How was the EQ saddle system developed and how long has it been around?
Our saddle system was invented by Barry Richardson, a master saddler in the UK. He was aware of the limitations of conventional saddle designs that used narrow seat designs, putting the rider's comfort before the horse, and believed there was a better way.
The system that became EQ was created in the 1990s, as soon as Barry was able to obtain a computerized pressure tool to use for saddle design. He employed the pressure testing system in two key ways: first to identify problems with existing saddles, and then to design something better. The result is EQFlex™: a flexible panel that provides a dynamic fit and spreads pressure over a large area so that our horses can work freely. The saddles we make today are only very slightly modernized from Barry's original concept.
The first saddles using EQFlex™ technology were sold in England in in the mid 1990s, and they've been in the US since 1997.
Prior to the invention of our flapless saddle platform, saddles using our EQFlex™ technology were sold under the brand “ReactorPanel™”, which primarily provided saddles to the top endurance riders all over the world. These riders chose our technology, since the fit and comfort for the horse were obviously superior. Other riders who demanded a closer feel of their horses' backs sometimes found these saddles too wide to be comfortable.
When we designed - and then patented - the flapless rider interface, we solved the final piece: we've kept the wider gullet channel that horses so enjoy, and added the hip flexion piece that makes riders so comfortable.
The What makes the EQ flexible panel saddle design different?
Conventional saddles have wool flocking, air bags, or pre-formed foam panels that are sewn pockets on the bottom of the saddle. When “fitted” they are placed on an immobile horse, and a saddle that appears to make maximum contact under the panels with adequate clearance over the wither is deemed to “fit”. Little or no consideration is given to what will happen to the saddle fit when the horse moves, but as soon as the horse moves, the back changes shape, and as soon as the rider sits in the saddle, it compresses and it also changes shape. Conventional saddles often exert high pressures on the horse that can occlude blood flow and damage tissue and the muscles beneath the saddle.
In a completely new design, the EQFlex™ panels are large, flexible foam panels which are superior for these reasons:
- The greater surface area means lower pressures throughout
- When the horse’s shoulder rotates, the panel moves completely out of the way, flexing into the gap between the panel and the tree
- The panels do not retain their shape (like pre-formed foam) but instead, break in to take on the shape of the horse they’re on, increasing the comfort even further
- In the rear, the panel takes on the true angle from spine to rib cage, unlike any other type of panel which often has high-pressure areas
Are EQ saddles high-quality?
Beginning with the leather, which is of the highest quality, and continuing through the assembly process conducted by master saddlers, EQ saddles are second to none in look, feel, quality, comfort, and durability. We know of a few saddles which are twenty years old, and still going strong. With no need to reflock, these saddles are nearly maintenance-free for many years, though we do recommend new panels every 5-10 years. We happily provide references from our long-term riders.
Do the shock absorbing discs make four high pressure points?
Many people assume that higher pressure exists under the discs. However, because the panel design spreads pressure outward in a horizontal plane, and because there is contact between the bottom of the saddle and the top of the panels, pressure points are eliminated when the saddle has been properly fit to the horse. Computerized pressure analysis bears this out as does an examination of a horse that has been ridden consistently in a EQ saddle. The horse’s muscular development and lack of back pain tell the whole story, and this video illustrates how the panels do not transfer focal pressures into the horse’s back: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSsJtWD8Fko
Will an EQ Saddle need regular adjustment?
If use of the EQ saddle is confined to one horse, the need for adjustment will be infrequent, as the EQ system automatically compensates for the normal seasonal changes in condition. The saddle will also work on similar types of horses with no need for adjustment. However, if your horse has muscle atrophy, is growing, or is undergoing major changes in musculature or condition, you may need to fine-tune the saddle more frequently.
What is the EQ Warranty?
EQ SADDLE SCIENCE WARRANTY This warranty applies to EQ Saddle Science saddles purchased and used in the U.S. and Canada only. It is the only express warranty for this product.
The EQ Saddle Science saddle is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship of a period of one year from the date of original purchase, with the exception of crystals and customer-provided materials, which are not warranted. The saddle tree is warranted for a period of five years.
Exclusions from warranty:
All other parts not mentioned above, specifically including but not limited to velcro and other fasteners; Variations in the dye or in the surface appearance of leather elements of the saddle are to be expected, and are not considered defects; Damage or excessive wear on the seat and skirts caused by riding in full seat breeches with a silicone seat.
