Hi Debra,

I am writing to say thank you.  I received my ovation saddle back after the customization of the stirrup fender length and it is perfect.   I could not be more pleased.  My mare, Piper, and I went on a 5 hour trail ride this week for the first time in over four years.  Due to knee pain and a sore behind with my old saddle, I have been keeping my rides to under 2 hours.  For the first time, I had no knee pain and Piper  was very willing to go at all gaits over  rough terrain.   As if comfort and fit for my horse isn’t enough, the saddle is also beautiful.  Also, the felt saddle pad you recommended is perfect.  The pad is exactly what I needed for that saddle. 
I attended a three day horsemanship clinic with my husband this past weekend.  Although my mare was not there  I had the opportunity to tell several people who spoke of having difficulty getting a saddle to fit their horse about your company. 
It was a pleasure doing business with you.  Your products are excellent quality and your customer service is wonderful.  Keep up the good work.

Thanks again.
Kathleen
 
 

1/28/2008

I love my new Rose Trail saddle, AND so does my MFT!  I knew the second it went on her back that it was a good fit. She doesn't mind being saddled, it doesn't slip when mounting, and she is moving better. I'm also happier in the secure deep centered seat and feel my riding has improved. 
I'm sorry that it took 3 years and two other saddles to get to this one. If you have a gaited horse please try Crestridge first.
The service, advise, comfort, and quality craftmanship has made it a true bargain!

Thank you so much,
 Kathy
 
 

January 29, 2008

Debra, 

I am so excited about this saddle I am not sure where to start to thank you.  I bought this from you back in November but wasn’t able to test ride in it until recently thanks to my mare injuring herself. 

What a great fit!  My little 14.3hh Moriesian has a draft size back and after working with you sending pictures and measurements back and forth we finally decided to go with your draft tree.  Great choice, since she’s been out of work with the injury so she’s chunked up a bit and the saddle fits beautifully now with just a wool blanket.  There’s plenty of potential to use a saddle pad when she starts to get back into shape. 

Even with a plain wool blanket the saddle fits well, doesn’t pinch or ride high and has nice even weight distribution.  The best part is it doesn’t roll on her mutton withered table top back!!!!  I couldn’t believe it, I don’t even need to do a V-cinch, just regular cinching and I don’t get a roll.  I don’t end up having to cinch it up tight either which my mare is very thankful for.  I haven’t had issues with it sliding forward yet since we’re not doing heavy work but incase it does you have a great crupper attachment!  It will probably come in handy when we start hill work or long rides. 

The saddle is great for me too!  I’m 6’2” and there are more than enough adjustments for my long legs with loads of room to spare in each direction.  The seat is very secure and puts me in the correct “dressage” position instead of the chair seat I usually get with saddles.   I really enjoy the hybrid between leather and synthetic materials.  Leather in all the places you want it yet synthetic to help keep the weight down.  Brilliant!

What a great saddle and thank you so much for your time to make sure I got one that fit just right.  I am so thrilled with it I show everyone that comes over and am proud to tell them where I got it.  Great job!

Lindsay
Avon, NY
 
 

Oct 9, 2007

Hi Debra,

            I made it to Mike and Vickies last weekend to try the saddle and pad I bought from you on my horse. It is awesome!!!! My horse responded a lot better than she has been and I was a lot more comfortable on her back. Vickie and Mike checked the fit for me and said it was good. Thank you so much for taking the time to make sure I had the right equipment that matched my horse! I will tell anyone who asks me about saddles that they need to look at your products. My saddle and pad are great and I would not hesitate to buy more items from you as the need arises. Thank you again, Robert.
 
 
 
 

Robert Rose, MS
 
 

September 27, 2007

Hi Debra,

  About a year ago I purchased a Crest Ridge Crusade Lite Sport for my Tennessee Walker Jake.  I was really having some problems with him. He was miserable! Ears pinned, feet stomping, tense, my gait was gone, something was wrong and I needed to fix it! After having talked with some other gaited horse owners I learned that my saddle was the problem. They told me I need a saddle specially made for high withered horses!

So, I went in hunt of a "gaited horse saddle" After much research and plenty of talking with saddle makers I found Tanya at Crest Ridge! She was wonderful. She answered ALL my questions and answered questions I didn't even  know I had! Tanya was great from the fitting process to the purchasing process! Wow, what an awesome decision I made! Jake, my horse, and of course myself, are as happy as we could be. My horse is calm, happy, attentive to me on the trail and is gaiting like there is no tomorrow! Who would think that a saddle could make such a difference?

Well, let me answer that question for you....
There are 7 Tennessee Walkers on my property. Only one owned personally by me. All the horse owner's informed me that I was stupid to spend that much money on a saddle...A new horse would be a smarter purchase! Well, there are still 7 TWH horses on my property and everyone of them are now ridden in a Crest Ridge saddle! The difference this saddle made for my horse and I was so Impressive that one by one they all went out and purchased one! Thank You Crest Ridge Saddlery!

Carrie Swadling and
Jake, Blaze, Fire, Thunder, Rocco, Dolly and Jedi
 
 

September 11, 2007
 
 

Dear Debra,

I’ve been intending to write you a letter of thanks, and today I finally found the time to do it.  In late June I bought a Crusade Elite saddle, with a SupraCor seat, from you.  Not only is it a perfect fit for my horse, but it is extremely comfortable for an old broad like me!  I absolutely love the saddle, Debra, and I feel great knowing that it fits Hank, my 7-year-old gelding, so well.  The white hairs he’d received from his previous (ill-fitting) saddle have even begun to disappear.  I also love my new Trail Boz 4-point breast collar, which keeps the saddle in place—even when going up the many steep trails where I ride.  I’m really enjoying the Trail Boz endurance stirrups, too, which are wide enough to accommodate my winter boots, and are very easy on my old, arthritic joints.  I ESPECIALLY love the Trail Boz SupraCinch!  It really helps keep the saddle from slipping during mounting and dismounting.  What a wonderful innovation! 

What I most want to thank you for, however, is the absolutely AMAZING personal service you gave me—before, during, and after I purchased the saddle and accessories from your company.  Your knowledge of horses and saddle-fitting is incredible, Debra!  You really know your stuff.  I still can’t believe you picked up on the fact that my horse has a hunter’s bump, without my even mentioning it!  After that, you made it your personal goal to make sure that Hank would have a saddle that wouldn’t exacerbate this problem.  You even went so far as to loan me your own personal saddle pad (mailing it to me without even a deposit) to let me try it out.  Your telephone calls throughout the entire buying process were helpful, too.  Your explanations, questions to me, observations about the photos I’d sent, and anecdotal stories all contributed to a VERY satisfied customer.

Debra, you just went way above and beyond the call of duty!  That’s extremely refreshing in this day and age, when incompetence and indifference are so common in the business world.  I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the fact that you didn’t just want to sell me a saddle.  You wanted to sell me a saddle that REALLY FITS my horse and me.  And you did.  Thank you!
 
 

Sincerely,

Marilyn Gibson

Stewartstown, PA
 
 

Hi Debra and everyone at CRS!

I love my Crest Ridge Black Traveler Showman!  My Spotted Saddle Horse gelding, Seminole, looks awesome in this saddle and really attracts the attention!.   I also use this saddle for everyday trail riding, too.  I change to your plain black trail tapaderos and tie up the white saddle laces (to keep them clean from mud and dirt).  Thanks for an awesome saddle! 

Debra L. Meyer
East Canton, OH
 
 

 
 
 
 
 

Hi Debra,  Sending you a picture of one of our paints we just sold. Used your saddle for the picture, everyone wanted to buy our saddle and where did we get it. So you might be getting some calls. We love the saddle, they are so comfortable and fit the horses perfect. We have two youg buckskins coming up and will get black saddles for them in the future. Forward your web site for the the comments on the saddles.  Thanks Carol & Ed

 
 
 

Hello Debra,

I was going through my old deleted emails and came across yours.  I absolutely love my crusade lite saddle and so does my horse.  As I have told you before, I have spent thousands of dollars on  at least 8 saddles before I found Crestridge Saddlery and got one that fits.  I even had one made specially for my Rocky, but it did not fit and slipped constantly making it very dangerous for me to ride in.  I love this saddle so much that I am going to purchase another one for the new Kentucky Mountain horse that I just bought.  He is only 4 years old and I'm not sure what size tree to get yet.  I am going to try the extra wide one that I have and see how that fits, but I suspect that I will only need a wide size.  Still working on that.............

