Can CAIR saddles be adjusted?
In this article we will discuss all about CAIR Saddles and if and how they can be adjusted. This blog should help give you a broader understanding of CAIR Saddles and whether one might be 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 301488 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?
Saddles with CAIR systems is where traditional flocking is replaced by two independent air panels. These mould to the horse and can change with the horses muscle structure. These systems for the rider mean that the weight can be more evenly distributed. In flocked saddles there is a risk of direct pressure points, where the wool can get balled up.
CAIR systems are exclusive to Arena, Wintec and Bates saddles. See our previous blogs for more detail on their systems and what our opinion of these CAIR systems saddles!
Can CAIR saddles be adjusted?
At The Saddle Bank we believe in every product we sell. These CAIR systems are no exception. These saddles are affordable, but also very cost effective due to the adjustment systems they have in place. It is important to note though, unfortunately the CAIR panels themselves can’t be adjusted and adding flocking to a CAIR saddle will risk damaging the CAIR panels. However, there are 2 adjustable systems on these saddles which can be done by yourselves, unlike a flocked saddle which can only be adapted by a professional.
The Easy Change Gullet Bar:
We say it a lot, but be aware horses change shape, like us, we don’t stay the same shape all year round (wouldn’t that be nice?). Horses muscle and weight is dependent on their workload. Young horses in particular are constantly developing. We don’t want your young horse to think negatively when in work, which they can feel if they are uncomfortable.
If you purchase one of these saddles with a CAIR system, you have the bonus of the easy change gullet bar. The gullet is the tunnel underneath the fork which rides over your horses withers. The design of the fork and the angle of the bars of the saddle determine the width and height of the gullet. The easy change gullet bar is a metal bar which can be changed to suit your horse. We would recommend getting a saddle fitter to come out and see what changes need to be done on your saddle.
To see how you measure your horse to change your gullet bar check out our handy how to blog here.
Of course, we stock these gullet bars at a brilliant price, so check them out today by clicking here.
If you are wanting to adjust your saddle, you will need to understand the different colours and measurements. Don’t worry, we have you covered with super handy Gullet Gauge available here!
The Easy Change Riser System
This is a system to aid more support to horse and rider. These risers are available in front, centre, and rear. They come in pairs and with a different thickness for each. For example, jump and pony saddles feature a finer panel and may require you to trim the risers along the length of the centre edge in order to neatly close the riser pocket. The vast majority of Arena, Bates and Wintec saddles will feature these saddle-fitting systems as standard.
The easy change riser, standard pack contains a total of 10 pairs of risers. What is great about these two adjustable systems is that they are totally reversible.
For more information on how to fit the easy change riser system, check out this super helpful blog here.
If you are looking for the complete Easy Change Riser pack it is available with us here. The complete pack contains 10 pairs of risers; 4 different widths of the front and rear risers and 2 widths of centre risers!
If you have a pony saddle or a jump saddle (or a pony jump saddle!) then the Pony/Jump pack is for you! This pack contains 6 pairs of small risers; two widths in front risers, centre risers and rear risers simply click here.
For a starter pack, which contains 6 pairs of risers simply click this link! The starter pack like the Pony/Jump pack contains front, centre and rear risers in two widths suitable for AP, GP or Dressage saddles.
Easy change gullet system + Easy change riser system = Easy change fit solution!
These saddles have really thought of everything. We stock over 1200 saddles, click here to find your next saddle today!
Want to try one?
Are you looking for your next adjustable saddle or would you like to try a CAIR saddle? Why not trial one via The Saddle Bank
The Saddle Bank offer 5 Day Trials on all Quality Used saddles to UK customers. Therefore, you can try the saddle before committing to keeping it.
Full details on our trial policy can be found here.
Are you from outside of the UK? No problem. The Saddle Bank offers international shipping.
