Harry Dabbs Avant GP 17.5" MW (DJ)

The Harry Dabbs Avant is a popular general purpose (GP) saddle that is part of the brand's diverse range. As a GP saddle, it is designed to be versatile, suitable for a variety of disciplines including flatwork, hacking, and some jumping.

Key Features:

Wool-Flocked Panels: Like many Harry Dabbs saddles, the Avant features wool-flocked panels, which offer a great advantage. They can be easily adjusted by a professional saddle fitter to create a custom fit for the horse, and can be re-flocked as the horse's shape changes.

Semi-Deep Seat: The saddle provides a semi-deep seat, which gives the rider a sense of security without being restrictive. This is a good middle ground for riders who want support for flatwork but also the freedom for jumping.

Performance Panels: The Avant is often built with the Harry Dabbs "Performance Panel." This innovative design is engineered to leave the horse's back sooner, specifically to free up the lumbar region and the trapezius muscle, which aids in forelimb movement.

Narrow Twist: Many riders appreciate the narrow twist on the Avant, as it can provide a more comfortable and closer-contact feel.

Wide Gullet Channel: The saddle is designed with a wide gullet channel to provide excellent spinal clearance for the horse.

Horse Suitability:

The Harry Dabbs Avant GP is built on the "Avant" tree, which is one of the brand's most popular trees. This tree is specifically designed to fit a particular type of horse conformation. It is most often recommended for:

Horses with a wither: The tree is designed to provide excellent wither clearance.

Horses with well-defined shoulders: The Performance Panel is particularly effective for horses with big, well-developed shoulders, as it helps to prevent interference and allows for a greater stride length.

Horses with backs that slope gradually upwards: The Avant tree is built to accommodate a back that has a gradual upward slope towards the last rib.

Off-the-track Thoroughbreds: The Avant tree is especially popular and well-suited for fitting off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) and other similar athletic, high-withered horses.

It's important to remember that every horse is an individual, and a saddle fitter should always be consulted to ensure a perfect fit. However, the design of the Avant tree and the Performance Panel makes this saddle a strong candidate for horses that fit the above description.

Important Note: Saddle fitting is crucial. While a saddle model may be designed for a specific horse type, it's always recommended to have a professional saddle fitter assess both the horse and rider to ensure the best possible fit.