Thanks Debra,
Marilyn Zorn
 
 

I am  really exited about your saddles.  A Blizzard Rose  (see photo on Gallery Page)  "Blizzy" rides great in this Reg. Guffey.  She is 4 year old and is a little narrower than most of my PINTABIANS  I also use this  saddle on most of my young  horses that I start as many of the 2 or 3   year olds do not have their width yet.  And of course some horses like Blizzy well probabbly use this saddle for the rest of her life. 
 Love your saddles  and Pintabian Horses, 

Marlene  holtepintabians

I am so exited.  I have tried many saddles on this PINTABIAN.  She is of course over 99% Arabian with Tobiano spots.  I was riding her in a reg. guffey last year some   but she widened out this year.  Her saddles tend to go forward  on her when ever we canter so the cinch would be up under her elbows and I would feel like I was going to go over her head.  I finally got this CRUSADE LITE with a mule tree and every thing  is going great!!  Libby  does not have much  for withers to hold the saddle back and has a flat back  from front to back.  We can now canter collected without the saddle going forward and being uncomfortable for me or Libby.  I am almost as exited about Crest Ridge saddles as I am about my Pintabian Horses!!! 
I also bought breeching for when we trail ride up and down hills   for extra protection  just in case my saddle is a little too loose and might decide to go forward  going down some steep ditches. 

Marlene --  holtepintabians
 
 

Dear Debra,

Here are the saddle and towel pictures we took yesterday.  I must say that regardless of anything you think about the pictures, the difference in Herbie was astonishing.  He took five steps and settled down to gaiting far better than he has since I bought him.  And he stayed that way for two and a half hours of trail riding as well in deep snow with three other horses.  HE is happy with the saddle and it was as obvious to my companions as it was to me.

Not only that, but there was about an hour's unsaddled break between the indoor test ride and resaddling him for the trail ride.  Ordinarily, the little beastie would greet his saddle with pinned ears.  When he saw the Sinclair coming at him again his ears were up and he made no protest about being cinched up either.  That spoke volumes.

I am comfortable in it as long as I sit up properly.  The edge of the seat I can feel behind my thigh, but I don't think this is going to be a major problem.  It's going to make me sit better!  Stirrup length is still in flux, but I'm close.  I have tried many saddles over the years and I know when it's good within minutes.  The Sinclair felt like "old home week" in seconds.

Herbie was about as dirty as he gets so the towel marks aren't that clear.  But they do closely resemble the ones in your own photos and your description to me over the phone of what you were looking for.

Unless you have reservations, I'm content to keep this Sinclair.  I wouldn't have taken it out for 2 1\2 hours on trail unless I was certain.

Thank you for all your help and your considerable expertise.   You will definitely be getting recommendations from me to my friends who are looking for saddles.  Everyone at my barn who saw the saddle asked about it and thought it handsome and comfy looking. 

Sharon 

Debra, Thank you, thank you, thank you... I really enjoy my new Crest Ridge Wild Rose Trail Guffey Elite saddle and the Crest Ridge 1/2 inch saddle pad. With over 150 hours on trail & arena since I got them last September I JUST LOVE THE RIDE! Lil Joe's loves it and I have you to thank for a perfect fit the first time! I know I benefited from your expertise and Jeri's experience with Chance but I never thought it would be an out-of-the-box fit the first time. With 'Lil Joe's almost flat back and withers (what withers) we are lucky to have found Crest Ridge Saddlery for both of our horses. Many have asked where I got the saddle and gaited or not appreciate the design, craftsmanship and the 'V' rigging. More and more gaited horses and mules are popping up here in Southern California and we love to 'soap box' your products!!!! Thanks again for everything you have done for us and our horses. If anyone here in Southern California wants to see what you guys can do have them look us up at ranchhand@eticorral35.org and we will sing your praises. I have attached some pictures of 'Lil Joe and I for you web site and your records. I hear that Jeri maybe coming out to ride your trails again, she really loved t last time!!!! Bob & Jeri  / 'Lil Joe & Chance Glendora, California ranchhand@eticorral35.org

After almost giving up on find a saddle to fit me and my horse, I found Crest Ridge Saddlery. I purchased a $1200 Crusade direct from Crest Ridge. Saddle fit is not a "one size fits all" or even a "ten sizes fits all" proposition. It is a subtle and complicated art form that takes time and care. It took me three months of research to find this saddle. I've learned a lot and it was worth the effort. 

My horse is small and short backed and I am 6 ft. tall. I needed a saddle with a shorter tree and yet with a larger seat. Try and find this anywhere else. This saddle was essentially my only choice. But, it was also good looking, well constructed, and well appointed.

The construction of my Crusade Elite and quality is excellent. How can they sell it so inexpensively?

 Debra at Crest Ridge is the "energizer bunny" of saddle fit. She keeps going and going, and going until you have a saddle that really fits your horse and you have the right equipment to go with it. Be prepared to send pictures of your horse, and to work with Debra until you get it right. Even months in to owning this saddle, Debra is still working with me on little things I have discovered over time that I need help with. If you buy a Crest Ridge Saddle and don't like something about it, don't complain to the world, talk to Debra. She will go out of her way to make it right.

Seth in Terlingua

Hi Folks!

I just purchased a BIG, BLACK AND BEAUTIFULL Tennessee walking horse. He came with a saddle, not just any saddle but a Crest Ridge Ardent Series. I did know what I was getting until I rode in it. That saddle sealed the deal! I have never ridden in such a comfy saddle, it was amazing.

Now we fight over who gets to ride Pete. Not so much over the horse but over the saddle.

I am now searching for another one.  Please let me know where I can purchase another Crest Ridge in B.C. Please hurry,  I won't ride that other horse again untill I find one.

Thanks.
Dyan Lover 

Hi,

I bought a Crusade Saddle with a wide tree.  It was  for my very hard to fit Haflinger.  I bought this saddle after buying 2 other "Haflinger" saddles and neither fit and sored .him badly.

I do not how to tell you happy I am with the saddle.  Perfect fit, and the saddle is very comfortable to ride in.  It doesn't slide or roll on him like the other saddles I tried , and he is a different horse with this saddle... He show no sore spots and I rode him for 5 hours today and we could have just kept going.  He was a happy camper and so was I.  Thanks for your excellent review of my photos and measurements and getting the perfect tree, first try, for my horse.

Thank you for such an excellent, quality saddle at a great  price!

Sincerely,
Mark Schmidt
Taneytown, MD.

Dear Debra,

Thank you for all your help with getting my new saddle to fit correctly.  I just came home from a four day ride and as you suggested moved my saddle up about 1 1/2 inch, using your breast collar to keep it in place.   The rides were about six hours each day and there were no dry spots under the saddle.

I had been having some pain in my knees but was pain-free the entire time.  I am more than willing to put up with the heavier than I like weight of the saddle in order to feel good, but most importantly, to have my horse feel good.

I'm saving my money to buy your saddle bags and then I should be complete.  A few people in our riding club were admiring the saddle so I wouldn't be surprised if you hear from more Pennsylvania riders.

Hope your back is feeling better.

Thanks again and best regards,

Judy Silver

Hello! 

I just wanted to let you know I rode in my Buena Vista (Sinclair Saddle) and it was wonderful!! My TN Walker gelding General did great in it I did the white towel test and it was just how it was supposed to be. my guy had a habit of pacing once in awhile I have now ridden him 3 times and not once did he pace. This saddle is the best investment I have ever made! When my filly is 3 next year I'm going to be contacting you with pictures and measurements to get a saddle for her too. Thank you so much for all your patience with my thousands of questions you guys are great! I will soon get a picture of General in his Buena Vista and I'll send it to you. Again Thank You.

