What kind of saddle...

[Vibe]

Would I buy if I were looking to start some basic english riding lessons?
I am not concerned about the fit forthe horse or me at this moment, just the basic idea of what would be the best choice. Then if I find the right kind of saddle fitting would come into play.. I am new at this so, would something like this be good to learn on, and maybe occasional rides etc..
http://cgi.ebay.com/Wintec-500-Cair-17-5-Black-English-Riding-Horse-Saddle_W0QQitemZ120320963505QQcmdZViewItem?hash=it em120320963505&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C 240%3A1318

[cloedoll]

To start out, I would say an All Purpose (like the one you posted) would do just fine. Since you are just starting, you won't be too sure if you are going to want to jump, event, dressage, etc. AP's work fine for 3' and under jumps I would say. They are very nice for trail rides, too. However, if you primarily ride on trails, a dressage saddle is real nice for that because they are so comfy! I don't know how to explain what I'm thinking, but basically since you aren't sure if you are sticking with English or what you primarily want to do (hunters, dressage, etc.) I wouldn't want to invest in a saddle and have it go to waste. An AP will serve just fine for flatwork, trail riding, light jumping, some dressage. Gah, that made little sense. The saddle you posted, I bet you could find it for cheaper, hehe.

[alittleoffkey]

I'd recommend probably that very saddle. :) If you get serious soon, look at the Farmers Market Bulletin (it's online too) and see what's for sale in there... right now a lot of people are probably trying to get rid of tack and horses before the winter months, to save on feed and for Christmas money! ;)

[FredRock]

A Wintec 500 will suit you fine. All purposes can pretty much do anything.

You can probably find it a little cheaper in big stores though, although I guess it wouldn't come with the fittings...

[zoel_222]

When I saw this thread I was like, oh she should go with the Wintec 500! Then I saw that's the saddle you were thinking of! HA! :D That's a great saddle for starting English. I had the same one and loved it dearly. STILL kicking myself that I sold it. BTW, that saddle does NOT "retail for $795" you can get it brand new right here (http://www.chicksaddlery.com/page/CDS/PROD/3000/WSX500) for $439 with free shipping.

Oops didn't realize the one on ebay came with stirrups and everything. That's a better deal :D Whatever you do, don't get one without CAIR. The flocking is terrible.

[WashingtonBay]

I have a Wintec 500 - no CAIR, have had it about 8 years and use it on trail, and it still looks new. It's held up wonderfully.

http://www.baywindfarm.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=194&pictureid=1695

[zoel_222]

Really you like the ones without CAIR, WB? I find them uncomfortable. To each her own I suppose :)

[cloedoll]

I highly recommend you purchase the saddle from here (http://hitchingposttack.com/product_info.php?cPath=4_76&products_id=133). It is beyond a deal.