Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle with Opulence Leather

Product Overview

The Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle with Opulence Leather is an English jumping saddle designed for riders participating in show jumping, equitation, and regular jumping practice. Combining a supportive seat with broad, tapered panels and premium Opulence Leather, this saddle is designed to promote rider balance, comfort, and effective communication between horse and rider.

Its soft, grippy Opulence Leather offers an immediate comfortable feel and reduces the traditional breaking-in period associated with some new leather saddles. The saddle’s adjustable Flexibloc system allows rider support to be customised, while the drop panel points and quilted panel detailing contribute to its distinctive construction.

Designed for riders progressing from jumping lessons to competitive riding, the Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle combines traditional equestrian styling with practical features intended to support performance and horse comfort.

Key Features

• Premium Opulence Leather: Soft, milled leather with a grippy texture designed to provide comfort, security, and a refined finish.
• Close Contact Design: Supports a balanced riding position and effective communication between horse and rider.
• Supportive Seat: Designed to help riders maintain balance and comfort during jumping and landing.
• Broad, Tapered Panels: Designed to provide supportive contact across the horse’s back while allowing freedom of movement.
• Adjustable Flexibloc System: Offers customisable knee and thigh support to accommodate different leg positions and rider preferences.
• Drop Panel Points: Feature a distinctive panel construction intended to support the saddle’s fit and profile.
• Quilted Panel Points: Add an elegant finishing detail to the saddle’s appearance.
• Multiple Flap Options: The Caprilli range offers different flap shapes, allowing riders to select a configuration suited to their leg position.
• Premium Leather Construction: Combines traditional craftsmanship with modern saddle design.
• Versatile Jumping Application: Suitable for show jumping, equitation, jumping lessons, and everyday schooling.

Product Specifications

Why Choose the Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle?

The Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle combines a jumping-focused design with premium leather and adjustable rider support. Its supportive seat is designed to help riders stay balanced over fences, while the broad, tapered panels provide a supportive interface between the saddle and the horse’s back.

The Opulence Leather finish is especially appealing to riders who value a soft, grippy feel without the extended breaking-in period that some leather saddles require. Its adjustable Flexibloc system also provides flexibility for riders who need to tailor knee and thigh support to their position.

Whether you are preparing for competitions, attending regular jumping lessons, or schooling at home, the Bates Caprilli is a practical option for riders looking for premium leather, classic styling, and supportive close-contact design.

Care and Maintenance

1. Wipe away dust, sweat, and dirt after every ride using a soft cloth.
2. Clean the Opulence Leather with a suitable equestrian leather cleaner.
3. Apply an appropriate leather dressing regularly to help prevent moisture loss and protect high-wear areas, following Bates’ care recommendations.
4. Avoid excessive use of oil or products that may alter the leather’s texture and grip.
5. Store the saddle on a properly shaped saddle rack in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
6. Inspect the billets, stitching, stirrup bars, girth attachments, and Flexibloc components regularly.
7. Arrange periodic professional inspections to assess the saddle’s structure, panels, and overall condition.

Saddle-Fitting Advice

Before purchasing, have a qualified saddle fitter assess the horse’s back shape, tree width, wither and spinal clearance, panel contact, and overall saddle balance. The rider’s seat size, leg length, and preferred jumping position should also be considered when selecting the flap configuration.

The correct flap shape and rider-support settings can improve comfort, but they cannot compensate for an incorrectly fitted saddle. Confirm the specific model’s available fitting adjustments with the seller before purchase.