Description

Bates All Purpose Opulence+ Saddle – 17″ (Black)

Grade 4 | Pre-Owned | Serial No. B21050391-43+ | Saddle ID: S12681

Bench Inspection & Fitter’s Rating

Every pre-owned saddle at Best Horse Saddle Shop undergoes a thorough 24-point bench check by our SMS Qualified Saddlers prior to listing. We evaluate tree soundness, CAIR panel cushion integrity, stitching, and billet security so you can shop with complete peace of mind.

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

• Fitter’s Notes: Structural condition is excellent. The ElastiFlex tree, CAIR cushion system, and billet straps are fully sound.

• Cosmetic Details: Shows light, normal riding wear on both flaps from stirrup leather contact and general signs of light seat wear (detailed in photos). The Opulence leather is soft, supple, and very well-maintained.

What Makes The Bates All Purpose Opulence+ Special?

Widely recognized as a pioneer in high-performance general purpose saddlery, the Bates All Purpose Opulence+ combines everyday versatility with premium luxury leather.

Crafted with Bates’ ultra-soft Opulence leather and padded knee inserts, this saddle delivers instantaneous comfort, security, and a perfectly balanced deep seat. Whether you are enjoying leisure trail rides, practicing flatwork, or popping over fences, its ergonomic design ensures seamless stability for the rider while providing total freedom of movement for your horse.

Key Features & Specifications

• Discipline: General Purpose / All Purpose (GP)

• Seat Size: 17″ (Deep, balanced seat)

• Colour: Black

• Flap Design: Traditional Dual Flap (Flap Length: 15.25″)

• Material: Ultra-Soft Opulence Leather

• Tree Type: Lifetime-Guaranteed Flexible ElastiFlex Tree

• Adjustability Range: EASY-CHANGE Gullet System (Narrow to Extra-Wide)

• Currently Fitted With: Wide (W) Gullet Bar

• Panel Type: CAIR Cushion System (Compatible with EASY-CHANGE Risers)

• Knee Support: Padded knee inserts with repositionable Velcro knee blocks

• Stirrup Bar: Ergonomic Stirrup Bar (reduces bulk under thigh)

• Target Wither Profile: Standard Wither / Average Back Profile

Why Our Fitters Love This Model

• Full HART / Easy-Change Versatility: Built with the EASY-CHANGE Fit Solution and CAIR air panels, allowing an SMS Fitter—or you at home—to swap gullet bars and insert risers as your horse’s topline changes.

• Opulence Leather Comfort: Features luxurious, grip-enhanced Opulence leather on the seat and pads for an extra-comfortable, secure feel in any weather.

• Custom Leg Alignment: Repositionable Velcro knee blocks let you adjust leg support to match your leg length and riding style across flatwork and jumping.

• Pressure-Free Back Movement: CAIR cushion air panels adapt fluidly to working back muscles, absorbing shock and eliminating pressure points.

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 scheduling it 2 working days before your fitter’s visit to account for courier transit.

3. Your 5-day trial starts the day the courier delivers the saddle.

4. If it fits—fantastic! If not, return it within the 5-day trial window under our standard 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 saddle arrives at 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. US buyers regularly save hundreds importing premium pre-owned English saddles directly from our shop!

What’s Included

• Certified Saddle Inspection Report (Bench check for tree, CAIR panels, 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

Care & Maintenance Guidelines

To maintain the softness and protective coating of your Bates Opulence leather:

• Hydrate & Condition: Use Bates Leather Cream regularly to replenish natural moisture, preserving softness and preventing drying.

• Protect & Seal: Follow up with Bates Leather Balsam to create a protective barrier against water, sweat, and surface wear.

• Daily Wipe Down: Wipe off dust and moisture with a damp cloth after every ride before applying leather care products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What horse profile does this saddle fit best?

It is designed for horses with a Standard Wither and average back profile. The CAIR panels and EASY-CHANGE Riser system allow easy balance adjustments for slight asymmetrical or changing muscle structures.

Can I change the gullet width myself?

Yes! The EASY-CHANGE Gullet System allows you to quickly swap gullet headplates (from Narrow to Extra-Wide) right in your tack room.

How do CAIR panels work?

Instead of traditional flocking, CAIR panels utilize air bags that continuously fluidly adapt to your horse’s moving back, distributing rider weight evenly and preventing pressure points.