Zaldi Grand Prix Dressage 18" W

The Zaldi Grand Prix Dressage saddle is a top-of-the-line saddle from Zaldi, a Spanish saddlery with a long history of craftsmanship and a focus on incorporating modern technology. This saddle is a good representation of their approach, blending traditional leatherwork with innovative materials and design.

Key Features:

Dual-Density Tree: A defining feature of Zaldi's high-end saddles is their dual-density tree. The part of the tree that is in contact with the horse's back is designed with a specific foam that has some elasticity. This allows it to flex and spread the rider's weight over a larger surface area, aiming to reduce pressure points and give the horse more freedom of movement. The top side of the tree, for the rider, is also optimized for comfort, shock absorption, and promoting a close feel with the horse.

Specialized Tree Shape: The tree is not a one-size-fits-all model. Zaldi has a range of tree types designed for different disciplines, and the Grand Prix Dressage saddle is built on a tree specifically shaped for the deep seat and balance required in dressage.

Wool Panels: The saddle's panels are typically wool-flocked, which provides the traditional benefit of being able to be adjusted by a professional saddle fitter. This allows for fine-tuning the fit to the horse's back and accommodating muscle changes over time.

Customization: Zaldi offers a high degree of customization for both horse and rider. The saddle is available in a wide range of widths (from 28cm to 36cm), and riders can choose different leather types, colors, and even thigh block systems.

Narrow Twist and Deep Seat: The saddle is designed with a deep seat and a narrow twist, which helps to place the rider in a correct and secure position while maintaining a close-contact feel with the horse.

Horse Suitability:

The Zaldi Grand Prix Dressage saddle is well-suited for a variety of horses due to its customizable nature and the flexibility of its tree. However, it's particularly known to fit:

Horses with a wide range of widths: The saddle's availability in many different widths, from narrow to extra-wide, means it can be fitted to many different types of horses, from athletic, narrow-built Thoroughbreds to wider warmbloods.

Horses with well-defined back muscles: The dual-density tree is designed to work with the horse's back, spreading pressure evenly over the longissimus dorsi muscles.

Horses with a defined wither: The range of widths and ability to customize means it can provide good wither clearance for horses with prominent withers.