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Performance
Cara Monoflap Dressage
Colour: Black only
Leather / Trim: Italian calf with croc trim
Panel: Wool flocked Performance Panel (Patent: GB2515079)
Changeable Gullet: N/M to XW/XXW
Gullet Bar Type: R-Bar
| Seat Size | Flap Options | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Petite | Standard | Long | |
| 16½" | • | • | |
| 17" | • | • | • |
| 17½" | • | • | • |
| 18" | • | • | |
Originally developed with Friesian specialist Marc-Peter Spahn to fit the 'uphill' conformation of this breed, this saddle is now available with a choice of panels to fit a wider variety of conformation types.
- Surface-mounted thigh block gives the experienced rider support without restricting their position
- Patented Performance Panel is proven to help the horse move more freely, improving extension, flexion and gait symmetry
- Use the shoulder blocks to fine tune the amount of leg support the rider requires
- Customise the blocks to allow the rider to sit squarely on a horse with asymmetrical shoulders
- Luxurious, super-grippy Italian calf leather
- The 'default' trim for this saddle is croc print, but a plain bespoke option is also available
Design Details
Scientifically researched
All Fairfax saddles are designed using the scientific research and development that goes into our Performance and World Class ranges. Every saddle benefits from our pressure-relieving design experience – so the horse benefits too!
Handmade in England
All our saddles are handmade in Walsall, England by highly skilled Master Saddlers.
Prolite®-lined panel
The wool-flocked panels are lined with a layer of Prolite® for proven pressure distribution, while still allowing for traditional re-flocking on site
Changeable Gullet Bars
All saddles feature a changeable gullet bar (either S-Bar or R-Bar) which allows the saddle fitter to choose the width fitting that best suits the profile of the horse’s withers. The bars can be changed quickly and easily as the horse develops or changes shape.
British Wool Flocking
British wool provides superior softness and comfort for the horse. Each saddle has two flocking slots which make it easy for your saddle fitter to make quick fitting adjustments on site.
Girthing Options
Fairfax Performance and World Class Monoflap Dressage saddles are unique in having this three billet configuration. Your saddle fitter has the option to remove the third one if it is not needed, or simply tuck it into the keeper on the girth.
When assessing the fit of a saddle, always begin with neutral position – 2nd and 3rd billet
If the saddle slips forward the saddle fitter will use the 1st and 3rd billets
NEVER girth using the 1st and 2nd billet together – it will cause saddle instability
Additional Saddle Features
Patented Performance Panel
(Patent: GB2515079)
This saddle features the ground-breaking Fairfax Performance Panel which is scientifically proven to increase limb extension, joint flexion and gait symmetry.
The weight-bearing part of the panel under the rider’s seat is separated from the part under the rider’s knee (which lies over the horse’s shoulder). This allows the horse’s shoulder independence of movement, free from any restriction that a traditional panel could potentially cause – particularly beneficial on a horse with big shoulders or big shoulder movement
Adjustable Shoulder Blocks
Performance and World Class Dressage Saddles are supplied with three thicknesses of changeable shoulder blocks.
Select the thickness of block according to rider preference - the thicker the block, the ‘closer’ it will bring the flap to the rider’s leg.
If a horse has asymmetrical shoulders, use the thicker block on the side with less muscle. This allows the rider to sit squarely while the horse is free to move underneath, building up muscle without restriction. Some riders might prefer for the block to be removed completely, in this case, replace it with a 'blank'
Bespoke Options
There is the option for your Fairfax saddle fitter to order this saddle with the following bespoke options
- Panel: Full panel (instead of Performance)
- Colour: Havana
- Trim: plain
- Welt: grey, plain black, Havana, cream
- Stitch: grey, black, Havana, cream
-
Flap options:
Shorter flaps available on 17”, 17½”, 18”
Longer flaps available on 16½”, 17”, 17½”
Care & Use
The correct care of your Fairfax saddle is essential. Follow these instructions to ensure years of happy service from your purchase
- If you have purchased your saddle new, it will come with a tube of Rapide Leathergel. Apply a generous coat of Rapide before first use, using a soft cloth or sheepskin mitt.
- Any dirt etc should be removed with a damp cloth after use.
- Then re-apply Leathergel at least once a week to dry, clean leather. Apply to all surfaces.
- Never use wet tack.
- Do NOT use any products containing alcohol (such as spray soap), glycerine (eg saddle soap) or oil (including neatsfoot) on this saddle. Any colour loss or damage to the leather caused by these products will not be covered by the saddle’s guarantee.
- If your saddle gets wet (in the rain or on the XC course for eg) allow the leather to dry naturally. Do not use external heat sources.
- Check regularly that all four gullet bolts and the two panel screws remain tight.
- Rapide Leathergel is readily available online. This is the only product we recommend for the care and maintenance of your Fairfax saddle.
