Are panels supposed to flex?- pics

[aquaseafoam]

Just got a used saddle off ebay, and I feel really silly BUT I don't know if the front panel is supposed to be flexible or not. Seems like it should, for the horses movement- but why didn't i ever notice it before??
Thanks!
Pics of my saddle:

[connieD]

im no saddle expert but it looks like its flexing after the point of the tree. looks like there is very little flocking in there and it may need replacing.

ask your saddler to have a look and check tree etc as a precaution as it is a used saddle. i woulnt be overly concerned though, may just need a re flock about £35.

if it was bending in the middle of the seat then you would have a problem!!

[Wally]

There will be no flock in that panel it's a whippy/foam panel, you cannot reflock them, The only way you can change the shape is make a whole new panel.

It is flexing at the point of the tree, nothing to worry about.

I hate to say this but the palens look laced in squint? are they or is it the angle of the photo?

[aquaseafoam]

Sorry, I don't know what squint is? How can i tell?
It is a Miller's Lancers all purpose saddle.

[aquaseafoam]

Ok, another question or two ;)
If it is flexing at the point of the tree, does that mean it is ok- its supposed to be like that? Does it need the panels replaced?
What is squint, and what is wrong with it?
Sorry I don't know much about saddles :o
I am just waiting to leave feedback, or contact the seller if there is something wrong with the saddle- it was described as in great condition.

[freeformuk]

There is supposed to be a standard in place for all British made saddlery that they have to test for correct symmetry. So I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks the front of your saddle looks squint (crooked). If you look at the first photo and the shading in the gullet, it looks off-set to the panels. It may be a trick of the photo but I don't think so. Would seriously recommend you get this checked out by a good saddler because in the long run, if it's not right it could prove detrimental to you and your horse.

[unicornleather]

You can bulk these foam panels up a tad Wally, you have to cut a piece of seat foam to shape and insert and glue it in between the tree and the top of the panel, as long as it's not too thick it will work.I have done loads in the past with no problems, of course if it needs too much, then as you say, a new panel will need to be made.
Oz :)

[Wally]

Agree, but it's not the happiest fix in the world.

There is supposed to be a standard in place for all British made saddlery that they have to test for correct symmetry. So I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks the front of your saddle looks squint (crooked). If you look at the first photo and the shading in the gullet, it looks off-set to the panels. It may be a trick of the photo but I don't think so. Would seriously recommend you get this checked out by a good saddler because in the long run, if it's not right it could prove detrimental to you and your horse.


Or..........you could do what a top instructor advised one of her pupils, "Take some dodgy pictures of it and put it on Ebay! "

[Wally]

The panel is fine flexing where it is.

I would nip it to a good saddler, just to have look and make sure the panels are straight and not "squint" before leaving your feedback. Unless you have any good clear photos of the front and back of the saddle looking along the gullet. But it really is hard to see in pictures.