Icelandic Horse Connection
Tack Dealers
Benni Harmony Saddles
The Benni's Harmony has a specially designed spring tree. Although the tree is made of synthetic material which is both strong and durable, the saddle remains flexible. An open frame consisting of springs and fastened with a wide nylon cord allow the saddle to stretch and spread where needed, both cross-wise and diagonally. This type of tree has been termed "pre-tensioned" because pull and pressure forces work together. The movements of the horse and weight of the rider cause the tree to flex. The saddle conforms to the horse’s back due to the suppleness of the spring tree and the fact that the deepest point of the saddle is in the middle. This prevents unnecessary back strain, or even injury, to the horse caused by pressure points.
A short girth made of strong, soft synthetic material comes with every saddle. The billets on the Harmony are long and buckles are below the panels which enable the rider to maintain close contact with the horse through the calves and thighs. A special Benni's Harmony girth system has been designed to ensure the correct placement of the girth in respect to the horse’s build. When the girth is fastened it is positioned at approximately the width of a hand from the horse’s front legs. This, along with a design which enables good weight distribution, contributes to the fact that the Harmony sits well on the horse and doesn’t pinch the horse or hinder its breathing.
Kneepads are placed high beneath the side panels to give support to the rider's thighs, while leaving the knees free. Kneepads are stuffed with natural wool and have plenty of space between them, minimizing any risk of rubbing along the horse's spine.
When the girth is in place then so is the saddle. The correct position of the saddle is about 3-4 cm behind the shoulder blades of the horse. This saddle position ensures the shoulders are free. Another factor which contributes to the rider’s good seat is the spring tree. When the saddle is fastened the back of the saddle is approximately 2.5 cm higher than the highest point on the front. This prevents the rider from sitting too far back and places him/her directly above the horse’s center of balance, in the middle of the saddle. This is the key to why the spring tree works so well.
Harmony saddles are available in two different models: Harmony "All-round" and Harmony "Elegant".
The "All-round" model is rather deep and gives the rider a secure seat in all gaits without restricting movement. In comparison, the seat on the "Elegant" is narrower and not quite as deep, without being flat. With the horse’s comfort and safety in mind both saddles are equally suitable. They both have the same spring tree, one is merely shaped differently than the other. Both types are multi-purpose and can therefore be used in all areas of riding, whether it be training, trail riding or competition. The choice between the two types is a matter of the rider’s taste.
The leather used in Benni's Harmony saddles consists of top quality cowhide. By using the newest technology along with over a hundred years of tradition in the tanning and leather handling business, the manufacturer produces a top quality leather with beautiful texture and distinctive markings. The leather is dyed according to European standards concerning environmental protection. The Harmony saddle is available in both dark brown and black.
In addition, a version of the saddle with water buffalo leather in the seat and kneepads and special leather in the panels is available in black and grayish-brown.
Saddles come in 3 different sizes, the width of the front of the tree varies to fit different needs. Most horses require the mid-size version. Horses with especially narrow or wide shoulders may need the other sizes. Every saddle comes with a girth and a saddle cover.
Benedikt Líndal, in collaboration with a world famous saddle-maker in Switzerland, has succeeded in designing and producing a saddle of the highest quality and durability. A soft, pliable saddle which provides comfort to both horse and rider, enhancing the performance of both.
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