Tammy Rhodes

Hi, Tanya,

Well, the saddle fits my horse!  I did the white towel test and it was evenly dirty, but clean over his backbone.  I was concerned because I'm no lightweight, and l know the saddle l'd been using was too low on his withers and backbone.  This saddle gives him plenty of clearance.  So, l'm keeping it! 

Thank you 
Pat Gorg 

Hi Debra,

I can't thank you enough for all the time you spent helping me find a saddle to fit my Spotted Saddle Horse gelding "Mac's Firecracker".  My horse is VERY difficult to fit as he is round, mutton withered, short-backed and downhill.  I couldn't believe that you would be able to fit my horse based on a few photos and a wither tracing.  Your money back guarantee made this an easy decision for me to try.  The saddle arrived in one week and was packaged well.  I was very impressed with the quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.  I can tell it was made with a great deal of precision and care.  I am a really tough customer in terms of saddle shopping and have NEVER received this level of service from any company. 

My horse moves so freely in this saddle and his gait is so smooth, it's almost like riding on a cloud!  I also find this saddle very comfy to ride in and I feel very secure.  I would recommend to anyone looking for a quality, well made saddle that actually FITS to visit your website and send in their photos.  The white towel test really shows how the saddle is fitting and I could tell by my horses attitude that he was happy.  I also had my equine chiropractor check the fit and he gave it a 10+ on a scale of 1-10.  He couldn't believe I purchased this over the Internet and on the first try, the saddle fit.  He is going to start recommending Crest Ridge Saddlery to his other clients. 

Debra, many thanks for such outstanding service!  I have recommended Crest Ridge Saddlery to all of my friends as I feel I got a wonderful saddle for a really good price.  I know I will have many happy years of riding in my Crest Ridge Sinclair =)  I will be sending you photos soon of my hard to fit APHA mare.

 I have attached a photo of my handsome boy showing off his new Sinclair saddle and 4-point breast collar.
Happy Trails
Erika Jones and Mac's Firecracker (aka Rio)

Click to see larger photo
 
 

Hey Tanya,

Just wanted to update you on my friend Pam and her new SR05 mah 17W saddle for her walker.  Last night we got her all saddled up and out for a short ride (30 mins).  She did well in the saddle and so did the horse.  The pattern looked good after the saddle and pad came off too.  She's feeling pretty good right now and we'll both be out this weekend so we'll get a better feel on a longer ride. 

The bottom line is I think 'we' are about to have another satisfied Crestridge customer!  Hey doesn't that make you smile????  BTW, my 16 R should be here today and I'll try it out this weekend too.

Joy Derda
Maryland
 
 

Hi Debra & Tanya,

Just to let you know that Pam & I both just love the SR05's we got....had some nice rides over the weekend and both the horses did wonderfully (my horse does great in her sonata too) and we are comfortable in them too. 

So thanks for you help and Happy Trails!

Joy Derda
Maryland
 
 

"Where love and skill come together, expect a masterpiece." - John Ruskin

Folks, the masterpiece You sent was the BEST Valentine's present I ever received!  Oh, the saddle is so exquisite and so gorgeous.  The craftsmanship and quality are awesome.  You can feel how much love was put into it. It is actually like a work of art in my bedroom!  I sit upon it every evening, and can't wait to try it out.  I thank You and bless You, the generations that came before You, and the generations that are to come for the work of your hands!

Rev. Tina Brady, O.M.
Missions of Joy Ministry
 
 

Hi, 

I have an over   99% Arabian mare (PINTABIAN)  that I  have always had saddle issues with.  This saddle (with the Trail Boz Supra Cinch) is the best fitting saddle that I have had on her.   All my saddles went forward on this mare  thus putting her cinch  up against the elbow.

But More EXITING   Than That--------
When I started using this saddle it is the most comfortable saddle that I have ever used!!!   AND  I have always had a problem at the canter with my lead leg swinging forward with each canter stride.   THIS SADDLE KEEPS MY LEG STILL  at the canter without any effort.   Can not wait to ride in a few horsemanship classes now!!!!!    My mare Pintaris  thanks you!!  She is much more relaxed and smooth riding now!!

I can not wait to get another GUFFEY.     MY HUSBAND EVEN LIKES THIS SADDLE !!
THANKS 
Marlene
 
 

Hello,

Just a quick note to let you know that I have received the Tapadero stirrups, they are brilliant, thank you! It's been a pleasure.

Kind regards,
Tina.
 
 

Debra,

I recently received the Guffy Elite Show Casualty that you sent up to me in Oregon. It fits my horse like a glove! Just like your ads say, "This One Fit". The Stable Owner and Trainers where my horses are in for training were all very impressed with the quality of the leather and the workmanship in general. None of that compared to when each of us took our turn riding in the Elite saddle seat. What a comfortable place to place your backside. Nobody could believe this was a brand new saddle. Anyway, I'm thrilled and can't thank you enough for your help and excellent customer service. I will refer everyone I know back to you and Crest Ridge.
 
 

Sincerely,

Aaron Young, CEO
 
 

Debra,

I just wanted to share a testimonial about my new Slick Seat Guffey. Before all that, I wanted to thank you for your tireless support through the process of measuring my MFT, ordering the Guffey, fitting the saddle, towel-testing the saddle and ensuring that all was perfect. I have never dealt with a company that rendered so much support to the customer! Most importantly, you always kept the proper fit of my MFT AND me in mind. Upon our first talking, I was heading down a road of spending way too much and ordering the wrong type of saddle for my needs. You quickly walked me through a logical sequence of questions and guided me into a far more suitable saddle for my needs, my MFT’s needs and followed through with answers! You were great!

 I’ve had my saddle for 4 days now, and in those four days my MFT has gaited! I was able to acquire him (a foundation MFT!) because he was not gaiting consistently. He was not ridden for several years when I bought him with the advice that he is not a good rider. He had his moments, believe me! In four days, he has responded perfectly and fox-trotted for over a mile through a wheat field! I have been roping from him and working cattle (team penning), and on my old roper saddle, he was moving erratically, was not cutting quickly and seemed to be resisting all my cues. This guy now cuts on a dime and seems to have a freedom of movement and speed that I wasn’t aware of at all. My riding style hasn’t changed, he hasn’t changed, the conditions haven’t changed….only the saddle changed…..and so did his performance. I really believe in the gaited horse saddle now!

 Your custom order saddle with a roper tree, breast collar and back flank is the perfect rig for my MFT and it fits me great too! Thanks so much! I can’t wait to get a photo to you to post on your site!

 Thanks for the talk tonight too. I’ll try all the methods you suggested to continue his gait. I hope to ride all weekend over the V-Day holiday….I’ll let you know how we do!

Best regards,

Alex
Lansing KS
 
 

Hello!

I bought a Christmas special saddle last year, (The Guffey silver laced one) I LOVE IT !!! I wanted to tell you that I judged a field trial last weekend and rode in it for 6 hrs on Friday, 7 on Sat. and 4 on Sunday, on two different horses, and it is magnificent! Thank you, and I will send pictures, 

Leslie Green
 
 

Debra,

I just wanted to say thank you for helping me so much in getting Boone the perfect fitting saddle.  It's absolutely lovely, rides very comfortably, and Boone is being his old self again.  We have had several successful rides with the new saddle, and with each one Boone gets calmer and calmer acting.  I am actually enjoying riding him!!  Also, I've noticed that he is staying in gait very well....which I have heard that I can attribute to the nicely fitting saddle.    I cannot say how pleased I am with the saddle!  Your customer service is also outstanding.   You can rest assured...I would recommend Crest Ridge Saddlery to anyone looking for a great affordable saddle.....that will fit!  Also, when hubby decides to get a horse (or when I get another one!) you will be hearing from me again!

Buying from you has been a very pleasant experience.

Thank you!

Jessica Holder....& Boone!
 
