Bates WIDE All Purpose Saddle

Product Description

The Bates WIDE All Purpose Saddle is specifically designed for horses with broader backs and wider conformations. Combining a versatile all-purpose design with specialised panel construction, it aims to provide comfortable contact between horse and saddle while supporting the rider’s balance during general riding, flatwork and other everyday equestrian activities.

The saddle features a deep seat designed to support a secure, balanced riding position. Its wide and evenly distributed Performance Panels are shaped to support the horse’s working muscles and allow greater freedom around the shoulder area. The broader weight-bearing surface is designed to help distribute pressure across the horse’s back.

For rider support, the Bates WIDE All Purpose includes an adjustable Flexibloc system, moulded knee inserts and an ergonomic stirrup bar. These features help accommodate individual riding preferences and provide support around the leg.

Available in selected leather finishes and colours, the Bates WIDE All Purpose combines practical versatility with Bates saddle-fitting technology for riders who require a model designed specifically for wider horses.

Product Specifications

• Brand: Bates Saddles
• Product Name: Bates WIDE All Purpose Saddle
• Saddle Type: Wide-fit all-purpose / general-purpose saddle
• Intended Horse Type: Horses with broader backs and wider conformations
• Riding Applications: General riding, flatwork and recreational riding
• Seat Design: Deep seat
• Panel Design: Wide, evenly distributed Performance Panels
• Knee Support: Adjustable Flexibloc system with moulded knee inserts
• Stirrup Bar: Ergonomic Stirrup Bar
• Panel Details: Drop panel points and quilted panel points
• Girth Point Options: Adjustable Y-girthing configuration and other options, depending on specification
• Leather Options: Opulence, Heritage and Luxe Leather, depending on market and availability
• Colour Options: Classic Black and Classic Brown, subject to availability
• Seat Sizes: Available sizes vary by market; verify the exact size with the seller
• Approximate Weight: 7.2 kg (15.8 lb), according to the manufacturer

Key Features

• Designed for Wider Horses: Specially developed for horses with broader conformations that may require a different saddle shape from standard all-purpose models.
• Wide Performance Panels: Designed to provide a broad weight-bearing surface and support the horse’s working muscles.
• Shoulder Freedom: The panel design aims to accommodate movement around the shoulder area.
• Deep, Supportive Seat: Helps the rider maintain a balanced position during general riding and flatwork.
• Adjustable Flexibloc System: Allows the knee support to be adjusted to suit the rider’s leg position.
• Moulded Knee Inserts: Provide shaped support around the rider’s knees.
• Ergonomic Stirrup Bar: Designed to support comfortable stirrup positioning.
• Multiple Leather Options: Selected configurations allow a choice of leather finish.
• Versatile Riding Design: Suitable for riders seeking one saddle for a range of general riding activities.

Fit and Compatibility

The Bates WIDE All Purpose is intended for wider horses, but the word “WIDE” does not guarantee a suitable fit for every broad-backed horse. Correct fit depends on the horse’s wither shape, back contour, shoulder movement and the saddle’s balance and panel contact.

Before purchasing, confirm the saddle’s exact model, seat size, leather finish and girthing configuration. A qualified saddle fitter should assess the saddle on the intended horse to ensure appropriate clearance, even contact and freedom of movement.

For a pre-owned saddle, inspect the tree, panels, stitching, girthing points and knee-block adjustment system. Confirm the saddle’s condition and whether any fitting components are included.

Short Description

The Bates WIDE All Purpose Saddle is designed for broader horses and features wide Performance Panels, a deep seat, adjustable Flexibloc system, moulded knee inserts and an ergonomic stirrup bar. With selected leather and colour options, it offers an all-purpose design for general riding and flatwork while prioritising appropriate saddle contact for wider conformations.