17 inch Thorowgood T8 Dressage with Surface Mounted Block MDS Black Adjustable

17″ Thorowgood T8 Dressage Saddle – Adjustable Black

The 17″ Thorowgood T8 Dressage with Surface Mounted Block MDS is a versatile option for riders looking for a supportive dressage saddle with useful adjustment options. Finished in black with a part-leather and synthetic construction, this used saddle offers a practical combination of comfort, stability and adjustability.

With its dressage-specific tree, wool-flocked panels and changeable gullet system, it can be a particularly useful choice for horses whose shape may change over time. The 17″ seat is suited to riders who prefer a relatively compact dressage saddle.

Saddle Details

What Makes the Thorowgood T8 Dressage a Good Choice?

The T8 is designed specifically with dressage riding in mind. Its surface-mounted thigh blocks provide additional support while still allowing the rider enough freedom around the knee.

The dressage tree helps create a balanced riding position, while the relatively low-profile panels bring the rider closer to the horse. This can be useful for riders who prefer a more connected feel when schooling or competing.

The saddle also has an open-headed tree, making the design suitable for a range of horse conformations. However, the saddle should always be assessed on the individual horse by a qualified saddle fitter rather than relying solely on the stated typical fit.

Adjustable Gullet System

One of the major advantages of this model is its interchangeable gullet system. The width can be changed by replacing the gullet bar, providing room to accommodate changes in the horse’s shape.

The available range for this saddle is:

Narrow Medium – X Wide – XX Wide

This adjustability can make the saddle an appealing option for owners whose horses change condition throughout the year.

Dressage Rider Support

The surface-mounted blocks are shaped to help position and support the rider’s thigh without excessively restricting knee movement. This makes the saddle suitable for riders who want additional security during flatwork while retaining freedom of movement.

The dual-flap construction and close-contact panel design also help create a more connected feel between horse and rider.

Girthing Options

The saddle provides several girthing positions, allowing the setup to be adapted according to the horse’s conformation and movement.

Choosing the correct girthing arrangement is important because it can influence saddle stability and balance. Your saddle fitter can advise which option is most appropriate for your horse.

Condition – Grade 3 Used Saddle

This saddle is classified as Grade 3, meaning it is a used saddle in very good overall condition with relatively minor signs of previous use.

The recorded condition includes:

• General signs of wear on the seat
• Light wear to the left flap
• Light wear to the right flap
• A scratch on the cantle, as shown in the photographs

We recommend carefully examining all photographs before purchasing so you can see the saddle’s current condition for yourself.

Saddle Fitting Advice

A good-looking saddle is not necessarily a good-fitting saddle. The horse’s back shape, wither profile, shoulder movement and rider requirements should all be considered before making a decision.

For buyers in the UK, Europe and the USA, we strongly recommend having the saddle assessed by a qualified saddle fitter before regular use.

The fitter can check:

• Tree width and overall balance
• Clearance around the withers
• Panel contact
• Gullet clearance
• Saddle position
• Girth alignment
• Rider balance
• Clearance behind the shoulder
• Whether flocking adjustments are required

Because this is an adjustable model, a qualified fitter can also determine whether the existing gullet width is appropriate or whether another option would provide a better fit.

Condition and Inspection

Before purchasing, compare the written condition description with the photographs provided on the product page. Used saddles naturally show signs of previous riding, and the photographs should be considered an important part of your buying decision.

Our aim is to give buyers as much information as possible so they can make an informed choice.

Warranty for Used Saddles

This second-hand saddle includes a 6-month soundness warranty, subject to the applicable warranty conditions.

The warranty is intended to cover the saddle’s soundness and does not cover issues resulting from accidental damage, neglect, theft, fire or inappropriate alterations.

Any adjustments or alterations should be carried out by a suitably qualified saddle professional. Buyers should also maintain the saddle appropriately throughout its use.

Please review the specific warranty terms provided with your purchase before making any alterations.

Buying from the UK, Europe or USA

We welcome customers looking for quality saddles from the UK, Europe and the USA.

For international buyers, importing a quality used saddle can sometimes provide access to models and sizes that may not be readily available in the local market.

International customers should check their country’s current import requirements, taxes, duties and restrictions before ordering.

We provide tracking information for overseas shipments where available, helping international buyers monitor their delivery from dispatch through to arrival.

UK Delivery

For UK customers, we aim to provide fast and reliable delivery. Delivery dates and available services are shown during checkout.

If you already have a saddle-fitting appointment booked, we recommend allowing sufficient time for the saddle to arrive before the appointment. This gives you some flexibility if the courier experiences an unexpected delay.

International Delivery

We also serve customers outside the UK, including buyers across Europe and the USA.

International delivery times can vary depending on the destination, customs processing and the courier service selected. Tracking details are provided where available so you can follow the progress of your order.

Please remember that international customers are responsible for checking local import rules and any applicable customs charges.

Our View

The 17″ Thorowgood T8 Dressage is a practical choice for riders who want a dedicated dressage saddle with useful adjustment features.

The combination of a dressage-specific tree, surface-mounted blocks, wool-flocked panels and interchangeable gullet system makes it an interesting option for schooling and dressage work. Its adjustable design may also be useful for horses whose body shape changes over time.

As with any used saddle, professional fitting is essential. The specifications can help narrow down your options, but the final decision should be based on how the saddle actually fits your horse and rider.

What’s Included?

With this used saddle, buyers receive:

• Saddle inspection information
• 6-month soundness warranty, subject to terms
• Adjustable gullet system
• International tracking where available
• Customer support
• Option to purchase suitable saddle accessories

Important Buying Advice

Please remember that saddle fit is individual. A saddle described as suitable for a particular wither or back profile is only a general guide and does not guarantee compatibility with your horse.

If you’re buying from the UK, Europe or the USA, we recommend arranging a professional saddle fitting before putting the saddle into regular work.

Looking for a quality used dressage saddle? This 17″ Thorowgood T8 offers a useful combination of adjustability, rider support and practical everyday construction, making it worth considering for riders seeking a pre-owned dressage saddle at a more accessible price.