Description

Fairfax Classic Open Seat Dressage Saddle – 17″ (Black)

Grade 4 | Pre-Owned | Serial No. 322059 | Saddle ID: S12088

Bench Inspection & Fitter’s Rating

Every pre-owned saddle that comes through Best Horse Saddle Shop is thoroughly evaluated by our SMS Qualified Saddlers before listing. We verify tree alignment, leather integrity, stitching, and flocking symmetry so you can buy with total confidence.

• Condition Grade: Grade 4 (Good Pre-Owned Condition)

• Bench Summary: Structural condition is outstanding. The SimaTree frame, gullet mechanism, and billets are 100% sound.

• Wear & Cosmetic Details: Moderate surface wear on the left flap and moderate wear with minor surface scratches on the right flap from stirrup leathers (detailed in photographs). The double-oiled leather remains soft, supple, and well-maintained.

What Makes The Fairfax Classic Open Seat Special?

Crafted especially for riders who prefer a bit more room and freedom in the saddle, the Fairfax Classic Open Seat Dressage Saddle delivers traditional dual-flap styling paired with modern performance technology.

Unlike restrictive, ultra-deep dressage seats, this model features an open, flatter seat profile that supports a natural, relaxed position without locking you into place. Built using luxurious double-oiled English butt leather with super-soft full-grain hide on the seat, it provides instant comfort from day one.

Key Features & Specifications

• Discipline: Dressage

• Seat Size: 17″ (Open & flatter seat profile)

• Flap Type: Traditional Dual Flap (Flap Length: 16.5″)

• Colour: Black

• Material: Luxurious double-oiled English butt leather & full-grain hide seat

• Tree Type: SIMA Tree (Takes R-Bar Gullet System)

• Adjustability Range: Narrow/Medium to Extra-Extra Wide (NM to XW/XXW)

• Currently Fitted With: Medium-Wide (MW) R-Bar

• Panel Type: 100% British Wool Flocking with Prolite lining

• Knee Support: Fixed stitched-on knee block with deep cushioning and ghost stitching

• Wither Profile: Standard Wither / Average Back Profile

Why Our Fitters Love This Model

• Open, Roomy Seat Balance: Perfect for riders who feel restricted in deep seats. The flatter profile gives you space to move naturally and fine-tune your aids without feeling trapped.

• Pro-Level Comfort: Features soft cushioning with ghost stitching across the knee pads, allowing the knee block to accommodate different leg lengths smoothly.

• Prolite-Lined Wool Panels: Combines natural wool flocking with shock-absorbing Prolite lining, giving your horse relief across the back while letting your fitter micro-adjust the fit.

• Easy Width Changes: Swap out SimaTree R-Bar gullet bars at your barn to adjust tree width as your horse develops muscle or changes condition through the seasons.

Trial & Shipping Options (UK & USA)

UK Mainland 5-Day Trial

1. Add the saddle to your basket and complete checkout.

2. Select your preferred delivery date at checkout—we recommend receiving it 2 working days before your fitter’s visit to account for courier transit.

3. Your 5-day trial begins the day the courier delivers the saddle to your door.

4. If it fits—great! If not, return it within the trial window in accordance with our UK trial policy.

USA 5-Day Trial & Fast Tracked Shipping

1. Order directly through our site with flat-rate express international shipping via DHL/FedEx.

2. Your 5-Day USA Trial begins the moment the courier delivers the saddle to your doorstep.

3. Schedule your fitter during your 5-day window. If the saddle isn’t the right match, contact our support team to start an easy return.

4. Even with round-trip express shipping, US buyers regularly save hundreds importing premium pre-owned UK saddles directly from our shop!

What’s Included

• Certified Saddle Inspection Report (Bench check for tree, flocking, and safety)

• 6-Month Pre-Owned Soundness Warranty

• 5-Day UK & USA Trial Options

• Guaranteed 9-Month Buy-Back Option (UK Mainland clients)

• Free Guide: “Secrets to Selling Your Saddle” eBook

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Open Seat compare to the standard Fairfax Classic Dressage?

The Open Seat model has a flatter, less aggressive seat slope and is slightly less ‘forward’ in alignment. This allows a more relaxed dressage position and is ideal if you dislike feeling squeezed by a high cantle.

What horse profile does this saddle fit best?

This model is built on Fairfax’s Standard Wither profile and suits horses with average withers and a standard back shape.

Which gullet bar does this saddle take?

It takes official SimaTree R-Bars (long bar legs) and adjusts from Narrow/Medium up to XX-Wide. It is currently fitted with a Medium-Wide (MW) bar.