Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular saddle. There is provided a saddle having a saddle tree unit, a saddle flap unit and a panel unit, wherein the panel unit and saddle flap unit are removably securable to the saddle tree unit. The flap unit comprises two flap components each having a sweat flap and saddle flap. Each flap component is removable from the saddle tree in one piece. The panel unit includes plates, which extend the bearing surface of the saddle tree, and prevent the formation of pressure points. In another aspect of the present invention there is provided a flexible tree made from a polyurethane resin. The tree further includes a Y-shaped carbon fibre strengthening bar, which enables the tree to flex laterally, but not longitudinally.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in or relating to saddle cloths, pads or numnahs, particularly for horses. In one aspect, there is described a saddlecloth comprising a sheet material having a longitudinal spine (81) defining left and right saddlecloth sections; wherein each section includes at least one pocket (84, 85) housing at least one cushioning element comprising a bladder (30,31) and resilient element (38), wherein the bladder (30) is formed of a substantially inelastic material and is adapted for inflation and deflation with air or other fluid medium. Preferably, the pocket (84) in each section is a longitudinally elongate and houses two or more bladders (30, 31) dimensioned so as to overlap within the pocket (84) such that, when inflated, the bladders (30, 31) present a substantially uniform thickness. A modification for a saddlecloth for a side-saddle is also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in or relating to saddle cloths, pads or numnahs, particularly for horses. In one aspect, there is described a saddlecloth comprising a sheet material having a longitudinal spine (81) defining left and right saddlecloth sections; wherein each section includes at least one pocket (84, 85) housing at least one cushioning element comprising a bladder (30,31) and resilient element (38), wherein the bladder (30) is formed of a substantially inelastic material and is adapted for inflation and deflation with air or other fluid medium. Preferably, the pocket (84) in each section is a longitudinally elongate and houses two or more bladders (30, 31) dimensioned so as to overlap within the pocket (84) such that, when inflated, the bladders (30, 31) present a substantially uniform thickness. A modification for a saddlecloth for a side-saddle is also described.