Collegiate Graduate Close Contact Saddle

Product Overview

The Collegiate Graduate Close Contact Saddle is a traditional English jumping saddle designed to support rider security, balance, and comfort during show jumping, equitation, flatwork, and everyday schooling. Crafted from high-quality, naturally tanned leather, this saddle combines classic styling with practical features for riders who want a supportive position over fences.

The saddle features an Argentinian cowhide leather seat, durable buffalo leather flaps, and stylish contrast stitching. Its semi-deep seat and square cantle provide a supportive seating profile, while triangular front and thigh blocks help the rider maintain a secure leg position.

The Collegiate Graduate also features a quick-changeable gullet system, allowing the gullet width to be adjusted with compatible plates to accommodate changes in the horse’s shape. Supplied with a Medium gullet in the referenced standard configuration, it is a versatile option for riders seeking a traditional leather close contact saddle.

Key Features

• Naturally Tanned Leather: Argentinian cowhide seat offers a soft, supple feel and traditional appearance.
• Durable Buffalo Leather Flaps: Textured leather provides durability and additional grip.
• Close Contact Design: Supports communication between horse and rider during jumping and flatwork.
• Semi-Deep Seat: Helps promote rider balance and security over fences.
• Square Cantle: Provides a classic English saddle profile.
• Triangular Front and Thigh Blocks: Help support a stable and consistent leg position.
• Molded Knee Pads: Add structure and support to the flap area.
• Contrast Stitching: Creates an attractive, refined finish.
• Quick-Changeable Gullet System: Allows gullet-width adjustments using compatible interchangeable plates.
• Medium Gullet Included: Supplied with a Medium gullet according to retailer specifications.
• Versatile Riding Application: Suitable for show jumping, equitation, schooling, and general riding.
• Listed Warranty Coverage: Retailers advertise a 10-year saddle-tree warranty and a 2-year saddle warranty, subject to applicable terms.

Product Specifications

Why Choose the Collegiate Graduate Close Contact Saddle?

The Collegiate Graduate combines traditional leather craftsmanship with a design focused on rider security and close contact. Its semi-deep seat and triangular thigh blocks help riders maintain a balanced position, while the buffalo leather flaps provide a durable surface for regular schooling and jumping.

The interchangeable gullet system offers added fitting flexibility when the horse’s body shape changes. This feature can be useful when managed as part of a complete saddle-fitting assessment by a qualified professional.

With its classic square cantle, contrast stitching, and leather construction, the Graduate is suitable for riders looking for a functional jumping saddle with a traditional appearance.

Care and Maintenance

1. Wipe away dust, dirt, and sweat after each ride with a soft cloth.
2. Clean the leather using a suitable equestrian leather cleaner.
3. Apply a compatible leather conditioner according to the manufacturer’s care instructions.
4. Avoid excessive oiling and harsh cleaning products that may affect the leather’s finish or grip.
5. Store the saddle on a properly shaped saddle rack in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
6. Inspect the billets, stitching, knee blocks, stirrup bars, and girth attachments regularly.
7. Arrange periodic professional inspections of the saddle’s structure and panels.
8. Use only the gullet plates compatible with the specific saddle version.

Saddle-Fitting Advice

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

The interchangeable gullet system allows adjustments to gullet width, but changing the gullet plate alone does not guarantee a correct fit. Confirm whether the saddle uses the Collegiate Series II or Opti-Fit Series III system, as the plates are not interchangeable between systems.

Ordering Information

Before placing your order, confirm the required seat size, colour, saddle condition, and installed gullet plate. Ask the seller to verify the exact gullet system and whether additional plates are included or sold separately.

Check the applicable warranty terms and confirm whether stirrup leathers, stirrups, a saddle cover, or other accessories are included. Contact the seller to verify current availability, final pricing, shipping costs, and delivery arrangements before completing your purchase.

Short Description

• Brand: Collegiate
• Product: Graduate Close Contact Saddle
• Saddle Type: English close contact / jumping saddle
• Seat Material: Naturally tanned Argentinian cowhide leather
• Flap Material: Buffalo leather
• Seat Design: Semi-deep seat with square cantle
• Rider Support: Triangular front and thigh blocks
• Gullet System: Quick-changeable interchangeable system
• Standard Gullet: Medium
• Seat Sizes: 16.5″, 17″, and 17.5″, subject to availability
• Colours: Black or brown
• Ideal For: Show jumping, equitation, flatwork, and schooling
• Tree Warranty: Listed as 10 years; confirm applicable terms
• Saddle Warranty: Listed as 2 years; confirm applicable terms
• Condition: To be confirmed by seller
• Accessories: Confirm gullet plate and other fittings with the seller
• Fitment: Professional saddle fitting recommended