Tree-less saddles

[EvojeepGal]

Anyone used one or whats the verdict on them? They're a new addition to the tack world since my absence...
How do they feel compared to our regular saddles etc?

[Welsh Girl]

Don't like them I'm afraid as i don't understand how a riders weight can be evenly distributed without some kind of "frame".

[Teegee]

There are a few thoughts on an old thread:
http://www.stabletostable.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1209&highlight=treeless+saddles

[Parsnip]

on a friend's horse. She loves it but I'm not convinced. The sitting part is fine but I felt that my leg was too far back and the stirrup leathers feel like they stick in.
I don't really like the look of them either I have to say!

[EvojeepGal]

Hmmm my sceptical doubts seem to be correct so. Don't think id be keen on one as the link above suggests, I think id prefer the support of a tree on my horses spine

[wombles]

I dont like them

[moongirl]

I have a 'Freefrom' treeless saddle and I love it - it is so comfy. And as far as I can tell Mani finds it comfy too.

http://www.goldfinch-equestrian.co.uk/freeformsaddles.html

They address the questions of whether it presses on the horses spine without a gullet, and whether it distributes the weight evenly in the 'FAQ' section.

You do have to have a special numnah when you use them.

Also as they are all different not all will suit. I first tried the Heather Moffet treeless and really didn't like it - it seemed to tip me forward.

I would also be really wary of some of the cheap ones you can find on ebay.

I think it is like anything - some people love them others hate them - really you have to try it yourself to find out.