 

Hi Debra;

Just a short note to say thanks. Put about 60 miles in the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia on Spice this past weekend. Some of it on very steep (slides) trails up and down. Never felt so secure in a saddle as I was in my Guffy. It stayed in position the whole time (even with a loose girth). It was COMFORTABLE!!! 

Two parties, also, tried it and said they would be contacting you.  I'll send you some pictures later.

Thanks again.

Ken Halleck
 
 

Deb,

I just want to thank you for your devotion to the project of finding my horse a proper fitting saddle. He is 14 years old and I believe this is the first one that he's ever had in his life. He's an awesome horse and deserves to be ridden without pain. You dubbed him the hardest horse you have ever fit, and he will proudly wear that hat!!  If you can fit him, you can fit any horse! 

Four months and four saddles, it's been a long haul for both of us and you are my hero. When I started, I didn’t know he would be so hard to fit. I'm so glad I chose CrestRidge Saddlery. Your saddles are beautiful, and your customer service is unbelievable! 

I feel like I know you now, and I hope some day, we will meet face to face. Thank you for a wonderful experience and a beautiful, great fitting saddle for my horse. 
Thank you, thank you, thank you....

Jeri Hardcastle and Chance.
 
 

I have tried many saddles on my Morgan mare. If the gullet is wide enough for her shoulders, the angle of the bars drops the saddle on top of her withers. Also, her back isn't shaped like a QH (based on past experience, I'm not sure most QH backs are shaped like QH bars, either). I do a lot of research based on the reviews on this website and saw the Crest Ridge Saddlery information. I had seen custom saddles for twice as much, so I thought I'd give the Crest Ridge a try. I followed the simple directions on their website and did the gullet/wither measurements. 

Then, I took a couple of picture of my horse's back and emailed them to Debra. She directed me to an Elite Guffey on their Show Casualties page and I ordered it. When I got the saddle, I put it on my Morgan mare with a white towel, but no pad and rode long enough for her to sweat. I took a picture of the dirty sweat marks on the towel and emailed them to Debra. She told me how thick a pad to use. I did and tried again (while riding, a friend asked if my stirrups were too short and they were). 

Once again, I emailed the picture of the dirty white towel to Debra -- she wrote back and said it looked like my stirrups were too short. She's like a tea leaf reader for saddles! I haven't had the saddle long and have only ridden once since the white towel test (was busy shaping the fenders). My trainer just rode in it today -- and we found out my mare is gaited! My trainer said it's probably because she finally has a saddle that doesn't interfere with her shoulders. In summary, this is a quality saddle from a very caring and competent company. And, best of all, it fits both my horse and me!

Pam McClure
 
 

HI Tanya,

I got the saddles today.  OH MY GOD What a difference!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I ran out of daylight before we could try the SR05 but I rode in mine (show casualty Guffey Elite) for about 20-30 minutes.  She went right into her running walk and didn't break into a hard trot once.  It was fantastic!!  I am attaching pics of the white towel but it slipped to the side a little so I can try it again with a bigger if you want me to.   She even acted like she felt better and moved out more.  My daugher rode in my saddle too and loved it.  I'll take some pictures of her in "full gear" this weekend and email them to  you.  I just can't tell you how much I appreciate all of your help, advice, guidance etc.... I will HIGHLY recommend your company to everyone I talk to and will probably be selling a couple of my other saddles and getting the next two from you as well.  Feel free to put this email on your website as a VERY, VERY satisfied customer.  Thanks again!
 

Amy Loy
TwinCreek Australian Shepherds
www.twincreekaussies.com
 
 

Hello Debra

My saddle (show casualty) arrived on Monday and it is simply gorgeous!  It is exactly what I've been wanting and I couldn't wait to put it on my Tennessee Walker, Camille.  I thought it fit great but I waited until today to email you so I could get the input of my trainer.  Well, the verdict is in.  My trainer not only thought the fit was terrific but she was also impressed by the quality and workmanship of the saddle.  I've introduced her to your website so she can explore the variety of trees and other options that you offer.  She has around sixty Tennessee Walkers for show and pleasure plus others that come in for training and I hope this will mean an increase of orders for you.  The saddle is well worth it.  I'm going to tell everyone I know about Crest Ridge Saddlery.

Thank you so very much for all the help and phone calls you so graciously returned while I was searching for the perfect saddle.

Sincerely,
Kathy
 
 

Crest Ridge Saddlery,
Debra
THANK YOU so much for making a saddle that really does fit the gaited horse. I purchased your Sonata SR05 and my Paso Fino is finally standing still for me to get on him. I use a mounting block as I am older and a little heavier and could never get my horse to be still unless someone held his head. We don't have to do that anymore!! Yea!! I am sure that as time goes by, Emparador ( his is only 4) will continue to settle down since his saddle doesn't hurt him anymore. I will send pictures soon. 
Someday I hope to meet you all in person. KEEP up the good work.

Yours,
Polly Hale
Ravenna, TX
 
 

Hello again,

I just received my Crusade for my Rocky.  I was really worried that it wouldn't fit, since I have purchased so many saddles that only bridged and one that was custom made that was too large and slide off to the side all of the time.  Very worried, but today I rode in the crusade which was a regular tree,  and it is perfect!  His sweat pattern is even and I feel very secure in it.  Just wanted you to know.  I wondered if my Arab could use this saddle also.  Please let me know your thoughts on the matter.

Thanks a bunch
Marilyn in Virginia
 
 

Dear Debra & Tanya,

I have to say, when I opened the box of my new SR05 Hunters package, my jaw dropped. I scarcely could believe the quality built into the reins, bridle-halter, breast collar, scabbard, and last but not least, the SADDLE itself. What a DEAL!

The saddle came Thursday & I could not ride right away, so my daughter (who prefers English) took it with her for a short ride on Saturday while I was on duty (firefighter). She indicates it fits like a glove and her horse did not act up as he has been doing with the other saddles we have tried. He does well with her English, but I prefer western. I almost went with an Aussie before hooking up with your Sonota package & visiting your website.

"Nelson" is a tall Appy who is very finicky about saddles. Your website answered questions I had regarding how to properly fit a saddle, as well as how they are built & differ from other makes. For the first time, I didn't feel as if I was purchasing blindly.

By the way, thanks for exchanging the package tree size for the the right size tree. That was my mistake & you were more than gracious in finding the right size.

I will keep you posted on the progress & try to include photos, because the Mohagany & Black looks great when Nelson is all tacked up.

Thanks & Blessings to CRS for one happy Appy,
Dave & Sammi Burkart
 
 

It's taken me a few days to sit down and write this letter because I really wanted to make sure I fully expressed my appreciation to you and your staff.  I also wanted to describe in detail to those folks reading this that are looking for a new saddle the terrific positive experience I had working with you.

Three years ago I purchased Indy my Missouri Foxtrotter gelding and my saddle fit troubles began.  It didn't take me more than a couple of rides to figure out that the trooper saddle I had ridden my TWH in just wasn't going to work for my new guy.  Still don't know if the saddle actually fit the TWH or if he just tolerated the discomfort better than Indy did.  But anyway, I researched and perused websites and catalogs looking for something I hoped would work.  To make a long story short let's just say that I went through about 5 saddles trying to find one that would work for my horse.  I tried flex trees and treeless saddles.  We had bucking fits and sullen pouts, sore backs and even a hematoma from one poorly fitting saddle.  Nothing seemed to work, or if it did it was only a temporary fix and just introduced different problems. 

When I first read folks on the Internet talking about Crest Ridge saddles on the Gaited Horse Sense message board and The Gaited Horse Forum I was pretty skeptical.  After all I have been there, done that, got the tee-shirt and yet another poorly fitting saddle.  I had about decided that if I was ever going to get anything that really truly fit my horse I was going to have to have an expensive custom made saddle built and then pray that it actually ended up fitting.  I visited your website and was amazed at all the information to be found.  I was even more amazed at the beautiful saddles pictured and the reasonable prices.  I figured it was all too good to be true and debated quite a while before I finally took the plunge and sent in measurements and pictures of my horse. 

