Bates Innova Mono+ CAIR Dressage Saddle

Product Overview

The Bates Innova Mono CAIR Dressage Saddle is a premium English dressage saddle designed for riders seeking exceptional close contact, a balanced riding position, and personalised leg support. Featuring an innovative monoflap design, a deep yet open seat, and advanced saddle-fitting technology, it is designed to help improve communication between horse and rider during flatwork and dressage training.

The saddle features the anatomically contoured, adjustable FlexiContourbloc®, which allows riders to position the external knee block according to their individual leg shape and riding preferences. Its adjustable ergonomic stirrup bar also offers flexibility when refining stirrup position and rider alignment.

For the horse, the CAIR® Cushion System uses air-filled panels designed to distribute pressure across the saddle’s bearing surface, while the EASY-CHANGE® Fit Solution offers adjustable gullet and compatible panel-fitting options. Available in several seat sizes and leather finishes, the Bates Innova Mono+ combines premium craftsmanship with practical fitting flexibility for everyday dressage and competition preparation.

Key Features

• Monoflap Construction: Reduces the layers between the rider’s leg and the horse to promote a close-contact feel.
• Deep, Open Seat: Provides supportive seating while allowing freedom to refine the rider’s position.
• Adjustable FlexiContourbloc®: Anatomically contoured external knee support that can be repositioned to suit the rider’s leg and preferred position.
• Adjustable Ergonomic Stirrup Bar: Allows stirrup-bar positioning to be adjusted for improved rider alignment.
• CAIR® Cushion System: Uses sealed air-filled panels designed to cushion the horse’s back and distribute pressure.
• EASY-CHANGE® Fit Solution: Provides options for adjusting gullet width and compatible panel-fitting components.
• Performance Panels: Designed to provide supportive contact across the horse’s back and accommodate movement during work.
• Quilted Panel Points: Add a refined finish while supporting the saddle’s close-contact panel design.
• Running Y-Girthing System: Designed to help distribute girthing tension and improve saddle stability.
• Quick-Change Girth Points: Provide practical options for adjusting the girthing configuration.
• Recessed Stirrup Channel: Helps reduce bulk beneath the rider’s leg.
• Premium Leather Choices: Available in selected Opulence or Luxe leather finishes, depending on the specific model and retailer.

Product Specifications

Why Choose the Bates Innova Mono+ CAIR Saddle?

The Bates Innova Mono+ CAIR Saddle is designed for dressage riders who value a close connection with their horse alongside personalised rider support. Its monoflap construction creates a streamlined feel, while the deep, open seat provides support without unnecessarily restricting the rider’s position.

The adjustable FlexiContourbloc® and ergonomic stirrup bar are particularly useful for riders who need to fine-tune knee support and stirrup alignment. Meanwhile, the CAIR® system and EASY-CHANGE® Fit Solution provide options for addressing horse comfort and saddle fit through appropriate professional adjustments.

With its sophisticated leather finish, supportive panel design, and adjustable components, the Innova Mono+ is a compelling option for riders progressing in dressage and seeking a premium saddle for regular training or competition.

Care and Maintenance

1. Remove dust, sweat, and dirt after each ride using a soft cloth.
2. Clean the leather with a suitable equestrian leather cleaner.
3. Apply a compatible leather conditioner or dressing according to Bates’ care recommendations, particularly if the saddle has a premium Opulence or Luxe leather finish.
4. Avoid excessive oiling and harsh cleaning products that may affect the leather’s texture or 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, FlexiContourbloc® fittings, and girth attachments regularly.
7. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for gullet adjustments and compatible fitting components. The sealed CAIR® panels should not be opened or inflated.
8. Arrange periodic professional inspections to assess saddle condition and continued suitability for the horse.

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 shape, and preferred riding position should also be considered when adjusting the FlexiContourbloc® and stirrup-bar placement.

The EASY-CHANGE® system provides useful adjustment options, but changing the gullet plate alone does not guarantee a correct fit. The complete saddle must be assessed on the individual horse, both standing and under a rider.