The Bates Versa introduces cutting edge performance features never before seen in an all purpose saddle. A close contact, yet open seat ensures you feel free to move in the saddle, while the Adjustable Ergonomic Stirrup Bar and FlexiContourbloc deliver unparalleled security through perfect rider alignment, making this saddle so versatile. Balance is effortless and enhanced with a movable front FlexiContourbloc and a surprisingly effective thigh support bloc. For riders who enjoy all aspects of riding, both in and out of the arena, this saddle delivers revolutionary comfort and confidence.
The Ergonomic Stirrup Bar enables the roller of the tongue on the buckle to be recessed into the bar and sit flush, which significantly reduces the bulk under your leg, by at least one thickness of leather. The girthing system achieves greater strength and durability and improves the distribution of pull from the front and back of the saddle to increase comfort and saddle stability. Experience the power of innovation with instantaneous comfort, security and balance, ensuring the most luxurious seat for leisure riding, flatwork and some jumping.
The Bates All Purpose saddles feature all of the innovations and technology synonymous with high performance discipline saddles.
Available in Black or Brown in 16.5', 17', 17.5' or 18'Your horse will show a marked improvement in their freedom of movement, as world leading performance systems the EASY-CHANGE Fit Solution and CAIR Cushion System maximise your horse’s comfort and freedom of movement. Your horse will enjoy unsurpassed adaptability for an optimal fit, even weight distribution and fluid cushioning for their total comfort.
These saddles are sold as standard with a Medium width (Black) Easy Change Gullet. All other gullet sizes from Narrow to Extra Wide are available on our separate listing and are sold separately.
We strongly recommend fitting these saddles under the guidance of a Bates trained saddler. Please see the Bates site for a full list of approved saddlers in your area.
When trying on your saddle please ensure you use a clean saddlecloth and do not remove any tags. Saddles which have had the tags removed, been sat on, girthed up, ridden on or show any signs of use cannot be returned.
Saddle Fitting Information
After your initial saddle fit, we recommend that you have the fit of your saddle checked within the first three months, as it will settle in the head during the initial riding period, as is standard with all new saddles. Following this initial settling in period, your saddle fit should then be assessed every six months throughout your saddle’s life to ensure the saddle continues to fit correctly, as your horse changes shape according to its age, level of fitness and work program. It is always recommended that you seek ongoing professional advice on your horse’s saddle fit, where possible. However the following information can assist you in not only assessing your horse’s saddle fit, but understanding when simple adjustments should be made.
In order to check the clearance, bearing and balance of a saddle, it is important that the saddle is positioned correctly. All fitting adjustments and saddle alterations should be made in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Ensure your horse is standing square and is on level ground. Locate your horse’s shoulder and check to see that the nail of the saddle is approximately three fingers distance from the edge of your horse’s shoulder.
Checking for sufficient clearance
Sufficient clearance of your horse’s wither, across the width and length of the spine, should be maintained at all times. Check to see that the channel of the saddle is clear of your horse’s wither and spine through the length of the saddle.
Checking for even bearing
Your saddle should bear evenly on your horse’s back, providing a close fit. Run your hand between your horse and the panel of your saddle to check for even bearing. If your saddle features the CAIR Cushion System, it is important that a rider sits in the saddle to check the bearing, as the air becomes dynamic under the rider’s weight.
Checking for a balanced seat
Check that the deepest part of the saddle seat is central and level to ensure perfect saddle balance. Should your saddle require further adjustments select the optimal combination of EASY-CHANGE Risers to achieve sufficient clearance, even bearing and perfect balance.
NB. The innovative systems in our saddles offer unsurpassed flexibility in achieving an optimal fit, however, no one saddle can claim to fit any horse. It is always recommended you seek ongoing professional advice on the fit and in meeting the unique needs of each horse/rider combination.
We are one of the largest independent retailers of Bates in the UK and a verified premium stockist giving us access to the entire range. Our sales advisors all use these products on a daily basis so are able to offer you expert advice. If you need any assistance in selecting the right item for you or your horse please don't hesitate to contact us.