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Saddle Testimonials
The thing I value most about your saddles is how
well they can fit a diverse range of horses and don’t damage their ever
so delicate backs. At some events my sister and I
have 6 horses between us and it’s amazing how we can just throw your
saddle from her horses to my horses without erratic padding changes. I
can spend hours in this saddle and never get sore from sitting in it. It
is great for mustering, especially in the valleys and hills. I really
enjoy riding in my Kent saddle and so do all of my horses and that is
always my main concern. I was also very pleased with your
service and correspondence throughout the making of my saddle; this is
paramount to getting the saddle you want. As our horse herd is
expanding I can see I will be looking to Kent Saddlery again in the
future to equip our horses. Yours Sincerely, Sammy Ghent
I borrowed his saddle for a while and
just loved it. I really liked the cable rigging and the saddle design
and it has stayed in really good condition. I had also heard great
things about Kent Saddles so I purchased one and am extremely happy with
my investment.
My husband and I both enjoy riding and we compete in a few local
campdrafts in central Queensland. I find the saddle great for
campdrafting, especially with the cable rigging, as the saddle easily
fits a number of horses. We also do a bit of mustering for the family at
Boonah and at Theodore. Whether it’s in the hills or on flat
country the saddle is comfortable and reliable. I am extremely happy
with the saddle I purchased from Kent Saddlery.
Thank you Daniel for your excellent workmanship which is faultless in every respect; leather quality, stitching, attention to detail and design. Thanks Lyle, your service is first rate….. this is a company that really listens to the customer.
I only need a thin Kersey wool blanket for Beau and I have used the
saddle on two other horses; with a little more padding as they are not
as wide through the shoulders as Beau. Both horses were comfortable with
the new saddle. I have done one endurance ride and I am impressed with
the feel of the saddle. The cable rigging sets the saddle in the “sweet spot."
Once girthed up the saddle doesn’t move even though the girth loosens
as the ride progresses. I would certainly recommend a Kent Saddle with
the Cable Rigging to any prospective buyer.
Endurance riding is my hobby and complements my love for Arabian horses which I have been breeding since 1990.
I am retired and live in the foothills of Mount Roland at Paradise
and my training is in forestry plantations, which offers me a variety of
terrains. Formed roads, steep rocky tracks, streams, soft pine needle
tracks and the occasional trip to the beach are ideal training grounds
for endurance horses. Endurance competitions are held at many different locations in Tasmania and I have taken a horse to the Tom Quilty ride in Victoria. On October 6th 2012 I qualified my stallion Bellawongarah Beau as an endurance horse while using the Kent Western Drafter saddle which was custom made for him.
In 2012 Joe and Annie shifted to Nerrima Station, near Derby, WA
where they were both working in the stock camp, and loving it. Mick
Courtney, manager at Nerrima, was providing opportunities for Joe to try
“all sorts of things”, including grader work, road train driving, as
well as teaching him and other stock camp team members horse handling
and horse work skills. Joe concludes, “Its been fantastic and
beneficial.”
At the end of 2011, when Joe believed that he’d sufficiently trialled
the cattle station experience, he started to set himself up for a career
in the industry “I had a look around at all sorts of saddles, and I
talked to people. Everyone had a Kent saddle, with riding histories of
two to fifteen years. Joe purchased an Equaliser Western Drafter
Slimline Saddle early in 2012 and when Lyle and Helen visited in July,
he remained satisfied with his saddle. “Its still going strong……. I
really like it, and I’m sure it will give me year after year of quality
service." Aaron Jensen, Headstockman, Iffley Station, QLD Gulf
Equaliser Western Drafter Slimline Saddle “A good little tub.”
Aaron Jensen was born in
Ravenshoe, North QLD and raised on his parents' dairy farm. His working
life has been spent in places in and around his home town and the QLD
Gulf and Cape York. As is often the case with many ringers, Mt Isa, and
the mines has also been a place and source of employment for a period of
time.
He grins when he reports that “When I got the saddle and was reading
about saddle care, it said to wash it and I thought “What? I’ve NEVER
washed a saddle before! But washing it does keep it good. I’ve done some
big days, some fast days….. it’s a b…….. good little tub.” Paul Cave, Curragh Lodge, Warwick Farm, NSW Equaliser Southern Drafter Saddle
I am sometimes in my saddle for up to four or five hours a day and the
saddle has been on a variety of horses, from small stock horses to big
Irish Sport and Clydy crosses. I have not had one sore backed horse and
as for myself, I feel secure and comfortable in the saddle. The saddle
is tough and long lasting.
I have recommended Kent Saddlery to all my friends. Regards Paul Cave Jacqui Sharkey, Bannockburn VIC Western Drafter Slimline Saddle  “The DVD really helped put my mind at ease”
a saddle without actually sitting in it, but the DVD really helped put my mind at ease. I have not bought a saddle for over ten years, so I was a little nervous. But the Kent Saddle is comfortable and very well made it fits my horse and me so well. I really appreciate the work gone into making the saddle and the effort Kent Saddlery has gone to ensure a correct fit. For over 15 years my husband and I have had a passion for riding in the High Country. We worked for Jack Lovick on his Mountain Safari’s for about 5 or 6 years and enjoyed every second. We now live adjacent to 400 acres of bush and we take advantage of that as much as we can. About six years ago we decided to treat ourselves to some young quarter horses and while they were being trained we took a long awaited holiday with our two young children. Unfortunately, upon our return we were informed that both had been injured and subsequently had to be euthanized – 2 weeks apart. I couldn’t bring myself to ride for some time after that. I have only recently brought Evie, a 3yo quarter horse filly. She is such a quiet gentle horse so when she started bucking I knew something was not right. My saddle didn’t fit her and I needed a new one and with a young horse I couldn’t wait for months and months. Kent Saddlery was my saviour. They were the only saddlers that could guarantee the saddle would fit my horse and they would make sure it did. They didn’t have a six month wait like most of the other saddlers. It is a bit daunting ordering a saddle over the phone, without actually being able to physically see it, but I was assured by Kent Saddlery that I would be more than happy with it. I didn’t have the time nor the money to muck around so after watching the DVD, reading the testimonials and talking to the boys at Kent Saddlery, I took some measurements and photos and I ordered my Western Drafter Slimline. It didn’t take long and I received a call that it was ready. I have never had a fender saddle and I loved it from the moment I saw it. It is lightweight and so comfortable – from day one. Most importantly it fits Evie and she is happy. I know I have made the right choice and will continue to enjoy my riding for many years to come. I cannot recommend Kent Saddlery enough – they make a great Australian made saddle. Thanks Jacqui and Evie Jack Traeger, Currency Creek, SA
Child/Youth Saddle “Station worker in training” Hi Sally,
First of all I want to thank you very much for all of your help with our saddle – Jack absolutely loves it and I can ride in it on his horse which saves me having to swap saddles! It is very comfortable; we have followed all of the care instructions and it has come up beautifully. Jack says the hole in the front of the saddle is the best thing ever, as it gives him “ball room” when he’s cutting out cattle, a problem that seemed to regularly have him lost for words and hunched over in his old saddle! Thanks again, Regards Tanya Traeger
Dalton Smith, Kilcoy QLD
Kent Campdrafter Saddle
 Dolton Riding Miss Fit in his Kent Campdrafter
“Following in my Grandfather’s footsteps”
What a great saddle! Dolton has competed in three camp drafts since purchasing your saddle, and has notched up one 1st, one 2nd, and one 3rd. He also uses it for mustering and working his campdraft mare. He’s had a lot of positive comments about his saddle, and has had no problems with the cable rigging. He will be riding in the saddle next year in juvenile drafts, so we hope he keeps up the good work. He loves his Kent Saddle, and we are extremely happy with your product.