I really liked the look of the Ovation and the price as well, so I had my heart set on owning one.  I chatted with Tanya a bit about it and since the Ovations are made on the McClellan tree and I felt like my horse had a flat back, we decided that it would work....HOORAYYY!!  I was thrilled! 

The saddle arrived and was just as gorgeous as the pictures, I really loved the Wild Rose tooling.  I went right out and saddled my horse up, but something wasn't quite right.  I sent in pictures and e-mailed back and forth with you.  You told me to put the saddle higher than I thought it should go and then try V rigging it.  Still I could not get the saddle to settle into the sweet spot the way your website said it should.  I decided to do a white towel test and took the saddle out for it's first test ride.  Things weren't quite right, but I couldn't put my finger on the problem.  My horse was moving much more freely through the shoulders and he had a huge amount of head nod, but he was moving in a very vetroflexed frame.  According to the white towel test the rear bars of the saddle were grinding, but I chalked it up to nerves from riding at home and figured I would need to take him away from home and out on the trail to get him relaxed and riding normally.  The weather here wasn't cooperating (OK summers you know) and we were looking at temps in the 100's so you kindly gave me a few days extension so I could haul out and hit the trails in cooler temps.  Well, my patience isn't the best and I couldn't stand to wait so I got up very very early the next morning pulled my horse out of the pasture and decided to try again here at home.  This time he was much calmer and worked in a nice relaxed frame, but things still weren't right.  His gait was choppy and he was really wringing his tail when turning.  When I unsaddled and took a look at the white towel, it told the tale. The tree was just too flat and was bridging, causing the rear bars to grind into him.  The good news was the dirt pattern on the front of the saddle was perfect.  I knew we were on to something, but I just needed to try a tree with a little more rock.  I sent the pictures of the second white towel test and you agreed that the fit wasn't what it should be...no problem you said, just return the saddle and we will go from there. 

I gave you a call once I knew the saddle had been returned and we talked more about what kind of saddle my horse needed.  Together we decided that my second choice (the Crusade) would be my best bet and started discussing the options I wanted.  Initially, it looked like because I needed a wide tree, a 17 inch seat and wanted the Elite model that I was going to have to place an order and wait for my saddle to be built.  You looked around your shop, then graciously offered to send me your personal saddle that had just come in and was on the rack just waiting for you to find the time to start riding it.  Again, I was thrilled. 

We completed the transaction and I anxiously awaited my new saddle.  I knew when I opened the box that this saddle was the right one.  WOW!!  What a saddle!  I pulled my horse in from the pasture and saddled him up.  This time there was no struggle to find the "sweet" spot.  The saddle just sunk right into place!  I went out for a short test ride and sent you pics of the white towel test.  I knew it looked pretty good, but was elated when I got the e-mail back from you that said we had it RIGHT!  You told me to double the Navajo pad and try the white towel test again in order to improve the contact in the middle.  I did as instructed and low and behold...the dirt pattern looked terrific!!  HOOOORRRRAAAYYYY!!!  I was doing the happy saddle dance for sure! 

So now you know why I say CREST RIDGE ROCKS!!  Their saddles are gorgeous, their customer service is second to none and best of all like they say....THIS ONE FITS!

Thank you,
Tiffany Whited and Indy
Guthrie, Oklahoma 

P.S.  This time I've been, there done that, GOT THE T-SHIRT :) and a great saddle!
 
 

Debra,

After spending a couple of hours in that new saddle this evening, I'm another happy rider!! This one definitely fits!! And for the first time this year, my Rocky mare is gaiting like she should. She had started to do a bone jarring stepping pace under the old saddle. Thank goodness, it looks like this new Sonata SR-05 fits her 100% better so she can do the signature gait of a Rocky. Also fits me pretty well too !

The saddle also got several compliments on it's looks. The barn owner's daughter actually rode in it before I did, and gave it kudos. She was just a little unsure of the feel of the higher cantle, but I think if she rode it more, she would learn to appreciate it also. That's how I knew the mare had reverted to her normal gait, I could see it. Then when I climbed aboard, I could feel it. World of difference from that nasty pace!!!!

Thanks again,
Jeanne Britt
 
 

I'm still smiling from ear to ear about how great this saddle is and how well it fits.  You have literally blown me away, Deb!  God bless you!
I took the day off from work and am going for a nice, long, relaxing ride so I can truly take in every bit of the relief that I feel right now.  Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh...this sure is a load off of my mind.  :o) 
Hubby's been eyeballing my saddle pretty hard and ten bucks says that he will want a Guffey of his own within the next few weeks.  LOL.
You're the first company/person that I've dealt with that talked the talk AND walked the walk.   Hold your head up high and know that you're worlds ahead of other companies that can't -and won't- make good on their outrageous "promises".

Many hugs to you and I wish you MUCH success with your saddles.

Again...many more thanks than you can ever imagine!

Jami Collie, OH
 
 

Hello Debra,

I rode in the new saddle last nite.  I LOVED IT !   It did not slip when mounting at all and was very comfortable, just as you said.   My friends are impressed as well.

I will send you a picture of Moon all tacked up when I get it all together.

Thank you so much !
Tonya Minna
 
 

what a great time we had riding with you at Tall Pines Resort!! My friends and I truly enjoyed the cabin, the riding, your horses and of course the Crest Ridge saddles we rode in. Hope you had a safe trip to Iowa and back. We hope to see you in October as the scenery is truly spectacular. Hope to ride with you again real soon. Will send you pictures when I get them. Say Hi to Mr. Stubby for me. 

Betty Bishop
 
 

I placed an order from your web site. It was for two breast collars and trail boz head stalls. I receive the items today and they are wonderful!  Thanks a million for you excellent service. 

Rashael Raymer
Carleton, MI 
 
 

I've been putting off writing this because I wanted to find the 'perfect' things to say - so here goes!
As a child, I rode as much as I could, always on other people's horses.  I rode hunt seat at schools and always wanted the most 'forward' horse. 
As an adult, I waited for the moment I could grasp my dream of having my own horse, on my own land.

That opportunity presented itself last year, and not 5 months after we purchased our farm, I found a beautiful Walker whom I love dearly.  However, with him, I found I am not 16 years old anymore, and forward FAST is not fun anymore.

I had almost given up on riding on my own until a friend found Chloe for me.  Chloe is a Walker Standard bred cross - a very smart mare with a heart of gold.  But along with it came the saddle fitment from hell!  Except for my English cutback (which is not suitable for mountain  trails) nothing I had or could find fit her.  Even an expensive gel  therapeutic pad under a slightly ill fitting saddle resulted in bucking  and biting.  So this is where I was, if you remember when I first  contacted Crest Ridge.  I looked at all the options, including treeless,  but I'm a big girl and thought about weight distribution...after pictures and measurements, you informed me that the Sonata you had in stock (and on sale nonetheless!) would probably  be great!

A few days later when I received my saddle, I tried it with the new pad you sent.  Bad news.  Why?  The saddle is such a perfect fit that anything underneath is unnecessary!!!  So on my 31st birthday, Chloe and I fulfilled my dream of riding my own horse on my own property, on my own.  For those of you who have been riding for years, it may not seem like a big deal to you, but for me it meant EVERYTHING.  I can feel safe and enjoy my time with my horse, and take a break from my two small children, yet know I will return to them safely!!!

Chloe has gone from getting antsy when a saddle is flung over her back  toignoring it...no more flattened ears.  I still have to figure out the v-rigging, for when we go on more strenuous trips, but for right now in the field everything is perfect.

I'm working Parelli with Watch (the fast forward gelding) and it appears that the saddle will fit him as well, so when we're ready, I'll have another order for you!  I could probably sell my assortment of build up pads, ortho pads, etc to fund the purchase!

Thanks for everything!
Andrea &
Chloe
 
 

Hi Deb,

Just wanted to send you a thanks for your help in getting the Sonata saddle out to me.  After 3 good days (no rain) to ride, the fit appears to be good ( the white towel test was pretty cool), my KMSH mare is moving and gaiting out well.  Today we had a 2 hour ride in the State Park and both Scarlet and I were comfortable (love the padded seat!) and had a great afternoon.

