Bates Kimberley HB Short Fender Saddle

Product Overview

The Bates Kimberley HB Short Fender Saddle is a premium hybrid stock saddle designed to combine the stability of a traditional stock saddle with the close-contact feel associated with English and Western riding. The HB designation refers to its half-breed style, making it a versatile option for riders who enjoy trail riding, stock work, and extended hours in the saddle.

Featuring a supportive seat, sculpted fenders, and cushioned poley pads, the Kimberley HB is designed to help riders maintain a secure, comfortable position over varied terrain. Its short-fender configuration is intended for riders who need a shorter leg-length setup, offering an alternative to the regular-fender version.

The saddle’s broad, soft panels are designed to distribute pressure across a larger area of the horse’s back, while the wide spinal channel helps provide clearance around the spine. With advanced Horse and Rider Technology (HART), an adjustable girthing system, and premium leather construction, the Bates Kimberley HB combines traditional stock-saddle styling with modern fitting technology.

Key Features

• Short Fender Configuration: Provides a shorter fender option for riders whose leg length suits a more compact setup.
• Hybrid Half-Breed Design: Combines elements of stock, Western, and English riding styles.
• Supportive, Balanced Seat: Designed to promote stability and comfort during extended riding sessions.
• Sculpted Fenders: Contour around the rider’s legs to support a close-contact feel and natural leg movement.
• Poley Knee Pads: Provide additional thigh support and help the rider maintain a secure position.
• Broad, Soft Panels: Designed to distribute pressure over a larger area of the horse’s back.
• Wide Spinal Channel: Helps maintain clearance around the horse’s spine when the saddle is correctly fitted.
• HART Technology: Integrates modern saddle construction designed to adapt to the horse’s shape and movement.
• Adjustable Y-Girthing System: Allows girthing adjustments to support saddle stability and pressure distribution.
• Premium Leather Construction: Provides a traditional equestrian finish with appropriate care and maintenance.
• Reinforced Hardware: Designed for dependable everyday use; inspect all fittings regularly.

Product Specifications

Why Choose the Bates Kimberley HB Short Fender Saddle?

The Bates Kimberley HB Short Fender Saddle is a practical choice for riders looking for a comfortable, supportive saddle for everyday outdoor riding. Its hybrid design accommodates riders familiar with different riding traditions, while the sculpted fenders and supportive poley pads help maintain a secure leg position.

The short-fender option is particularly useful when the regular fender is too long for the rider’s leg proportions. The saddle’s broad panels and wide spinal channel are designed with horse comfort in mind, while HART technology and adjustable girthing provide additional fitting flexibility.

Whether you ride on trails, work with livestock, or spend long days in the saddle, the Kimberley HB offers a combination of traditional styling, rider support, and modern saddle design.

Care and Maintenance

1. Remove dust, sweat, and dirt after each ride using a soft cloth or suitable brush.
2. Clean the leather with a product appropriate for the saddle’s specific leather finish.
3. Apply a compatible leather conditioner where appropriate, following Bates’ care guidance.
4. Store the saddle on a properly shaped saddle rack in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
5. Inspect the short fenders, stitching, girthing straps, stirrup attachments, and metal fittings regularly.
6. Check the saddle panels and overall structure periodically for signs of wear or changes in fit.
7. Arrange professional saddle-fitting assessments to maintain appropriate balance and contact with the horse’s back.

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 rider’s leg length should also be considered when choosing between the short and regular fender options.

A shorter fender does not automatically mean a better fit. The saddle should allow the rider to maintain a comfortable leg position without compromising balance, and the horse should move freely without pressure points.