Nicky Smith Daltons Mum My name is Dalton Smith and I am 13 years of age. I was born into a cattle working family in a small country town called Kilcoy in QLD, and I have ridden horses for as long as I can remember. We have a 500 acre property on Mt Kilcoy Creek and we also lease more land at Bellthorpe, near Maleny, QLD. At Bellthorpe we muster all day. I use the same saddle and it’s very comfortable. My quarter horse mare, Miss Fit, also has no complaints. I followed in my grandfather’s footsteps and decided to try campdrafting. I got my new saddle for Christmas 2010, and have competed in three junior drafts since then. I was featured in the June/ July Australian Campdrafting Magazine with me and my new saddle. I find this saddle is very comfortable, and now also I consider it a “lucky charm”, especially given my results so far. Cassandra Kath, Mt Leonard Station, Channel Country, QLD Child/Youth Saddle  “Being Free”
Lyle and Helen have known Cassandra since she was a little tot, and suddenly in 2011, she’s in the last year of Primary Education.
Cassandra, her sister Leah, and brother Jacob, live at Mt Leonard Station near Birdsville, QLD, and with their parents Chook and Lorraine Kath, they lead very busy lives. (See the 2010 Mt Leonard story on the Kent Saddlery website; also Lorraine’s website www.photographybylorrainekath.com) Cassandra loves “being free on Mt Leonard. I can go anywhere and it’s got space. I can run, and ride!” She mostly rides on her horse, “Gidgee,” and together they’re a winning combination. Cassandra happily admits “I love competing,” and her riding skill has resulted in accolades for women’s, as well as children’s events. She was awarded third place in the Stockmans Challenge at Windorah in July 2011, and was judged the leading rider at Betoota. Cassandra has been riding in her own Kent Saddle for almost a year, and when she’s away at boarding school in Townsville in 2012, she’ll undoubtedly miss being able to saddle up when she feels like it, to gallop off down to the nearby water hole, and beyond! It will be a vastly different way of life from the one she knows so well. However, this bright, adaptable girl is aware of the advantages of going to boarding school, and she is prepared. “I’m looking forward to it." In 2010, 2011 and 2012 Kent Saddlery has been involved with the Queensland Country Life in a joint promotional “Draw Competition” conducted over a period of six weeks. We provide a prize which consists of a Saddle and a selection of Kent Saddlery Products. Rachael Ferling was the 2011 winner:
Rachael Ferling, Quilpie Qld Western Drafter Slimline Saddle  Rachael playing polocrosse riding Hottie “Superior customer service”
I have one word to describe my new Kent saddle and that is “BRILLIANT!” I was fortunate enough to win the 2011 Kent Saddlery competition in the QLD Country Life, and I chose to receive the Equaliser Western Drafter Slimline Saddle.
This saddle is everything I imagined a custom made Kent Saddle would be, plus more. The staff at Kent Saddlery are brilliant; I feel that the superior customer service is thorough and very customised to the individual. Daniel made my saddle, and I felt very sorry for him when I sometimes rang 3 times in a day to ‘customise’ my saddle. As I have absolutely NO experience with saddle making, Daniel was very professional and patient, and thoroughly explained everything I asked. I only began riding in 2008 (being taught by some very patient and close friends of mine) Having lived in Quilpie for a year and wanting to try something new, I saw an ad on a notice board asking for polocrosse players. I approached the club and said I would have a go, but had to learn how to ride a horse first. Once I felt I was ‘ok’ on a horse I was given a polocrosse racket and ball and told to “have fun and hang on!” I began to learn how to play polocrosse with the Quilpie Polocrosse Club in 2010, and it is now a passion of mine. It just so happened that luck was on my side, as I survived the season and went on to win the 2011 Country Life Kent Saddlery Competition. This saddle was made to suit my gelding; however I have ridden several others horses in the saddle, and ensuring that padding was ample, I have had a successful and comfortable ride every time. I have used my saddle for polocrosse, mustering cattle, and pleasure riding, and it has proved to be comfortable and fantastic every time. It has been easy to care for, and now, having been used for quite some time, it still looks immaculate. I put this down to the expertise of the Kent Saddlery staff who make this product, deliver it, and then follow up with care and questions that ensure that their customers get the best out of their saddles. I want to give a huge thank you to Lyle and Helen for running the competition, also a big thank you to Daniel (my ‘patient’ saddle maker), and all the other staff at Kent Saddlery who made my experience great. If anyone asks me what I think of my new Kent Saddle, I say that one word “Brilliant”, and would recommend Kent Saddlery every time. Don Cross, Roma, Qld Kent Campdrafter  “No sore spots, no sore back horses”
Firstly I would like to thank Daniel and the team at Kent Saddlery for making my saddle in such a very quick time. I was having trouble with my other saddle. I work at the sale yards at Roma which is the biggest sale yards in Australia. I’m in my saddle up to 14 - 18 hours on a Tuesday and 6 - 10 hours on a Thursday. No sore spots, no sore back horses. I would recommend Kent Saddles to anyone. I think their Campdraft Saddle is as good as you can get. I have been Campdrafting for many years and still am competing at 74 years of age.
Clinton Cook, Dalrymple Heights, Qld
Western Drafter Saddle 
“Fits a wide range of horses” Thank you for my custom made saddle which I received twelve months ago. It is well made and fits a wide range of horses, making it extremely suitable for my riding needs. In regards to the cable rigging I am very happy as it sits well and adjusts to fit all my horses. I have had little previous experience with such rigging, so I am pleased with the way it is working for me. I ride in hilly country in central Queensland, working cattle on my parents’ and neighbours’ properties. I’m 26 years old and have been riding as long as I could walk, and this is the most comfortable saddle that I have ridden and worked in. I highly recommend Kent saddles. I don’t know why I didn’t buy a Kent Saddle earlier. Thanks very much, and hope to do business with you again.
Cheers Clint Natalie Mouat, Khancoban, NSW
Western Drafter Slimline  Natalie riding Arkab Bollinger"Bollie"
“A versatile saddle”
I love my new Kent Saddle. I went straight into four days of solid riding when I received it, and couldn’t believe the ease of transition from the saddle I’d been riding in for the past 30 years to the new one. No stiff or sore spots for me at all, and my horse was a picture of health at the end of four days of continuous riding in mountain terrain.