During the warranty period, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the saddle or any component found to be defective, as determined by EQ Saddle Science, in its sole discretion. The customer is responsible for all shipping costs associated with returning the saddle to and from EQ Saddle Science’s California headquarters or designated location.
This warranty shall not apply to any products that have been repaired or altered by anyone other than EQ Saddle Science LLC, and does not cover wear from normal use, use not in conformity with the printed directions, or damage to the product resulting from accident, alteration, abuse, or misuse.
This warranty extends only to the original purchaser. Proof of purchase may be required to make a warranty claim. Should the purchaser believe that a different warranty was in place at the time of purchase, purchaser will be required to submit any warranty with terms different from this warranty.
Under no circumstances will EQ Saddle Science LLC be liable for any consequential cost, loss, injury or damage arising from the use of any saddle manufactured or sold.
To make a warranty claim, do not return this saddle to the saddle fitter. Call EQ Saddle Science at 510-422-2300 or email info@eqsaddlescience.com. For faster service, please provide the serial number on your saddle, which is stamped on the saddle, and also listed on your purchase receipt.
How do I care for and wash my EQ saddle pad?
Unlined Pads: Start with a cleansing product that gets dirt out, but is unscented and gentle on a horse’s skin, such as more natural or "free and clear" types of laundry detergent. For more stubborn stains, spot clean with a little bit of the detergent, taking care not to scrub too hard on the colored side of the pad.
Wash in cool or cold water, either by hand, or by machine using the low spin cycle if available. Line dry away from direct sunlight if possible. Front-loading laundry machines are far less likely to damage pads with piping on them than top-loading models. If using a top-loading machine, try washing in an extra-large laundry mesh bag designed for blankets or large items of clothing.
Sheepskin and Wool Fleece Lined Pads: Caring for your sheepskin briefly after each ride will reduce the need to wash the pad frequently. Shake out the pad and use a stiff brush to remove dirt and fluff up moist fibers. Hang damp pads up to dry in a location out of direct sunlight and away from artificial heat sources. Heat sources such as sunlight or radiators might dry out and stiffen the leather backing and cause shrinkage.
Please do not wash sheepskin pads if you’ve borrowed them from us for your riding trial. If you have purchased the pad, following these recommendations will extend its useful life.
A real sheepskin pad includes the actual skin, which is infused with lanolin (a natural oil found in sheep’s wool). Preserving the lanolin in your pad is important in order to keep the skin supple. If you use strong detergents or high temperatures, the lanolin may be washed out of the skin, which will cause it to become hard and stiff, and to shed its fleece.
Be sure to select a mild washing product that is designed for sheepskin. AVOID Woolite, as it contains harsh chemicals. Also stay away from most soaps, bleach, and most laundry detergents. The right product will be gentle and unscented; if in doubt, try using a low-sudsing shampoo designed for human hair. Spot cleaning or hand washing is recommended; if you do choose to use a washing machine, choose cool water and set on a gentle and low spin cycle. Be aware that agitators in some top-loading machines may cause stress or damage to your pad.
To dry, gently stretch and reshape the skin as needed, then hang to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Once dry, separate and fluff fibers by lightly brushing with a stiff brush or metal pet brush.
Where is the serial number of my EQ saddle?
The EQ serial number is a code of letters and numbers. We typically use only the final 4 digits of the code as the saddle's serial number.
Based on the year and model, you can find the serial number of your EQ saddle in one of the following locations
- On a leather tag below the stirrup bar on the left side of the saddle
- On the bottom of the Y-billet leather triangle, either left side, right side, or both sides
- On dual-flapped saddles, the serial number is located on the sweat flap
- On Monoflap saddles, the serial number is located on the back side of the sweat flap.
What is the return policy for purchases in the EQ Store?
Any item that has been recently purchased may be returned if it is not used, subject to the following conditions:
Purchase must have been within the past 60 days. Item must be new, unused, and in the original intact packaging for 100% refund of the purchase price (excluding shipping costs). Shipping charges are not eligible for refund. If the package has been opened or damaged, there is a 15% restocking fee. If the item is used or damaged, it may not be returned unless it is defective. Refund will be issued after the item has been returned, received, and inspected. Return shipping charges are the responsibility of the customer. Refund will be back to the original form of payment, or may be taken as a credit on account if the customer so requests.
To return, send the item to:
EQ Saddle Science 346 Rheem Blvd., Suite 105 Moraga, CA 94556
Note: CUSTOM items cannot be returned, though in some cases, we may be able to assist in finding a buyer.