Thanks again.

Joy Derda
West Friendship, Maryland
 
 

Hi Debra & Tanya,

I rode my new SR05 Sonata on a trail ride, very rough terrain.... a lot of steep gullies, creeks, woods, fallen trees plus, thank goodness, just easy road riding.  The saddle is great for me and my TWH.   I think it's a handsome saddle, too.  I usually use stirrup straights, even on synthetic saddles, but even new, the fenders on this saddle are comfortable.  The padded seat was soft and secure.  Thanks for extending me an extra day of trial period.  Several of the riders asked about it and I directed them to your site.  As soon as I get some photos, I'll send them to you.  The saddle and breast strap are superior quality, especially for the price.

Thanks for all your help, 
Willie Collie,  Marshall, TX
 
 

Good Morning,

I just wanted to let you know that I received the breast collar and headstall on Friday. They are beautiful and really look nice with the Guffy Saddle. I got a chance to ride yesterday and the saddle was wonderful. Thank you so much for your help. You can count us as one more satisfied horse and rider. I am really looking forward to the riding season now and so is Sonny.ed Saddle
 

Thank you,

Vicki Wolter
 
 

Dear Deborah:

I purchased a Sonata saddle last November.  I didn't get to ride until the day after Christmas because here in Calif. we are having an extremely wet winter and the mud is unbelievable.  I really love my new saddle.  It fits my  rather sturday TWH gelding extremely well and I feel really secure in the seat!  I can't wait to go out again for a lengthy ride as soon as the mud dries up.  I have ridden in my back yard in it and we even took a tumble and I stayed put in the saddle! 

It is a beautiful saddle and much more saddle than I ever thought I'd get for the price.

Crest Ridge rules!!! thanks for a great saddle and fit.

Linda and "Baylee" (AKA Classy's Cut Bad Boy)
Gaited Saddle
 
 

Hi Tanya!

I was FINALLY able to execute my test ride!  I absolutely LOVE my elite Guffey!  And so does my Paso Fino, Ming!  Even after I took a slide down the basement stairs three days ago, the saddle was as comfy as my recliner.  I wish I would have had someone video taping my ride to see how awesome he did the Paso Largo!  Right away I knew this saddle fit him well.  He is pretty thick at the withers since he was a stallion for 13 years so I have had an awful time trying to fit him with a saddle but this is it!  The search is finally over.  I did the white towel test and came out with just a light brown towel at the end.  There wasn't one spot of mud or any sort of pressure points on his fur.  The only thing I did want to ask you was if you could send me directions for the V rigging.  I can't seem to keep the cinch far enough back with just the traditional rigging.  I thought it might be that the saddle was too far forward but I kept doing the rocking motion and it was always ending up in the same place and he was super comfortable with it there.  He even stood for the first time in over a year while I mounted him!  I am sending pictures, please let me know if I am doing something wrong in them.

Thanks so much and I can't wait for the breast collar and halter bridle!

Yours truly,
Shari Christensen
Gaited Saddle
 
 

Hi Debra,

Got my new Sonata yesterday, threw a white towel on, went for a ride and LOVED it!  :) 

Great wear marks, horse was a gaited machine, liked the stirrup position (have always ridden dressage and normally HATE western saddles!) love the light weight, and it's purdy!

Hmmm, may have to leave the horn on after all, didn't bother me as much as I thought it would.

Thanks so much!

Brenda Casebeer
Molalla, ORGaited Saddle

Hi Tanya!

Got my elite Guffey and it fits my horse GREAT! I was so worried about getting it right, but your Saddle Fitting 101 made it easy and I finally understood what I was supposed to do! I had been all over the internet and looked at many different saddle companies, but it was the fact that your site gave me all the details I needed that made me take the plunge and I am SO glad I did! BTW it is funny but there is someone else who has a customer that was confused and thought YOUR information was found with another saddle company, LOL that poor person is ending up stuck with a saddle without the benefit of the REAL DEAL! 

The quality is great on this saddle as good or better than any of the others I have seen, and I love the way the saddle FEELS when I ride it!

I am SO glad I found you! I will be sending in photos of my boy once the weather clears, THANKS your company is the answer to a gaited horses saddle needs!

WilliamGaited Saddle

Dear Debbie,

I am finally able to sit down and write to you about how happy I am with my Guffey Saddle. I absolutely love it!!! This is my story on its purchase I purchased my KMSH in June of 2004. It was a deal I could not pass up. The only problem was that the saddle that came with her and the saddle that I had for my gelding just did not fit her. I knew I had to get a different one but just did not know what or where to go. About two weeks after purchasing her I received my issue of Trail Rider magazine.  In there was an article on Crest Ridge Saddlery. I was interested and went to the website. 

I liked what I saw and called Debbie right away. She answered all my questions and walked me through on doing a wither measurement. I did my measuring, called her back, asked 50 more questions and preceded to order my saddle. The day that I received my saddle I was unable to try it out due to weather conditions. I worked the entire next day ad then on the 3rd day I worked then packed up the truck, trailer, horse and my new saddle (still in the box) and left for a 2-day clinic with Liz Graves. 

When our turn came I had her check the fit for me, which was perfect. I mounted up and proceeded to ride and her comment to the crowd and me was “PERFECT FITTING SADDLE TO THE RIDER AND TO THE HORSE!!!” She then had us do some circles in the arena and commented on how nice and smooth my mare was moving. It was the best ride she had given me since I had purchased her. The difference was amazing! She moved right out and was gaiting like a dream. Before it was a struggle to get her to move out and gait right. She just wasn’t comfortable but as soon as I put my Guffey Model Crest Ridge Saddle on she was a completely different horse. 

I LOVE my saddle!! From the moment I sat in it I have been impressed. I have recommended it to anyone and everyone who has asked about it. I was also very impressed with Debbie and all of he patience and helpfulness each and every time that I have dealt with her. It was a big gamble on my part to purchase a saddle sight unseen, let alone without trying it out first! But, with Debbie’s help and knowledge I have never regretted my purchase.

Gaited Saddle
Happy Trails,

Karin Perry & Whiskey!!!

Gaited Saddle
Crest Ridge Saddlery,

I have received my traveler saddle and am very pleased. I wasn't expecting it so fast so I was so excited when I got it. I immediatly took it out and it was gorgeous. It is from the scratch and dents and I was happy with how little was really wrong with it. ( I ordered it without any pictures. I have seen your other saddles on the scratch and dent and none of them looked bad so I took a chance and it sure did pay off!) It looks almost new, your scratch and dents are great deals!!
I have ridden my horse in it twice now and it fits him well. I am happy about that since my other saddles don't fit him that great and I haven't had a saddle fit a horse I have had without special pads for probably about 3 years. I just have a tacky pad (thin) under it and it fits!

I would definitly recomend people to you and if I need another saddle I wouldn't hesitate to turn to you. You have been very helpful, and you make a wonderful high quality product.

Oh and the bridle is wonderful! I can't believe how cheap you sell a bridle of that quality for!!! I have bought many that I think are of lesser quality for the same price or usually more. And I was pleasantly surprised by it. I didn't see your add for a free bridle with 100 dollar order till after I ordered and I wasn't sure if I was getting one or not and sure enough it was there in the box.

Thanks again!!!
Best Wishes,
Kezzie Vickers
Corvallis, Oregon

Gaited Saddles
Hi Tanya.  I received my Traveler saddle today!  :)  I'm so glad the saddle is so lightweight!  I have been using a 40-lb saddle on Manhattan for a while that I was using with a riser pad until I found the saddle I really needed.  It was so wonderful to be able to heft your saddle up on his back and not have to use a chair so I woun't slam it down on him!  He's 16.1, so I used a chair a lot to save his back when I was lugging that beast of a saddle around!

I really like the way the saddle looks.  It looks homemade, but in the sense of a well-made piece, where a lot of thought and work went into it.  I liken it to a quilt that can be bought from the Amish community--the craftsmanship is very obvious yet meticulous.  I love how you have put the material underneath the gullet as well, not just underneath the sides of the saddle.  (Sorry for my lack of use of technical terms--it's why I don't make 'em, I just use 'em!)