The fit of the saddle for my horse is fantastic, and I know that I can ride him for days on end through rough terrain with no sore spots developing. The saddle gives a feeling of great security when mustering cattle in steep hill country, and I am very impressed with the cable rigging which allows for fine adjustments of girth placement. I live on the edge of Kosciuszko National Park near Khancoban, and I use my horses for cattle work, track clearing, and pleasure riding. I’m the coordinator, and one of the guides for the annual Riley’s Ride, held during the Man From Snowy River Bush Festival. I ride through some fairly dense prickly scrub to get cattle out of creek areas, and to track clear for the Riley’s Ride. I’m particularly pleased to have a rough out saddle; it takes a beating and comes up looking great. I would gladly recommend a Kent Saddle to anyone who rides for stock work, pleasure or trail riding, or for working green horses. It was beneficial to speak with the saddler before making my final order, and the catalogue/order form guide made assembling the saddle an easy process. During the ordering process I found all the staff very pleasant and helpful. From my experience, I would say that Kent Saddlery is a great Australian business delivering a dependable, quality product. Ethan Tindale, Roxborough Downs, Boulia, QLD
Western Drafter Saddle  “Great to ride in, yeah”
Born and raised in and around Mt Isa QLD, in 2011 Ethan Tindale was into his second year at Roxborough Downs (Manager, John Bryant.) His love of stock work began at fifteen years of age when work experience in school holidays at Alexandria and Soudan Stations, NT, turned into full time ringing. Ethan also shares the common experience of many station workers who spend a period of time in the mines, (Mt Isa mines in Ethan’s case), and then return to cattle station work.
Ethan would like to head “Up North” at some point for more horse and cattle experience, but for the moment he’s happy enjoying the giving and receiving of plenty of cheek with co-workers, the friendly community around Boulia, the country of Roxborough, the good cattle, and the benefit of “learning a fair bit from John and lots of older experienced people around the area.” Ethan bought a Kent Saddle in 2010, and saddled up one of the Percheron cross station horses for a 2011 photo. “The saddle has been good; I haven’t done a lot of riding, but it’s just great to ride in yeah.” Jacqui Sharkey, Bannockburn VIC
Western Drafter Slimline Saddle “The DVD really helped put my mind at ease”
I received my saddle in super quick time. I was so apprehensive about buying a saddle without actually sitting in it, but the DVD really helped put my mind at ease. I have not bought a saddle for over ten years, so I was a little nervous. But the Kent Saddle is comfortable and very well made it fits my horse and me so well.
I really appreciate the work gone into making the saddle and the effort Kent Saddlery has gone to ensure a correct fit. For over 15 years my husband and I have had a passion for riding in the High Country. We worked for Jack Lovick on his Mountain Safari’s for about 5 or 6 years and enjoyed every second. We now live adjacent to 400 acres of bush and we take advantage of that as much as we can. About six years ago we decided to treat ourselves to some young quarter horses and while they were being trained we took a long awaited holiday with our two young children. Unfortunately, upon our return we were informed that both had been injured and subsequently had to be euthanized – 2 weeks apart. I couldn’t bring myself to ride for some time after that. I have only recently brought Evie, a 3yo quarter horse filly. She is such a quiet gentle horse so when she started bucking I knew something was not right. My saddle didn’t fit her and I needed a new one and with a young horse I couldn’t wait for months and months. Kent Saddlery was my saviour. They were the only saddlers that could guarantee the saddle would fit my horse and they would make sure it did. They didn’t have a six month wait like most of the other saddlers. It is a bit daunting ordering a saddle over the phone, without actually being able to physically see it, but I was assured by Kent Saddlery that I would be more than happy with it. I didn’t have the time nor the money to muck around so after watching the DVD, reading the testimonials and talking to the boys at Kent Saddlery, I took some measurements and photos and I ordered my Western Drafter Slimline. It didn’t take long and I received a call that it was ready. I have never had a fender saddle and I loved it from the moment I saw it. It is lightweight and so comfortable – from day one. Most importantly it fits Evie and she is happy. I know I have made the right choice and will continue to enjoy my riding for many years to come. I cannot recommend Kent Saddlery enough – they make a great Australian made saddle. Thanks Jacqui and Evie Adam Clark, Anningie Station NT
Western Drafter Saddle  “A versatile good work saddle”
Prior to 2011, Adam had spent five years at Lucy Creek Station, working for Allan and Jo Anne Fogharty. He then transferred to Anningie Station 250kms North West of Alice Springs; run by Allan’s brother, Steve Fogharty. He’d bought a Kent Saddle in 2007, and in 2010, was managing a Thoroughbred place, breaking in the colts. He describes his saddle as “a good work saddle. I can go from training a horse to riding in a rodeo. I won a buckle riding in it this year in the Station Buckjump. It’s a good saddle. I had one horse, a good horse, that was rearing up and dumping himself on top of the saddle. I’d get him back up and he’d do it again! I thought the saddle was going to break for sure, but there’s nothing wrong with it.” Adam’s plans include buying a place in the Adelaide Hills and returning to breaking in Polo and Throughbred horses. Adam has learned a lot from Allan and Steve Fogharty…. “I call them horsemen. They get horses to do some pretty amazing things.” He’s encouraged that he’s “starting to get horses to do what I want, but you’ve gotta stay a bit humble… there’s a lot to learn.” Mark Langley, Glen Innes, NSW Western Drafter Saddle  Mark and his daughter Ebony with Mark's Kent Saddle “Extremely durable, versatile and safe”
“Its essential for my work as a horse trainer to have a good saddle. When I started off I looked for a fender saddle that was strong, comfortable and reliable, with a deep close fit to my horse. Eight years on I am still happy with my Kent saddle.
I’ve found that the saddle is extremely durable, versatile and safe. It is in use 6-7 days a week, 10 hours a day. It’s been rolled on (several times!) and stepped on, and the tree is still fine. It’s been on the whole range of horses from ponies to Clydesdales, Arabs, Stock horses, Lippizzaners, Quarter horses and Kimberley Brumbies that were sent to the UAE. I use the Koda pad with chamber which lets me put the saddle on high withered horses. My saddle has never given a horse a sore back, and it sits well on young horses. I feel safe and close and deep with it, and yet it’s still a free saddle to get up and over your horse when it comes to fast work. The fenders on stirrup bars are easy to take off when I rub the saddle over a young horse. For horses that drop their heads I’ve felt much safer in this saddle than my old saddle. I can recommend the saddle to anyone who wants a good, comfortable, tough all round stock saddle. Every time we have ordered through Kent Saddlery the service has been friendly and helpful; the deliveries are always prompt. We couldn’t have asked for a better saddle and follow up company to deal with.” EQUINE ABILITY Horse Starting & Education with a Natural Approach Mob.: 0400 915 297 Email: info@equineability.com.au www.equineability.com.au "The Craftsmanship and quality of the saddle are second to none."
