Bates Isabell Icon Dressage Saddle

Product Overview

The Bates Isabell Icon Saddle is a premium English dressage saddle developed in collaboration with world-renowned dressage champion Isabell Werth. Combining sophisticated craftsmanship with advanced saddle-fitting technology, this saddle is designed to promote rider balance, precise communication, and freedom of movement for the horse during dressage training and competition.

Crafted with luxurious Luxe Leather, the Isabell Icon features an ultra-narrow waist and a carefully designed seat that helps position the rider centrally and securely. Its streamlined profile supports close contact between horse and rider, while the adjustable ergonomic stirrup bar allows the rider’s leg position to be refined for greater comfort and alignment.

The saddle incorporates Bates’ SynergyPanel technology, the CAIR Cushion System, and Horse and Rider Technology (HART). Its adjustable Y-girthing system is designed to distribute girthing pressure and improve saddle stability. With its elegant finish and performance-focused construction, the Bates Isabell Icon is an excellent choice for dedicated dressage riders seeking premium comfort, precision, and adaptability.

Key Features

• Luxe Leather Construction: Premium calf leather offering a soft, supple feel, rich colour, and excellent grip.
• Ultra-Narrow Waist: Designed to bring the rider closer to the horse and encourage a natural, connected riding position.
• Balanced Dressage Seat: Supports central seating, stability, and effective communication during dressage movements.
• Adjustable Ergonomic Stirrup Bar: Allows stirrup-bar positioning to be adjusted to refine the rider’s leg alignment.
• Bates SynergyPanel System: Features a streamlined, low-profile panel design intended to improve shoulder clearance and close contact.
• CAIR Cushion System: Uses sealed air-filled panels designed to cushion the horse’s back and distribute pressure.
• HART Technology: Integrates protective cushioning, fitting adjustability, an Elastiflex tree, performance panels, and rider-comfort features.
• Adjustable Y-Girthing System: Designed to distribute girthing pressure along the saddle and improve stability when correctly adjusted.
• Movable Overgirth: Provides an additional adjustment for saddle stability.
• Wide Spinal Channel: Designed to provide clearance around the horse’s spine when the saddle is correctly fitted.
• Elegant Dressage Styling: Refined leatherwork and distinctive detailing create a sophisticated appearance suitable for schooling and competition.

Product Specifications

Why Choose the Bates Isabell Icon Dressage Saddle?

The Bates Isabell Icon combines premium materials with carefully designed features intended to enhance dressage performance. Its ultra-narrow waist encourages a closer connection with the horse, while the balanced seat helps the rider maintain a stable, central position during precise movements.

The adjustable ergonomic stirrup bar gives riders additional flexibility when refining leg alignment. Meanwhile, the SynergyPanel design and CAIR Cushion System are intended to support comfortable contact and freedom of movement for the horse.

The adjustable Y-girthing system and movable overgirth provide additional options for stabilising the saddle. Combined with the Luxe Leather finish and HART technology, these features make the Isabell Icon a premium option for riders who value precision, craftsmanship, and advanced saddle-fitting solutions.

Whether you are developing your dressage skills, refining collection and transitions, or preparing for competition, this saddle offers a combination of refined design and modern equestrian technology.

Care and Maintenance

1. Remove sweat, dust, and dirt after each ride using a soft cloth.
2. Clean the Luxe Leather with a suitable premium leather cleaner recommended for equestrian equipment.
3. Apply an appropriate leather dressing according to Bates’ care instructions to maintain softness, grip, and appearance.
4. Avoid excessive oiling and harsh cleaning products that could affect the leather’s finish.
5. Store the saddle on a properly shaped saddle rack in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
6. Inspect the billets, stitching, stirrup bars, girthing straps, and overgirth regularly.
7. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when adjusting the girthing system or interchangeable gullet components. The sealed CAIR panels should not be opened or inflated.
8. Arrange periodic professional inspections to assess the saddle’s structure, panel 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, shoulder freedom, panel contact, and overall saddle balance. The rider’s seat size and preferred riding position should also be considered.

Although Bates’ fitting system provides adjustment options, changing the gullet width alone does not guarantee a correct fit. The complete saddle should be assessed on the individual horse, both while standing and under a rider, to ensure appropriate contact and freedom of movement.