What is the difference between a treeless saddle, leather tree saddle and flexible saddle?
Treeless saddle - Leather tree saddle - Flexible saddle
What is the difference and what effects do the saddles have on the horse and riding?
In general:
What is important for the horse?
First of all, the saddle must optimally distribute the rider's weight on the horse's back, thus protecting the horse's back. It should ideally move three-dimensionally with the movement and leave the spine and withers free. It should also not slip.
What is important for the rider?
The rider should naturally be balanced and comfortable and be able to follow the horse's movements. The rider should be able to get through the aids easily and have a stable, secure seat.
We would be happy to advise you on this topic with a video call!
Treeless saddle
The treeless saddle / riding pad
The pressure distribution of these "saddles" remains to be seen. They are certainly a good choice as a temporary solution. However, we would advise against them in the long term for these reasons.
Often a lot of padding has to be placed underneath, which gives the rider a "leaning on the horse" and spongy seat feeling.
To be fair, it has to be said that the saddle/pad is still better than riding bareback.
A treeless saddle is therefore not always the best choice.
Leather tree saddle
Leather tree saddle
In our opinion, thanks to its flexible construction, the Lederbaum saddle is the most comfortable solution for most horses. And not just for horses! The seat is very soft on almost all of our models, so you can ride for hours in the saddle.
The freedom of the spine and withers is guaranteed by a shaping element in the stirrup suspension area (numerous pressure tests have been successfully passed). The Lederbaum saddle is the perfect companion for both dressage and riding!
Even small jumps are no problem.
Flexible saddle
The flexible saddle / saddle tree
Saddles with flexible saddle trees are well suited for "sport horses" or "horses with competition ambitions" and we have had flexible saddle trees (made of plastic) in our program for many years.
This is for those customers who do not feel comfortable in a leather tree saddle and / or want something "classic". The tree moves easily in three dimensions with the horse's movement.
The saddle must be padded accordingly and the gullet plate selected accordingly.
Are you interested?
We would be happy to advise you with a video call on the subject of treeless saddles, flexible saddles or leather tree saddles!
We answer open questions on the subject of treeless saddles, flexible saddles or leather tree saddles!
You can also reach us with questions via our contact form