 Jodi competing on Quirindi Storm
Photographer Matt Bennet - www.mattbennet.com
Just a quick note to say thank you very much for the fabulous saddle, it was definitely worth the wait. We did the ride on Saturday and my horse went beautifully, in the old saddle he would get irritated and start tail swishing but in your saddle he had no qualms at all, he was very happy. I saddled him up again on Monday and expected to take him for a walk just to stretch him out, he usually wouldn’t do much more than a slow trot! Well I don’t know if it was the saddle or not but he was raring to go, there wasn’t much walking to be had. He seemed a lot different and the only thing that has changed is the saddle. I also found the saddle very comfortable, was surprised that I didn’t get sore due to it being new but it was great, I feel very safe and secure and it puts me in a good riding position.
I was having problems with ‘off the shelf’ saddles fitting my horse, he was getting a sore back and nothing seemed to stay in place on him. I researched heaps of saddles and finally found Kent Saddlery. My first contact was via email; usually you wait days to hear back from companies but Kent responded the same day, what a great start. I pestered them with a few emails and phone calls and they were always quick to respond, answering my queries and offering advice. I decided to put my faith in what the staff at Kent had told me and after watching their DVD took the plunge. I was nervous; I hadn’t even seen a Kent saddle ‘in the flesh’, what was the saddle going to be like? Well when it arrived I was thrilled, the craftsmanship and quality of the saddle are second to none. I should never have had any concerns because from the moment I first contacted Kent Saddlery the service I received was exceptional. Not only did I love the look of the saddle, it fit my horse perfectly and it was comfortable for me from the first ride. Our aim is to do more Endurance, the horse I had the saddle made for has just recently completed his first 40km training ride and we hope that in 2011 we will start doing 80km rides and get him qualified. We are also lucky that the Kent saddle fits our other two horses. We spend a lot of time out enjoying the trails and to have such a comfortable and safe saddle to ride in just tops it off. Thanks again Kent Saddlery, you have made me and our horses very happy. Jodi Smith Sandford, TAS
“I always feel secure in my Kent Saddle" Lisa riding her 25 year old Arab gelding,
"The Byzantine Ahmaal"
My name is Lisa, I’ve been riding for nearly 30 years. I come from an English riding background, having done mainly pleasure/trail riding over the past few years. My interests include training and breeding Arabian and Arabian derivative horses, focusing on producing quality saddle horses and ponies. I live in Rockhampton and the terrain I ride in is fairly rugged, rocky and hilly, however, I always feel very secure in my Kent Saddle—as it never shifts an inch. The close contact the saddle gives is amazing, it feels like I’m riding bareback!
I’m extremely happy with my new Kent Saddle. The catalogue and the DVD were very informative and invaluable in helping me to make decisions about what I required for my new saddle. In addition, the Kent’s customer service was faultless, everyone I spoke to was very helpful, informative and courteous. The fit of the saddle and the length of the fender were both perfect for me; as I’m a very small lady I have had a lot of trouble trying to find a saddle small enough to suit me. Ben and Daniel made the saddle perfectly to suit me, and equally important to suit my horses. I currently have four horses of varying builds (two Arabs, one chunky Stockhorse and one aged Thoroughbred) and the saddle sits well on all of them. The saddle has plenty of wither clearance for my aged Thoroughbred and my Stockhorse, but still fits nicely on my
young Arab who has next to no wither, and even fits on my Arab who is a bit sway back due to age. I am particularly pleased with the cable rigging as it allows the saddle to find a natural balance point for each horse, and doesn’t require the use of a flank girth. The cable rigging gives a closer leg contact by having less bulk under my leg, and the saddle feels very stable and secure to ride in. I’m thrilled with the quality of the leather and workmanship of the saddle. The leather is a high quality. Soft and very fine grained and has oiled up nicely. I also came around to the idea of the rough out seat and find that I like it a lot. I have come from an English riding background, so I also wanted a saddle that would have my leg balanced nicely under my hip, like a dressage saddle. I found straight away that even with the fenders on the stirrup bars my leg naturally went to the correct and comfortable position with my heel in line with my hip.
I did a lot of research when I was looking for a custom made saddle and I found that Kent Saddlery had the most information available, were happy to discuss my needs and were by far and away the best value for money of all the saddlers that I considered. I would highly recommend Kent Saddles to anyone looking for a quality, value for money saddle – you won’t be disappointed! Lisa Reynolds Rockhampton, Qld “Love my Kent Saddle,
Hmmm... Maybe someday I'll try a bridle.”
 Hey! What can you say, I fang around all day throwing saddle from horse to horse, one minute I’m in the indoor arena training reining or dressage manoeuvres, next jumping in the back paddock, or hours of trail riding young breakers through the bush, we do wear out a lot of leather round here, one thing I can say for sure is that my Kent saddle is the most used saddle in my tack room. When purchasing my Kent saddle I loved that I was able to be very fussy and select all the features that I wanted.
Slimline Southern Drafter = lightweight, less is best. Cable Rigging = fantastic, always balanced, very strong. I’ve had to tow some pretty big horses with a rope through the cut away at the front, put girth and rigging to the test.
Rough Out = While tied in my concrete breezeway with my saddle on, much to my horror one mare recently decided to lay down and roll over. I was expecting the worst but when she eventually got up you could hardly see the marks left.
Over the tree fender mounts = Allow me to stand in the saddle when necessary and always keep my weight over the stirrups.
I would like to thank Lachlan Cullen for introducing me to Kent Saddlery and look forward to a long partnership with Lyle and the team. Great saddle. Sincerely with thanks, Coastal Cowboy
Rick Paff,
Taree Equestrian Centre, NSW
“Very pleased with my new Kent Saddle”
 I am very pleased with my new Kent saddle, which is a perfect fit for me and my horse. I am new to riding, and the staffs at Kent were very helpful with the advice and information they gave me. I am a chippie, and ride on weekends at our place at Wylie Creek. I am looking forward to getting involved in campdrafting with my 5 year old ASH mare - and my new Kent saddle. Cheers, Lindsay Gauld
The Grange, Qld “It really is a pleasure to ride in”
 I'm 23 years old and grew up on Pandie Pandie Station near Birdsville and have enjoyed riding horses from an early age. For the last few years I have been living in Mount Isa and
working in the underground copper mine. I have two Quarter /Horses that I enjoy riding on
my days off and competing in as many nearby campdrafts, rodeos and gymkhanas that I can make it to, with barrel racing being my favourite event.