I did ride Manhattan up the road and back in the saddle just to see how it rides.  I stuck my finger in where the bar spread is while we walked, and it didn't pinch my finger and really felt like it wasn't causing him any problems.  I am amazed at how well this saddle works for a gaited horse.  Manhattan had plenty of shoulder room to walk in it and lots of room for his whithers and his head nod.  I also loved how it fit me--I can tell I'm sitting right where I need to be on his back to encourage him to move correctly and comfortably.  Plus the cushioned seat is wonderful!  I also love the cushioned stirrups and how wide they are.  I know my feet won't go numb riding in this saddle like it does in other saddles!

My husband seems a bit jealous.  He really likes the large rings on the saddle and how easy they are to replace if needed.  He  carries a lot of stuff on our long trail rides, so he likes as many rings and places to hook things as possible.  I told him that we'll have to get him one eventually, and he agreed! We have to wait until his horse has grown some more, though--she's only three right now, but she's at 15.3 hands and her rear is higher than her withers AGAIN!  Guess that's what happens when daddy is 17 hands and mom is 15.3!

Thanks!

Andrea Ohnstad
Silver Phoenix Ranch

Gaited Saddles
The tapaderos are great, especially this time of year.  I used to campaign field trial dogs and have owned other brands of 'Hooded stirrups'.  The Crest Ridge taps are far superior to any I have owned in the past. 
Hopefully, I can own one of your beautiful saddles in the near future. 

You have one very satisfied customer here. 
Anne Barnett
 
 

Gaited Saddles
Hi, I purchased a saddle last fall from you and just wanted to let you know how much I like it.  The day after I received it I went on a rugged two week wilderness elk hunt and the saddle fit perfectly - no sores on me or the horse.  Sending along a photo of it on my Tennessee Walker.

Thanks

David Campbell

Gaited Saddle
Debra, 

I love the saddle!!  (Sonata) We had such a blizzard that it took several days before I could try it on my mule.  I think it is a good fit.  I still need to find a thin blanket--I can see where that would be best. 
Thanks again for your beautiful saddle and prompt, friendly service. 

Sincerely,  Nancy Newton

WOW what a saddle......it (Sonata) finally arrived
 I have to say I was very surprised at the fit on my horse and me and how I felt closer to him.  Construction also a nice surprise.  I thought I would be uncomfortable with the thin fenders and to my surprise I never felt anything but comfort and balance.  I feel deeper in my seat than in my other gaited saddle which cost $650.00 (weight 30 pounds) and was bought after the custom $2,600 saddle (weight 42 pounds)proved to be a total mistake as the saddle maker said he was familiar with a gaited horse and was not.  This saddle will get a lot of use between my two horses as it fits them both!  I may have to buy another one.  I recommended to my friend who has mules., talk about hard to fit.

Want to buy a saddle?

Diane

Gaited Saddle

Hi Debra,

I just wanted to let you know my Sonata saddle arrived yesterday.  I tried it out today.  It seems to fit her fine.  It's going to take a little getting used to for me as I am used to riding in a English saddle and this puts me in a different position.  The stirrups could maybe be a tad shorter.  I am 4'9".  But I will try it for a while and perhaps have them made shorter.  I do feel very secure in the seat.  I plan on having an instructor check it out tomorrow, but I think it will work out fine. I got the saddle so that I could occasionally ride my husband's TWH.  His saddle is too big for me and I use an English saddle for my non-gaited horse.

Thank you for your help,
Gaited Saddle
Diana Sebastian

Debra
Thank you for all the help you gave me to make sure that I got the right saddle to fit my two gaited horses. I received my Guffey with the wide tree and suede seat 3 days ago. At first, I was afraid that it didn't fit my TWH. It appeared to fit my Kentucky Mountain horse after I tried a couple of different pads and blankets. Then I called you for advice and you told me that I didn't need a pad, just a thin blanket. Well, after our phone conversation, I rushed out and did what you explained (putting the saddle on higher than you know it goes and then rocking it rearward until it sinks into place, then cinching it up there) and the saddle fit like a glove on both horses! I used a thin blanket with my TWH and a little thicker one for my KMSH. Then I set it up high on the withers and just rocked it back into place on the horse's back. I am thrilled and plan to buy another saddle for the new Rocky Mountain horse I am buying. I urge anyone who has a saddle fitting problem to give you a call. Once again, thanks for all your help. You are the answer to every gaited horse owner's problem: a saddle that actually fits!

Helen Shuford
Scottsdale, AZ

Gaited Saddle

Just thought I'd let you know I am KEEPING this saddle.  I am so very much pleased with how it is working for both me and my mare, Rhi.  My husband and I are both convinced that ALOT of the behavior problems I was having with Rhi were from ill-fitting saddles.  And my husband was very impressed with the quality of the leather in this saddle.  We looked at the Tucker's and we both thought the leather looked cheap.  I rode 8 miles today and after getting the stirrups set right I was quite comfortable and so was she.  I am using the rigging that you sent me the diagrams and no galding so far.  And you are so right about not having to girt up so tight to get on.  Rhi is standing still again for mounting with a loose rein.  And, she is gaiting a nice running walk with a loose rein.

Put the first coat of oil on it today, it is just beautiful.

Once again, thanks for a wonderful product.
Gaited Saddle

Michele Tennery
 
 

Debbie,

THANK-YOU sooooo much for getting my saddle to me so soon.  It came on Thursday, not Friday!!!  It is a beautiful saddle as well are the accessories.  I took it out to try on my foxtrotter this morning and it fits GREAT!   I can't tell you what a relief it is to finally find a saddle that fits my horse.  He has high withers and was always getting pinched by the standard quarter horse saddles.   I absolutely love this Guffy saddle!  And I think my horse did too.  He gaited beautifully in it.

I look forward to doing business with you in the future!

THANK-YOU, THANK-YOU, THANK-YOU!

Laura Cramer  (the gal from Oklahoma who was in Colorado when making the order online)

Gaited Saddle

Betty Bishop
Gaited Saddle
 
 

I just received my new Sonata synthetic saddle. It is absolutely beautiful.
Now I know what is meant when people talk about the workmanship of your saddles. I never expected to get such quality for so little money. It is amazing.

I actually slung it over a chair on the porch and sat in it. It fits me perfectly. Can you imagine what a sight that was for a 64 year old chubby lady. I couldn't stand it, I had to try it! My husband thought that was quite amusing!!!!

I can't tell you how much I appreciate you letting me have the first saddle.

Tomorrow I will try it on my TWH gelding and the next day I will try it on My SSH. I know I will now be able to get them tacked up without help. I am pretty sure after all our measuring that the saddle will fit them fine.

I am a 1 1/2 year Breast Cancer survivor and It is important to me that I be able to do things for myself again. My horses are a very important part of my recovery.

Please feel free to use me as a reference anytime.

Thanks again,Judy McCauley

Gaited Saddle

Debbie,

It was a pleasure to meet you at the show! I'm sure you knew we were taking two saddles home before you even told us about them. Please allow me to tell all your potential customers why.

My wife's horse is a MFT and is quite large, we've been having a rough time finding a saddle to fit him. We have had Justus for three years and never seen him gait with a saddle on. We knew he could because of the way he moved in the field when he was feeling frisky. A while ago we spent a lot of money on a well known saddle "made for the gaited horse" and it was an improvement from the previous saddle but he still wasn't gaiting under saddle. The night before we visited you at the show we tried out a friend's Guffey on Justus, after we measured for proper fit. He GAITED beatifully, "this saddle fits!" I have heard sales pitches, sat through clinics and been impressed but the Crest Ridge saddle sold itself in 30 minutes time on the horse's back! I have aquired a FT for myself recently and was waiting to buy a saddle until I could check yours out and I would have none other than a Crest Ridge. THANK YOU! You have a lifetime customer here and when Jesse (my yearling quarter) is ready for saddle next year I'll ask you to make one for him. Words can't tell you how happy we are and how comfortable our horses are. If any potential customers want to get an opinion from a customer this is my e-mail: cplgunn@sbcglobal.net
We are also thrilled with the saddle bags, breast collars and gel pads. You have a quality product at a VERY reasonable price and we take comfort knowing you stand behind your products. I'll be calling you soon to add to my order.

