Henri de Rivel Cahill Covered Close Contact IGP Saddle

Product Overview

The Henri de Rivel Cahill Covered Close Contact IGP Saddle is an English jumping saddle designed for show jumping, eventing, and everyday schooling. Combining a forward-cut flap, a moderately deep seat, and a narrow twist, this saddle is designed to help riders maintain a balanced, secure position while encouraging close contact with the horse.

Crafted from smooth, grippy covered leather, the HDR Cahill features high-density foam panels designed to provide cushioning for the horse’s back. Its removable pencil knee and thigh blocks allow riders to customise leg support, while the molded knee pads add structure and a distinctive appearance.

The saddle also incorporates the Interchangeable Gullet Plate (IGP) System, allowing compatible gullet plates to be changed to adjust gullet width. Reinforced billet straps and distinctive signature stitching complete the design, making the Cahill a practical option for riders seeking a stylish jumping saddle with adaptable fitting features.

Key Features

• Close Contact Design: Supports communication between horse and rider during jumping and flatwork.
• Premium Covered Leather: Features a smooth, grippy leather exterior for comfort and a refined appearance.
• Moderately Deep Seat: Helps riders maintain a secure and balanced position during jumping and hacking.
• Narrow Twist: Designed to support a comfortable leg position and close contact with the horse.
• Extra-Forward Flap: Accommodates the shorter stirrup length commonly used for jumping and eventing.
• High-Density Foam Panels: Provide cushioning between the saddle and the horse’s back.
• Removable Pencil Knee and Thigh Blocks: Allow riders to adjust leg support according to their individual preferences.
• Molded Knee Pads: Add structured support and distinctive styling.
• IGP Interchangeable Gullet System: Allows gullet-width adjustments using compatible interchangeable plates.
• Reinforced Billet Straps: Designed to improve durability in areas exposed to regular girthing stress.
• Signature Stitching and Coloured Trim: Add an attractive finishing detail to the saddle.
• Versatile Jumping Application: Suitable for show jumping, eventing, schooling, and recreational hacking.

Product Specifications

Why Choose the HDR Cahill Covered Close Contact Saddle?

The Henri de Rivel Cahill combines practical jumping features with traditional equestrian styling. Its moderately deep seat and forward flap support a balanced riding position, while the narrow twist is designed to provide a close feel and comfortable leg alignment.

The removable knee and thigh blocks give riders flexibility when adjusting support for their preferred riding position. High-density foam panels provide cushioning, and the covered leather exterior offers additional grip during schooling and competition preparation.

The IGP system is another useful feature, allowing gullet width to be adjusted with compatible plates when professionally fitted. Together with reinforced billets and distinctive signature stitching, these features make the Cahill an appealing choice for riders who want a functional and attractive jumping saddle.

Care and Maintenance

1. Wipe away dust, dirt, and sweat after each ride with 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 location.
4. Inspect the billet straps, stitching, stirrup bars, girth attachments, and other fittings regularly.
5. Check the removable knee and thigh blocks to ensure they remain secure and in good condition.
6. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when changing IGP gullet plates.
7. Arrange periodic professional inspections to assess the saddle’s structure, panels, and overall condition.

Saddle-Fitting Advice

Before purchasing, ask a qualified saddle fitter to 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 leg position should also be considered.

Although the IGP system allows gullet-width adjustments, changing the gullet plate alone does not guarantee a correct fit. The horse’s individual conformation and the saddle’s complete fit should be assessed both while standing and under a rider.