I recently purchased an Equaliser Western Drafter saddle with cable rigging and found it to be fantastic. It really is a pleasure to ride in and very comfortable. I didn’t experience any of the saddle soreness or rubbing that usually comes with a new saddle. I particularly was very impressed with the cable rigging as I have two horses and it makes the saddle very easy to adjust to suit each horse. I also purchased a leather bridle and breastplate with my saddle and found them to be of very good quality and they look really smart. Overall it was a great purchase; Kent Saddlery customised it to give me a saddle that is a perfect fit for both me and my horse and I would definitely recommend them. Emma Smith Mount Isa, Qld
“Extremely comfortable to ride in all day”
 Thank you very much Kent Saddlery for the beautiful job you have done in your craftsmanship of my new saddle. It is much lighter than previous saddles I have ridden in throughout my life, and even my Stock Horse appreciates the lightness! I find it extremely comfortable to ride in all day. I found the customer service outstanding. I have been riding horses for most of my life, mustering and working cattle on various properties throughout North Queensland. I also own acreage on the Atherton Tableland where I run Brahman Cross cattle. It is a hilly basalt block on the outskirts of Yungaburra. When working cattle, I use both Quarter Horses and Australian Stock Horses, and find the saddle fits well and is very comfortable. It was a pleasure doing business with the company, as I received heaps of helpful information, making the job of selecting the correct saddle much easier. The saddle arrived quickly and was well protected during transit. The service was friendly, prompt and efficient. A very special thanks to Daniel for his hard work. Thank you Lyle and family for a great job!  Ken Davis Yungaburra, Nth Qld
“The Saddle is absolutely perfect"  Georgie riding Lincoln Cable rigging is fantastic. The saddle is absolutely perfect. I have never ridden in any saddle like yours. It fits so well, and has exceeded my expectations. Your saddles are the best in the country. This saddle was custom made to fit both myself and my horse and it is excellent to be able to have something so wonderful to ride my wonderful old friend in. I cannot thank you all enough for your kindness and service.
After riding in Kent Saddles on a working holiday in Nth Qld, I returned home and ordered my very own purpose built Kent Saddle. I’m a 27 year old female who started riding when I was about two and I have a beautiful 15.2hh 13yr old Palomino gelding called ‘Lincoln’. Lincoln was my 21st birthday gift from my fiancé and will be with me until the day he goes up to the rodeo in the sky. As Lini is getting older now, it is just so perfect to be able to ride him out in the bush knowing well that he will not suffer any pain or discomfort. I can now share many more years of wonderful riding joy with my lovely friend thanks to your saddle. I grew up in Deniliquin NSW and met my fiancé nine years ago. Since meeting Alan my life has never been boring and I have been lucky enough to travel Australia with Al, working in Government, Human Resources, Primary Industry and Mining. I am currently completing my Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management through Charles Sturt Uni and am in the process of purchasing my second property with Alan, where we plan to run cattle and purchase an Arabian type brood mare.
Alan has recently ordered a Kent Saddle for our little ASH x Arab pony ‘Chez’ that we were lucky enough to purchase earlier in the year. Our favourite places are, of course, the Territory and far Nth Qld and we love nothing more than riding our horses through the bush with our dogs Jessie (Border Collie x Kelpie) and
Casper (Border Collie).
 Georgie Griffiths Nynagan, NSW
“Perfect fit for me and my lifetime horse”
 John's daughter Victoria riding Trooper
It took me about 18 months to save for my ‘lifetime’ saddle, and I made sure I put that time to good use by researching exactly what saddle I wanted. I had one chance to buy the right saddle, and I couldn’t afford a mistake. Like most people, I did the usual tour of chain-stores, but none of them offered any kind of guarantee the saddle would fit my solid Quarter Horse; and that was a risk I was not willing to take. After watching the Kent DVD, I was convinced I could trust them and their products.
Mostly to be used for added security touring around the trails of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, I’d originally wanted a traditional style full flap stock saddle because I’d had bad experiences with stiff fenders on cheap off-the-shelf saddles. But the more I looked and talked to people, the more I found that cross-breed trees and fenders were the way to go. I discussed my concerns about fenders with Lyle and Ben, and they assured me they could create a saddle with permanently turned fenders – I went for it.
Now, this is where going with Kent all paid off. My saddle arrived a couple of months later with permanently turned fenders that sat in the ideal riding position, but the tree seemed too tight for my horse at the shoulders. After reviewing some photos I took, Ben immediately offered to make me a larger full Quarter Horse saddle and even had a bare tree sent to me for a trial fit. About a month later I had another saddle, all at no fuss and no extra cost to me. So, my story isn’t so much about what sort of riding I do, but about the journey of buying my lifetime saddle which is the perfect fit for me and my lifetime horse. John Freeman Kilsyth, Vic
"The cable rigging works extremely well"
 Very pleased with the purchase of my Kent Saddle. It fits both my horse and my daughter’s horse very well. The Saddle is very easy to get into compared to some others I have ridden in! I feel very safe in my Kent Saddle. The cable rigging works extremely well. Overall, I’m very happy with my Saddle and I recommend it very highly. I'm 53 years old, and have been riding for a little over 40 of those. Most of this riding has been general stock work on the family property and neighbouring properties where I worked as a Jackeroo. In my younger days I also enjoyed campdrafting and have just recently began to compete in Team Penning with my daughter. My Kent saddle is the most comfortable saddle I have ever ridden in; it fits both me and my horse perfectly, the cable rigging ensures that it doesn't move at all, even in the roughest of country. I would happily recommend a Kent Saddle with cable rigging to anyone. The staff at Kent Saddlery were extremely helpful and answered all my queries and the updates throughout the making of my saddle were greatly appreciated. Bruce Dunne. "Springville", Uralla, NSW
“I’m a total convert; I just love it”
 Michelle riding Ballad
Thanks. My horse and I are extremely happy with the saddle. This is my first fender saddle as I have always ridden in dressage saddles and now after riding in my new Southern Drafter I'm a total convert; I just love it, and more importantly my horses love it.
Getting a custom made saddle for my horse was a priority, and after talking to the wonderfully helpful and professional staff at Kent Saddlery I was confident the saddle would be a perfect fit for me and my horse, and how right I was'. Not knowing a lot about fender saddles I went with the cable rigging option and I am very thankful that I did as I can position the girth properly, especially for my very wide Quarter/Stock Horse that is prone to girth galls. I have been riding for about 20 years, competing in dressage, showjumping and eventing, but have now started showing in Stock Horse and Quarter Horse competitions with my 5 year old Stock Horse /Quarter Horse gelding named 'Ballad'. Thanks again for such a great fitting and comfortable saddle. I would highly recommend Kent Saddlery to anyone.  Michelle Baddock Newcastle, NSW.
“Nothing compares to my Kent saddle”
 Tara competing in Mitchell, Qld, 2010 on Beauty Hi my name is Tara Rule. I’m 23 years old and I’m from “Manning” Station, Tambo, Qld.
I’ve lived at Manning for four years now, looking after my family’s property and enjoying mustering and campdrafting. Before I moved to Tambo I lived at my parents’ place, “Woodside”, 30kms SE of Charleville where I grew up. I’ve been riding horses my whole life as we only use horses to muster our cattle. I’ve ridden in other saddles before but nothing compares to my Kent Saddle. First of all, I love my new Kent Saddle, not only for looks, but the comfort is outstanding. With having purchased three saddles in my time, nothing compares to this Kent Saddle. A huge thank you to the staff at Kent Saddlery who assisted me over the phone in choosing the correct saddle for me. I highly recommended these saddles to all of my friends. I look forward to many years of comfort. Cheers, Tara Rule.
