard, both of which are stylistic preference. French panels are thinner while our Standard panels are thicker. Regardless of your preferences, all Barnes saddles are designed to support and protect your horse specifically. We highly recommend working with your saddle fitter to get the appropriate width of your panels.
Flaps: All Barnes saddles are made with flaps custom to the rider's wants and needs, including placement of our latex foam blocks at the rear and front. We have standard dimensions as well as custom shapes that we can collaborate with your fitter over. All of our flaps are ergonomically designed and thoughtfully crafted for contact with the horse.
Seat: Always made with the rider in mind, we create every seat with the most comfortable, yet connected ride possible. Seats range from 16.5 to 18 depending on the build/height of the rider.
