Bates Isabell Icon - the dressage saddle of dreams.
Who are Bates?
Bates Saddles is a well-known brand in the equestrian community, offering high-quality saddles that are designed to provide comfort and support for both horse and rider. Bates have been designing and manufacturing high-quality saddles for over 85 years. They are committed to innovation and are constantly pushing the boundaries in saddle design and technology. One of their most popular models is the Isabell Dressage Saddle, which has been specifically designed in collaboration with dressage champion Isabell Werth. In 2023 Bates were proud to launch the Isabell Icon, the latest revamp of the much loved Isabell Werth dressage saddle. This saddle features a deep seat, adjustable knee blocks, and a unique tree design that allows for greater freedom of movement for the horse. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the Isabell Icon Saddle from Bates Saddles and explore why it has become such a popular choice among dressage riders.
Isabell Werth
Isabell Werth is a true icon of equestrianism, the most decorated equestrian of all time. Isabell’s medal tally is unlikely to ever be rivalled and above all else, it is her horsemanship for which she is most respected.
Isabell’s saddle has been central to her journey. Many dressage riders share a personal connection with Isabell’s story through her saddle, renowned for offering an instant improvement to their riding position and confidence.
The Bates Isabell Icon is the ultimate high-performance dressage saddle; the culmination of over 35 years of Isabell’s competition experience and 90 years of saddle innovation. For Isabell, her saddle is her communicator with her horse; a second skin that must deliver connection, rider balance and horse comfort.
Isabell describes the iconic performance of this saddle in three simple words… constant, close and stable.
“Riders will feel perfect constant contact, seated closer to their horse than ever before, and with exceptional stability. You sit in the saddle and you are home.” - Isabell Werth
Customisation
One of the key features of the Bates Isabell Icon is its adjustability. The saddle features the EasyChange Fit Solution, which allows you to customise the fit to your horse’s unique shape and build.
This means that the saddle can be easily adjusted to accommodate different horses or changes in your horse’s body shape over time by utilising the Easy Change Gullet bars and Easy Change Riser sets.
Comfort
The Bates Isabell Icon is designed to be supremely comfortable for both horse and rider. The saddle features a deep seat with a narrow waist and large thigh blocks that provide maximum support and stability while allowing for a close contact feel. The saddle also features a unique panel system that evenly distributes pressure across the horse’s back, reducing the risk of soreness or injury.
Control
The Bates Isabell Icon also offers unparalleled control and communication between horse and rider. The saddle features a unique adjustable stirrup bar that allows you to customise the position of your stirrups for optimal balance and control. Additionally, the saddle features Luxe Leather. Luxe leather is simply the finest calf-leather in the world. You will immediately notice the soft elasticity, exceptional grip, beautiful depth of colour and strength, all of which make it the ultimate in comfort and prestige, allowing you to maintain optimal balance and position.
Comparison
Now we know this isn’t the first Bates Isabell Saddle to be launched, and whilst they may seem similar, there are some key differences between the two saddles, so let’s look at the differences in more detail!
One of the primary differences between the Bates Isabell and Bates Isabell Icon is the design of the seat. The Isabell Icon has an even deeper seat, offering even more support and comfort for the rider. You will feel as one with your horse rather than being perched on top of the saddle.
Another difference between the two saddles is the shape of the tree. The Bates Isabell features the traditional Bates Easy-Change Gullet System, which allows for easy adjustment of the saddle’s gullet width to fit a wide range of horses. The Bates Isabell Icon, however, features the new Bates Performance Panel, which is designed to distribute the rider’s weight evenly across the horse’s back and provide a more ergonomic fit for the horse. You will notice the difference in closeness with your horse which will undoubtedly increase the connection between you and your equine.
In terms of aesthetics, the Bates Isabell Icon also features a more modern and sleek design with the synergy panels for a closer feel, while the Bates Isabell has a more classic look.
Bates Isabell Icon Saddle
The Bates Isabell Icon saddle is available in the following size and colour options:
Colours: Classic Black and Classic Brown
Material: Luxe Leather
Sizes: 42cm (16.5”) / 43cm (17”) / 44cm (17.5”) / 46cm (18”)
Colour and size availability may vary. Please check The Saddle Bank's website for current stock.
If your size/colour is unavailable please contact our friendly team who will gladly order one in for you.
Conclusion
For dressage riders who demand the very best in comfort, customisation, and control, the Bates Isabell Icon is the ultimate saddle. Whether you’re a serious competitor or simply enjoy the art of dressage riding, this saddle will help you achieve your goals and ride to the best of your ability.
Trial The Bates Isabell Icon Saddle with The Saddle Bank
All Bates Saddles are sold with;
• Saddle inspection report so you know your saddle has been checked and inspected
• 6 month warranty on all secondhand saddles*
• Manufacturer’s warranty on all new saddles
• Guaranteed buy back price within 9 months**
• 5 Day UK Mainland Trial
• FREE ‘Secrets of Selling your Saddle’ eBook to help you sell your old saddles
• FAST delivery worldwide
• 1 hour delivery timeslot for UK mainland clients
• Tracking information provided for overseas clients
• Option to accessorise your saddle
• Friendly customer support team to help you answer any questions and queries
