Henri de Rivel Dresseur Dressage Saddle

Product Overview

The Henri de Rivel Dresseur Dressage Saddle is an English dressage saddle designed to support riders in developing a balanced, controlled position during flatwork, schooling, and dressage training. Featuring grippy covered leather, a medium-deep seat, and removable knee blocks, this saddle combines traditional equestrian styling with practical features for everyday riding.

Its slightly cut-back pommel is designed to provide additional clearance around the withers, while the premium wool-flocked panels offer cushioning and allow adjustments by a qualified saddle fitter. Reinforced long billet straps support durable girthing, and the strengthened lower flap helps withstand wear from regular use.

The saddle also incorporates the Interchangeable Gullet Plate (IGP) System, allowing compatible gullet plates to be changed to adjust the gullet width. With its classic black finish and supportive design, the HDR Dresseur is a practical option for riders seeking comfort, durability, and adaptable fitting features for dressage.

Key Features

• Dressage-Specific Design: Developed for flatwork, schooling, and dressage training.
• Grippy Covered Leather: Provides a secure feel and a refined finish designed for regular equestrian use.
• Medium-Deep Seat: Supports a balanced riding position and close contact with the horse.
• Slightly Cut-Back Pommel: Designed to provide additional clearance for horses with prominent withers, subject to correct saddle fit.
• Removable Knee Blocks: Allow rider support to be adjusted according to personal preference and leg position.
• Premium Wool-Flocked Panels: Provide cushioning and allow professional adjustments to improve panel contact.
• Reinforced Lower Flaps: Help improve durability in areas exposed to repeated contact and wear.
• Nylon-Lined Reinforced Long Billet Straps: Designed to provide durable girthing support and practical girth adjustment.
• IGP Interchangeable Gullet System: Allows gullet-width adjustments using compatible interchangeable plates.
• Classic Black Finish: Offers a timeless appearance suitable for schooling, lessons, and dressage training.

Product Specifications

Why Choose the Henri de Rivel Dresseur Dressage Saddle?

The HDR Dresseur Dressage Saddle combines supportive seating with practical details designed for regular dressage work. Its medium-deep seat helps riders establish a balanced position, while the removable knee blocks offer flexibility for different leg positions and riding preferences.

The wool-flocked panels allow professional adjustments to accommodate the horse’s back, while the IGP system offers additional flexibility through interchangeable gullet plates. The slightly cut-back pommel may be beneficial for certain high-withered horses, although individual fitting remains essential.

Its grippy leather exterior, reinforced flaps, and durable long billets make this saddle a useful option for riders seeking a combination of comfort, traditional styling, and practical construction.

Care and Maintenance

1. Wipe away dust, dirt, and sweat after each ride using a soft cloth.
2. Clean the covered leather with a suitable equestrian leather cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s conditioning recommendations.
3. Store the saddle on a properly shaped saddle rack in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
4. Inspect the billet straps, stitching, stirrup bars, girth attachments, and reinforced flap areas regularly.
5. Have the wool-flocked panels checked periodically by a qualified saddle fitter.
6. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when changing IGP gullet plates.
7. Arrange regular professional inspections to assess the saddle’s structure, panel condition, and overall suitability.

Saddle-Fitting Advice

Before purchasing, ask a qualified saddle fitter to assess the horse’s back shape, tree width, wither and spinal clearance, panel contact, and overall saddle balance. The saddle should remain stable and allow freedom of movement during ridden work.

Although the cut-back pommel is designed to provide additional wither clearance, it does not guarantee a correct fit for every high-withered horse. Likewise, changing the IGP gullet plate alone does not ensure that the entire saddle fits correctly.