Details about 17.5" Semiflex Saddle
17.5" GP saddle! In great condition. Has removable knee blocks so can be adjusted to suit individual rider. Can be adjusted currently 9" d ring to d ring How semiflex saddles work: The most important requirement of the saddle is to provide security for the rider and optimum comfort for the horse. To achieve this the saddle must move with the horse and allow the rider to feel and connect with that movement. Most saddles produced today are heavily focussed on the former, being fitted on to a rigid tree which cannot flex as the horse moves. This will ultimately lead to discomfort for the horse. At best the horse will become unresponsive, at worst, tissue damage will occur. If the saddle cannot flex with the horses spine it will restrict the normal curvature and movement of the spine, therefore the horse will not be able to maintain natural balance and the rider will feel unconnected. This can lead to the horse's musculo-skeletal system and can cause extreme discomfort. As the horse develops and grows stronger he will change shape dramatically. It is imperative the saddle can allow this, If it cannot and it becomes too narrow the solid points of the tree will bear down on the withers under the weight of the rider, causing great discomfort and distorted muscualature. Blood flow will be restricted and tissue damage can occur.