Tambo, Qld “The Saddle fits like a glove”
 In my arguably limited experience with riding horses I have had the displeasure of riding in some hairy, dodgy saddles. However, I am pleased to say my Kent Saddle does not fit in the above mentioned group. The saddle fits like a glove on me and my Quarter Horse Stallion. He is more responsive since I’ve been using my Kent Saddle. My legs sit me in a perfect position and at times I feel a little “too” confident, that despite the best efforts of the animal below me, I cannot be dislodged from my saddle. The cable rigging is so easy to use and being a small person it is the easiest girth I have ever tightened. Kimberley has lived in Bourke, NSW for most of her life. She is a parole officer, and single Mum, who likes to spend her “spare time” riding her horse at her mother’s property, where she helps out where she can, and also runs a few cattle for herself (and her horse). Kimberley says she is “basically self taught, and has also taken some wise advice from bush stockmen, including her grandfather, who it seems she inherited her love of horses from”. Following the birth of her son, Kimberley was keen to buy a horse, and in spite of her mother’s response of “you’re plain mad”, she purchased a Quarter Horse Stallion. It was a case of new horse, new saddle, and Kimberley chose a Western Drafter with cable rigging. “I can safely say I have never ridden in a more comfortable saddle. I would recommend it to anyone thinking about giving it a go: Oh, and the service is second to none.” Kimberley Bird Bourke, NSW
“The service is second to none”
 Geoff riding Chase I was 40 years old when I learnt to ride; that was 20 years ago. I went through a few horses but I always had what my wife called a romantic dream of breeding and training my own horse. I settled for buying a three week old Appaloosa foal I named Chase, and leasing the dam until he was weaned. With the help of my wife Karen, I broke him in myself. I spent quite a while looking for a good quality saddle that would fit my horse and myself and last a lifetime. This was not easy as Chase was proving very difficult to fit. Karen and I went to Equitana in Melbourne where I met Lyle and immediately knew the Equaliser Drafter was the saddle I wanted. I liked the idea of having a saddle tailor made to fit my horse and myself and the saddles looked great. The quality of the workmanship was obvious.
In 2004 my wife and I bought a trail riding business on Tamborine Mountain in the Gold Coast hinterland. We moved from SA with our daughter Celine who was 8 years old at the time. We began the long haul from Adelaide to Qld with our daughter in the back seat and Chase and our daughter's pony, Khara in the float behind. We hadn't gone far along the highway when we heard an almighty racket and pulled over to find the tailgate was down! Whether Chase kicked it down or it fell down we weren't sure, but we travelled the rest of the way with a rope tied around it just in case! We arrived three days later with a very tired child and two very tired horses. Since 2004 I have logged 1150 horse in my Lyle Kent Saddle. The saddle still looks great and I love riding in it; it is comfortable, very secure, and still fits my horse well. I have since bought a saddle bag, flank girth, breastplate, reins with slobber straps and a great stock whip. All the gear is top quality and the service is second to none. Thanks Lyle, we recommend your business to everyone. Geoff Cook Tamborine Mountain Trail Rides, Qld
“They are versatile and comfortable”
 Caitlin riding Croc
I'm 20 years old, and when I finished school I started working on De Grey Station in the Pilbara of Western Australia. De Grey is a family run station of about 1,000,000 acres, which runs around 20,000 head of cattle Mustering was completed on horseback with the assistance of a couple of motorbikes, a chopper and a plane.
There is a horse breeding program on the Station, and at the start of each season we would break in the young horses which was always fun. Throughout the year I had the opportunity to ride some of the young horses, training them on cattle. De Grey has a 'fleet' of Kent Saddles, which is why I decided to buy one of my own, knowing their comfort and reliability. I now work at the Narrogin Agricultural College in the south-west of WA, which educates Year 11 and 12 students in farming and tradesmanship. There is a large equine programme run at the college, where the students can learn about horse breeding, racing, campdrafting, and low stress stock handling. I really enjoy working at the college, it's great to see the students come along themselves and with their horses. Kent Saddles have been an important essential in both my jobs, they are versatile and comfortable for day to day work, fit most horses with ease, and are great on a lively horse! If it weren’t for my Kent Saddle, I’m sure there would have been more times I would have ended up on my butt! Cheers Caitlin U’ren
Narrogin, WA
“They all ride in Kent Saddles"
 Laurel's grandchildren out riding My name is Laurel Stevens and I come from a small mallee country town called Balranald in NSW, 100 kilometres north of the Victorian border. I have been riding most of my life around campdrafts, ASA Stock Horse riding, Pony Clubs, gymkhanas, ag shows, and school horse sports. Sadly my age has now limited my ability in the competitive side of riding as I have lost the willingness and the nerve to be involved in competitive riding.
However now, I really enjoy riding for pleasure on my Quarter Horse called 'Image', a Spinifex breed. He is a part of my willingness to want to keep on riding Image is a pleasure to ride but can be a bit of a handful when put under pressure. So we are both happy to ride down to our National Parks on Yanga Lake with my two Border Collies, Sally and Jenny. I am a school teacher, a dressage judge and Pony Club instructor. In my spare time I swim and coach/teach children and adults to swim. My youngest daughter and son-in-law and my two grandchildren ride in campdrafts competitively. My oldest granddaughter enjoys riding Image at Pony Club. They all ride in Kent Saddles and that's when I decided that owning a Kent Saddle will be my last venture before I retire from riding.  Laurel riding Image
The staff at Kent Saddlery worked with me in designing a saddle for my needs. The saddle is a stock saddle with all the requirements of Pony Club rules and regulations. I feel secure and it is the best saddle that I have ever ridden in for comfort and safety. Thank you Kent Saddlery. Laurel Stevens Balranald, NSW “You can't fall out of it!”
Jessica Scott, who is 10, has been riding since she was 2 years of age. She lives at Caldervale Station near Tambo, Queensland with her Mum and Dad, Bill and Julie Scott and brother, Cameron, sister Emily, and baby brother, Henry.
She loves riding on ‘Sensation', a station horse, and she loves polocrosse and plays with a junior team, “The Tambo Redbacks”. Her dream is to be a professional polocrosse player. She loves being with her horse, riding bareback, and the colour purple.  Jessica has a Kent Saddle, and has ridden it in polocrosse competitions. She says “You can't fall out of it!” We think her riding skills might have something to do with it, and we're happy she's happy with her saddle.
Jessica Scott
Caldervale Station, Tambo, Qld "The saddle fits amazingly well and is so balanced"
Wow, thank you so much for a wonderful saddle!! I was very surprised when I opened my package as the finish of the saddle was better than I had expected. I went for rough out only on the seat and the rest smooth as I wanted a saddle pretty enough to compete in at an affordable price, and as I said, it looks fantastic. But the main thing is comfort for both the horse and me; the saddle fits amazingly well and is so balanced, and I find it really comfortable I have only one complaint. It turned out so well, it took me a week to put it on a horse because I didn't want anything to happen to it!!!!
