Mare, Steps High & Saddle
Nov 2, 2007 18:33:16 GMT -5
Post by Mollyflower on Nov 2, 2007 18:33:16 GMT -5
This saddle is great!
Perhaps it's all in the expectation of what the saddle "should" look like, but I am very happy with mine. I love its authentic look and was thrilled when I first saw a picture of it on the horse. Where else can you get such a wonderful reproduction of a Nez Perce saddle? At first I was disappointed that the frame wasn't made of wood, but a plastic frame for a toy is more practical.
The round shields on the saddle are supposed to be made of leather, light enough for the horse to carry without problems. I think the faux leather, AG shields are pretty realistic looking. The design is stamped on, not painted, but I think they look great.
The fringe is decorative and practical. Rain is carried off down the fringe so the garment or saddle doesn't become saturated. I got my Steps High off eBay without the fringe saddle "blanket." I didn't realize until I ordered the saddle from AG that the fringed blanket didn't come with it. I finally got one at replacement parts at AG for about $8.
The faux sheepskin is a perfect pad between the fringed saddle blanket and the hard saddle. I'm not sure about the authenticity of the little pillow, but anyone perched on such a saddle with a wooden frame would be glad to have it.
I give the saddle a high A. If I get another Steps High, I'll be sure to get a second saddle.
Perhaps it's all in the expectation of what the saddle "should" look like, but I am very happy with mine. I love its authentic look and was thrilled when I first saw a picture of it on the horse. Where else can you get such a wonderful reproduction of a Nez Perce saddle? At first I was disappointed that the frame wasn't made of wood, but a plastic frame for a toy is more practical.
The round shields on the saddle are supposed to be made of leather, light enough for the horse to carry without problems. I think the faux leather, AG shields are pretty realistic looking. The design is stamped on, not painted, but I think they look great.
The fringe is decorative and practical. Rain is carried off down the fringe so the garment or saddle doesn't become saturated. I got my Steps High off eBay without the fringe saddle "blanket." I didn't realize until I ordered the saddle from AG that the fringed blanket didn't come with it. I finally got one at replacement parts at AG for about $8.
The faux sheepskin is a perfect pad between the fringed saddle blanket and the hard saddle. I'm not sure about the authenticity of the little pillow, but anyone perched on such a saddle with a wooden frame would be glad to have it.
I give the saddle a high A. If I get another Steps High, I'll be sure to get a second saddle.