My Saare and Pandur foxhunting saddles are worn out and I'm planning to purchase a 2nd horse, all of which helped me to take the plunge..and get a black Lewis & Clarke. I've been using it for 2 months now and although Shiloh loved it from the start, for me having a different (further back and therefore better) leg position took a bit of getting used to - but now I love it and feel very secure in the saddle. On a 4 hr very hilly and demanding training riding near Front Royal last weekend, I found Charlotte was right - the Ansür stays in place no matter what the terrain, even w/o a breast collar or crupper. Shiloh has never had any rubs or galls (I use a Skito pad and Wintec girth).

After winning the Biltmore 80 miler in May, Shiloh is getting ready to tackle a 2-day 100miler in Kentucky on June 22&23. I plan to use the Ansür at least one of those days -- putting it to the ultmiate test on those twisty, turny trails. The is the same course as the 100 mile National Championships for endurance in October, and the lighter weight of the Ansür will be a big help for both of us since you typically untack and re-tack at vet checks least 8 times during a 100 miler! I'll report back on how we fare.

To summarize: the Ansür was worth every penny because the quality workmanship means it will last forever and I now need only 1 saddle instead of 2 -- it's elegant enough for foxhunting, light and secure enough for demanding trail riding -- and the very best saddle for working on those fundamentals (dressage/ring work).

When I eventually purchase a 2nd horse to specialize in endurance, I'm confident the Ansür will give this young guy a great introduction to long hours in the saddle!

Best Wishes,"

Mary

Please note: As of April, 2004, the Lewis and Clark is no longer in production. It has been replaced by the Classic or Amigo Ansür with the deluxe padding system and added D rings.