 I am a complete horse nut! So much so that I still ride after a riding accident that left me with a disability! The horse blood flows through my veins. I have done a bit of everything: riding lessons, pony club, RDA, dressage, jumping, stock work and now I am starting campdrafting, horse training and breeding. I love my Kent saddle. Thanks for a great saddle and wonderful service.
Angie Snell Rosewood, Qld
“Love my saddle” - makes
my horse look even spunkier!
Another very satisfied customer.
I have ridden horses all my life and have never had the opportunity until recently to purchase our first custom made new saddle. I wanted a saddle that was versatile enough to suit both my husband and myself. Apart from hubby being taller we had the same size butt which was excellent to work around. We love the combination of the rough outer and smooth fenders. It is such a comfortable saddle to ride in. We're actually that impressed we're going to buy a second saddle because when both hubby and I go riding, I'm the one who misses out and has to use the old one!!
I'd never heard of “cable rigging” before - I reckon it's a great invention and have no problems with it at all - improves the standard.
The Kent clan are very professional and I was very impressed with the customer service. Jo-Ellen
Whitsed, Biggara Valley, Vic "… the cable rigging allows for closer
contact with my horse." I recently purchased a Western Drafter Slimline Saddle fitted with cable rigging. After riding in it for most of the season I have found it to be comfortable and the cable rigging allows for closer contact with my horse. The girth sits straight, no matter what horse I ride, also it sits flatter under the saddle. I am very happy with my purchase and would happily recommend cable rigging on a Kent saddle. Thanks also to Lyle and Helen, who are super helpful and really friendly.
We have been quite busy at the station (McArthur River) and with different activities after work. We have been to a couple of campdrafts and rodeos which were a lot of fun. I used my Kent saddle at the campdrafts - it was the first time I had done that sort of thing so it was good fun. I have also had a few moments where my saddle has kept me on top of my horse, so for that I am really grateful!
Nikki Bambry
McArthur River Station, NT
“We met Nikki at McArthur River Station in the Northern Territory on our yearly trip. We were impressed with her enthusiasm and commitment to her job at McArthur River.” Lyle and Helen
"I highly recommend this comfortable,
durable saddle" My Kent saddle is the best investment I have made. I am in the saddle for many hours and needed something comfortable and this saddle has moulded to my seat perfectly. I currently work on a thoroughbred breaking-in establishment as an assistant breaker / pony rider. Upon Lyle's advice I purchased the Western Drafter saddle as it enables me the freedom to get over the horses neck and I still have the security I need (especially when horses are fresh). I find the cable rigging a great idea as I can put the saddle on where I want it, girth it up and the cinch slides on the rigging and sits in the best position. I highly recommend this comfortable, durable saddle.
Thank you to the Kent family and staff with a special thanks to Lyle, as all your advice on choosing the saddle was spot on. I found the whole experience easy, quick and I actually learned a bit along the way.
Great advice, fast friendly service and affordable quality. Keep up the good work. Kelli-anne Lynch
Hawkesbury, NSW "…my saddle, horse & I feel like one unit in all ways."
I purchased my saddle from Lyle & family after visiting their showroom and workshop near Stanthorpe. I wanted a saddle to allow me to get forward and equally important, to fit my horses. I was impressed by the professional attitude and knowledge of all the personnel that work at Kent Saddlery.
The saddle was beyond my expectations. It covered all aspects of the above and the cable rigging allows me to change saddle positions to suit all horses for campdrafting.
From the first ride, I could feel the contact with my stock horse. I have had six rides in competition camp and my saddle, horse & I feel like one unit in all ways. The cable rigging does everything you have promoted it to do and it allows me to seat the saddle to comfort the horse and position me where I want to ride. The saddle I have selected allows me to get forward while drafting or to sit deep with a sticky horse.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Kent Saddlery for all your requirements.
Well done Kent Saddlery.
Warren Rock
TENTERFIELD NSW
"We ride in mountain
country, and very steep The saddles never move"
I bought an Equaliser saddle 3½ years ago, and it's still going perfect. I am very happy with it. My son TJ bought an Equaliser saddle from Kents too. He loves it, never gets out of it. We do the mustering on both properties I manage. At the end of the day the saddles fit all our horses, don't have any problems.
The Equaliser Drafter has been amazing, the cable rigging has been good, it is easy to pull up and it seems to centre itself on the horse, it fits all horses from quarter horse to brumby.
Kents were very helpful when buying both saddles and all our other gear. All top quality. We recommend Kent's saddles and gear to everybody. If you're on a good thing, stick with it.
Many thanks for the saddle and all the other gear we have gotten off you.
Tim Hedger & TJ Hedger
“Alawah”, Berridale, NSW
"The saddle gives me
excellent support
when my horse reacts suddenly."
I especially like reining, trail and going on bush rides. The tropical bush changes a lot with the wet/dry seasons. The Kent saddle gives me excellent comfort and support.
Annika Bisseling
Palmerston, NT
"It's more that just a saddle,
it's a flaming Miracle!"
Brumby, & Deb wearing one of her more 'conservative' outfits! She is an avid collector of imaginative jeans and shirts sourced primarily from the US of A.
I was selling my third saddle, still seeking the impossible - a perfect fit for both Brumby and myself. His shoulders were locked, and the saddle slid around - I was in despair. Then by chance, I met Lyle and Helen.
Lyle measured us up and carefully talked through my requirements. Then he made me a small light saddle that fits like a glove. When I received it, ahead of schedule, the stirrups were on the right holes and the fenders had been pre-turned for my dodgy knees. I feel more balanced on my horse and can sit any disturbance with ease. Brumby's white patches have eased, his action is freed up and he has started to shine. This month we cut 3.5 seconds off our Barrels time! Thank you to the whole Kent Saddlery Family. You really go the extra mile!
Deborah Vincent Broome, WA
Kent Saddlery comments:
In 2007 we met Deborah at a market in Broome where she was selling, among other things, Judy Rosser art products - which Helen loves. This friendly, enthusiastic lady quickly discovered our reason for being in the area, and we were easily convinced to come and spend time at the rodeo grounds, meeting some members of the Broome Horse Riding Club. Spend a few minutes with Deb and you come away smiling. She's an inspiration, ready to encourage others, and positive in all she says and does. "I was always made to feel like a valued and welcome customer."
I grew up on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, and was lucky enough to spend my weekends and school holidays riding at Smoky Dawson's Ranch and Heath Harris's Bloodwood Park. In those early years I rode some great little ponies all through the bush, swimming them in water holes and going on picnics with them.
As an adult, I headed for the country, still hopelessly addicted to horses. Over the years I completed Horse Management and Equine Nursing courses, and did a stint at trackwork riding (love the speed, but not the busters). I also spent a few years working on thoroughbred studs and doing foal watch.  That brings me to today, a bit longer in the tooth, but just as lucky. I am now working in the beautiful Upper Hunter at Ellerston where I look after and ride eight or so trail horses. Most of my day is spent riding. From schooling horses to riding up and down fairly steep country, crossing rivers, to just poking along quietly.
