CAIR Saddles are they good?
In this article we will discuss CAIR saddles and their advantages. We will give you an overview into what CAIR is and the brands and models it is found in to give you the best information to help you decide if a CAIR saddle is suitable for you and your horse.
If you are still a bit confused about which saddle or any saddle related product is best for you why not get in touch with our friendly customer support team. Via phone on 01733 301 488 or email info@thesaddlebank.com. Our lovely team are always happy to help as much as they can and provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for you and your horse.
What is a CAIR system?
CAIR is a signature feature of Bates, Wintec and Arena saddles, all of which are part of the Saddlery Brands International family. The CAIR system replaces traditional flocking, by utilising a rubber bag containing a sponge and air to evenly distribute the riders weight over the horses back.
The Research Development Team at Bates Australia spent many years refining and perfecting techniques for incorporating an air cushion in a saddle. CAIR panels are exclusive to Arena, Bates and Wintec saddles, and each saddle has 2 independently seated air cushions within each panel!
What are the advantages of CAIR saddles?
There are many advantages to these saddles, with the main reason being it replaces traditional flocking with air. This simplistic design means that there is no chance of pressure points building up, which can happen with traditional saddles. CAIR not only provides cushioning; it also constantly adapts to the horse muscles. The CAIR panels are able to distribute the riders weight evenly across the horses back. For the horse, with an evenly distributed rider on their backs, and the CAIR panels moulding around their muscles means they can move freely, with no restricted blood flow. This in turn aids muscle developement and allows freedom of movement. With the Easy Change Rider system, and the changeable gullet bars, it also means you can adapt your saddle according to your horse by changing the gullet bar and inserting the Easy Change Riser shims into the saddle panels for a customer fit.
To get yourself an easy change riser system, click on this link.
Check out this blog on how to change your saddle with the easy change riser system.
If you feel your gullet bar needs changing, but you are unsure on which one you need, click on this link.
A saddle fitters perspective on CAIR
Here, at The Saddle Bank, we love Wintec, Bates and Arena saddles. They are easy to fit and completely customisable. The Easy Change Risers mean that any alterations made to the panels are exact in measurement (by using the 4mm, 8mm, 12mm or 16mm shim) and completely reversable should the horse change shape and the shim need removing. The gullet bars are easy to change and come in a range of widths.
The CAIR panels are low maintenence, and unlike a traditional wool flocked panel which needs reflocking every 2 years, the CAIR panels will last year after year with a guarantee of 5 years.
The adjustability, affordability and full range of saddles across these 3 brands makes them a great choice for any rider, whether you are a happy hacker, 3* eventer of PSG dressage rider, there is a model for you.
Speak to our friendly team of experts for advice on which model may work best for you and your horse by contacting us here.
How do you get a CAIR saddle?
At The Saddle Bank, we only stock saddles which we truly believe in. Of course, these saddles made it. We have over 1200 saddles available, so we have no doubt we have one for you! CAIR systems are available in certain saddles, so simply click on what brand you want using the links below!
The Saddle Bank offer 5 day UK mainland trials on all saddles. Fast worldwide shipping options are also available.
View Bates saddles for sale.
View Wintec saddles for sale.
View Arena saddles for sale.
Sell your CAIR panel saddle
Have you got a CAIR saddle that you are looking to sell? Get in touch with our super friendly team by filling in our Sell A Saddle form here! Our quotes team will be in touch within 24 hours with a quote for you. Don't forget to check your spam or junk folder in case our reply ends up in there.