Thank you again!
Rusty Gunn
 

Gaited Saddle

I have been thinking of you and anxious to let you know how much we love the saddle--it fits both our Paso's great--we got a neoprene pad that we just tried and it makes a big difference in being able to switch from a narrow withered horse to a broad back w/no withers!
Gaited Horse Saddle
You were absolutely correct in saying padding will make the saddle interchangeable--I did try it on my big fat quarter horse-while the ride wasn't nearly as smooth--the saddle was great-and I swear he was smiling because of the loss of all that extra weight on the heavy old western saddle he was accustomed to!!!! We were rank beginners with Paso's, got them and had no saddles to fit. We were stuck and confused-found your web site and the rest is history--w/in a week, I had a new saddle that fits great! I think I'm floating across the range!!! 
Gaited Horse Saddle
I felt so badly about pestering you all day with questions, but it's scary to buy, sight unseen, when you aren't sure what you need-and you were so patient and great, answering all my questions so fast-I didn't want to turn off the computer as I might miss another message from you!! And after all was said and done--we took the plunge, worried all week about the consequences-it's returnable--but what a hassle,,, We were thrilled and relieved when we saw it! The saddle fit great and felt wonderful! I love the deep seat and feel so secure-mostly-my daughter loves the fact that there's not much between you and the horse--a good feeling coming from English to western--where you feel there is so much saddle there that you can't even feel them!! 
Gaited Horse Saddle
Anyway--we gave it a couple good oilings--are so happy to be able to finally enjoy our new horses and know we are riding them in comfort and not hurting them!! Many thanks-and keep up the good work--don't be surprised if some of our friends come to you next-one has mules and 2 others are anxious to get into the Paso world--gaited horses are great for us "old" and "disabled" folks who would otherwise have to really limit riding!!!!! 

You've been great-take care, 

Jon and Susie Danforth

Gaited Saddle
 
 

I just wanted to let you know how much we love our saddle we bought from you! We bought it for Clay to ride his gaited horse and now that I am working trail horses full time I have several different gaited horses to ride for folks and I have found that this saddle has fit every one! It really gives the horse the relief it needs to move out on the trail, and in the show ring! My daughter rode in the Slow Gaited class in our Crest Ridge Trail saddle and took 1ST Place out of a class of 19!! All of the other riders were in show saddles full of silver and flash but our saddle was made for a gaited horse. That is what made the difference!!!
Gaited Saddle
Just thought you should know how very happy we are with the saddle!
Gaited Horse Saddle
Thanks,

Heidi Jenkins

Debra,

As you indicated I will be keeping the saddle.  The saddle arrived Wed afternoon.  It had been cool and drizzly all day and by late afternoon we were again under a tornado warning, one touched down north and west of us.   I did open the box right away.  I have to confess I almost closed it back up and returned it.  It looked like the tree was too wide and way too flat to ever work.  But I figured since it was here I would at least give it a try.

Thurs. morning after the fog had cleared we had brief sun with very gusty winds.  I took the saddle out to the barn and  set it on every horse I ride.  To my  surprise it seemed to fit much better than I had expected, although it is a little long for my very short backed 3 yr. old.  Because of the wind, mud and the promise of warmer drier weather, I decided not to ride.  Well the weather folks lied again as it rained all day Fri., at least we didn't get any more tornados!
Gaited Horse Saddle
Sat I loaded a couple of horse and headed up to my equine chiropractor, Dr Dave Seiman's.  I took the saddle also as he is the most knowledgeable saddle fitter I know.  As a chiropractor he has studied saddle fit from the bones up.  I have attended a few clinics by him and everything he said made sense AND was backed up by scientific fact.  Well, he was impressed with your saddle design.  He has in the past only recommended one saddle to folks, Dave Genedek's Black Rhino, a semi custom and not cheap saddle.  He asked me to forward your info so he could contact you directly.  Dr Dave's endorsement was all I needed to convince me this was the saddle I have been looking for.  Unfortunately, I still haven't actually ridden a horse with it yet.  It is sunny this morning so if it is still good when I get back from giving riding lessons I will finally get to try it!
Gaited Horse Saddle
Thank you for your patience and hopefully we will be doing business again soon ( I have 5 horses under saddle and now only two saddles that fit well).

Ramona
PS do you have any 14" seats?  I have a neighbor who is looking.

Gaited Saddles

I now have ridden in my new Crusader  several times and I love it.  Mojo, my Tennessee Walker seems to like it too, because he gaits well and is now very calm on the trail.  With the other saddle that I was borrowing from a friend, he would move while I was mounting which then progressed to bucking before I could get into the saddle.  He now stands still and is relaxed.   I don't know if it just the saddle, but it does seem to have made a big difference in his comfort level.  Thank you so much taking so much time with me to get a saddle that fits my difficult to fit short- backed gaited horse. You went beyond what I would consider good customer care.  You were always available for my numerous questions, if you weren't at the phone, you called back extremely promptly, and were always kind and honorable.  I know you really cared about  me getting the right saddle. 
Gaited Horse Saddle
Oh, and it is beautiful and so well made too.  I put a coat of conditioner on it last night and the mahogony color came out to an incredibly rich dark brown with red tones and it is much more supple now.  I will send you a picture of it tomorrow.  The saddle bags are very nice also.  Well I'm off to ride,  thank you again so much. 

I will recommend you highly to anyone. 

Patty Hamel

Gaited Saddle

Hey Deb,

The saddle fits well! She had freedom of movement she has not had before , I think.. she acted like an absolute ass for me, shying and spooking and wanting to run run run.. I gave up and got on  the friends horse and Sandy rode Moya and she was fine for her.. Glad to have a saddle to fit  my gaited horses BUT I think Moya has too much spunk for me. This is not the first time she has acted rotten and I panic easily

Any how the saddle was very comfortable and it fits so

Thanks A LOT!!

Laurie in NY

Gaited Horse Saddl

Hi Debra,

Got my saddle, breast collar, saddle bags & headstall.  I am going to return the headstall as it just looked too big on my horse and the headstall I have is a perfect color match.  Do I need a return authorization number?  Just credit my account#.  I am very pleased with the quality of everything and took a ride yesterday.  My horse seems to like the saddle.......his ears were forward and there was no crow hopping.  He seemed to gait very well.  I even got some compliments from other trail riders on the apperance of the saddle and breast collar.  That sure is a good idea with the way the breastcollar attaches and it really frees up the shoulder.  I think the saddle bags are very nice also.......they wrap around the saddle so nice and the leather is so pliable.  Hope to get some more riding in this week to confirm the results of the saddle fit.  It is very comfortable for me also.

Thanks,

Steve Gemmill
Gaited Horse Saddle

Gaited Horse Saddle
Hi Deb,

I have been meaning to tell you about an incident two weeks ago with my racking gelding Buck.  He is a big, spirited and powerful horse.  I was riding him alone down the road not far from our farm, we were both just daydreaming along with his velvet gait and as we passed a bush/tree a bird rustled within it.  Buck and I both startled and we both jumped.  Buck is sweet and totally controllable and cooperative but he jumped literally across the road.  I felt a foot of air between my butt and the saddle seat but luckily I was able to gather the reins with one hand and grab the horn with the other.

Deb if I had been riding any other saddle I would have fallen and been seriously hurt on the pavement.  It is only by the grace of the deep seat on this A fork saddle and the horn that I was able to ride through this jump and stay put. 

I bought this saddle for Rocky my round TWH but it fits Buck so well and with the 1800's bridle and reins looks SO good on my big buckskin that I use it on Buck instead. After this I intend to use this deep seat saddle on Buck ALL the time. Whew and thanks for a secure trail saddle that saved me for sure.

Pam and the big Buckskin

Gaited Horse Saddle