Without a doubt, my Equaliser Southern Drafter Slimline saddle caters to all my needs. I find it very comfortable, as do all my varied horses. I also feel very secure in it without feeling restricted, and I really don't think you could kill it with a stick. As for the service provided by the team at Kent Saddlery, you couldn't ask for better. Right from when I first ordered my saddle through to the finished product, I was always made to feel like a valued and welcome customer. Thank you, to all the staff at Kent Saddlery, you really are doing a great job!!! Ellen Keidge Ellerston Station, Scone, NSW
"I knew I could only afford one good saddle in my lifetime, and I'm glad I chose this saddle." I'm from Landers Creek Station Millaroo, situated in the Lower Burdekin, Qld. I've been involved with horses as long as I can remember. Originally starting in pony club at Kalpowar, via Monto. Then progressing to cattle work and breaking in horses. We came north in 1989 working on various cattle stations. The type of country here varies from flat to hilly.
 I bought a Western Drafter with cable rigging. I also got a flank girth with it, but after putting the saddle on my horse I realized I wouldn't need it. I've put it away, not even needing it when I break in and ride the youngsters the first time when they may put in a buck or two. The 4 inch kneepads and seat hold me in, making me feel secure and safe. The back of the seat doesn't rub where some saddles tend to after riding in them for a while. I'm involved with horse sports, camp drafting, clerk of the course, riding race horses, stock horses, quarter horses, ponies and even Percherons and the saddle suits them all. No rubbing on their backs.
Thank you so much for such a good saddle. I knew I could only afford one good saddle in my lifetime, and I'm glad I chose this saddle.
Greg Lee
Landers Creek Station, Millaroo, Qld
"I am convinced the cable rigging is the way to go."
I am really happy with my new saddle. The saddle is very comfortable and fit's the range of horses well. The workmanship and leather quality are second to none. I am convinced the cable rigging is the way to go.
.jpg) We founded Pemberton Australian Stock Horses near Temora in NSW about seven years ago. Our commitment is to breed and train quality horses with excellent temperament and conformation. Along with our two girls we pursue our interest in Australian Stock Horse events, campdrafting and cattle work.
I have been a NSW Policeman for about 27 years and really enjoy our horse work. Several times a year our family and friends travel to the high country in southern NSW where we enjoy the mountains and the solitude that it offers. The remainder of the year is very busy attending horse shows, clinics and other horse activities.
Your motto “Going the extra mile” is so true. The friendly service that you all offer is much appreciated. Keep up the good work.
Mick Allen
Pemberton Australian Stockhorses
Temora, NSW
"It sits on the horse's back perfectly." "Thanks so much for the excellent saddle. It fits both myself and the horse perfectly and is great to ride in. I mostly ride for pleasure nowadays but still do the occasional mustering job.
I wanted to try a swinging fender saddle, simply because I liked the look of them and the thought of no more leg pinching also appealed. So, I went and did what a lot of people do and purchased what looked like a good swinging fender saddle from a catalogue and paid very little for it. You know the saying!! "You get what you pay for"and in this case I did, a cheap saddle that was terrible to ride in and didn't sit well on the horses back. Well, being the highly intelligent person I am I went and did the same thing again expecting a different result. Obviously I'm a slow learner and eventually I realized that to get a quality saddle that was going to suit both myself and my horse I was going to have to pay for it.
 I then started looking and over a period of many months I had spoken with friends and saddle shop owners and searched the internet and magazines. There are plenty of saddles to choose from but the ones that caught my eye were your saddles. They looked like great value for money! After reading the catalogue and viewing the DVD, I ordered the Station Special and as promised it was delivered to me 12 weeks later. This is a very well made saddle. It sits on the horse's back perfectly. It is comfortable and secure and because of the spring bar fender mounts you can get your feet forward when required. The saddle also sits extremely low on the horse's back which is excellent.
I was happy with the saddle when I first rode in it and the more I use it the more I am glad that I decided to purchase a Kent saddle. Also I haven't come across a more friendly or helpful group of people and I really appreciated that.
Great product, great value, great people. What more could I have asked for?
I'm more than happy to recommend your products as fantastic value for money."
Phil Ryder,
Clermont, Qld
"With the rough side out on the Kent saddle I feel really secure."
"I have lived in the River Heads area of Hervey Bay for 58 years. I rode a horse to school then had to round up the milking cows on the way home from school every day til I left school at the age of 14.
I milked cows for 40 years, every day, seven days a week, on the horse every afternoon rounding up the milkers. The part I liked best was when taking the cows to their day paddock in the early morning, on turning for home I could let the horse go and as he got faster the cool morning breeze was exhilarating. I also ran beef cattle along with the dairying. Ticks and buffalo flies kept me busy so had plenty of horse riding.  Norm riding "Matthew" I ceased milking in 1991 and now just concentrate on beef cattle. I run 100 odd breeders and then fatten the weaners. I recently bought the Point Vernon butchery and supply it with prime spayed heifers and steers. My wife and I are in our 70's. She does most of the book work, so having to supply the butcher shop every other week with cattle means extra mustering and having a custom made Kent Saddle makes the extra riding more comfortable. CABLE RIGGING - Some horses have a deep chest and lean flank, others more like a beer barrel. So it is obvious the cable rigging being adjustable is a good system in my opinion.
TREE TO SUIT THE HORSE - with the Kent saddle custom made to fit my horse "Matthew", he is more relaxed to mount, and to ride. He has settled down to the point where he will slow canter with a loose rein.
COMFORT - With the Kent saddle custom made to my size I don't have chafing any more after a hard ride, being so comfortable it is a pleasure to ride.
SWINGING FENDER - I have been riding horses for over sixty years and I wish I'd had the privilege of using the swinging fender for the period. No more skin off the insides of my knees, no more pinching my legs between stirrup straps and saddle flap.
ROUGH OUT - With the rough side out on the Kent saddle I feel really secure. My horse can prop and turn and take off and I feel as though I am a part of the horse."
Norm Gillespie,
Scarness, Qld
"I love my Kent Saddle and so do my horses."
"I love my Kent Saddle and so do my horses. The old saddles I used were giving my two horses sore backs, and we had to keep getting someone every few months to fix and work on their backs to get them right again (at quite a large expense for my mum). One in particular hated being saddled and wouldn't stand still, now he is a good boy and just stands there for me. Mum says I look good in my 'Deb Dress'!
 Kate with Dude at the Maldon Campdraft
I must explain, all my friends made their Deb this year, I didn't want to and instead spent the money that I would have used making my Deb, on my saddle. Money better spent, than on all that Deb stuff and I will have my saddle forever, some girls are trying to sell their dresses already.
I use the saddle at home on our farm, helping Dad with stock-work and just riding and jumping for fun. I've ridden in it at Inter-school Gymkhanas and cleaned up in Handy Mount and Games classes! I use it at our Pony Club meets. I've just starting campdrafting and it is great for that too. I just don't move at all, I sit there secure and in comfort and just enjoy the thrill of cutting and trying to get around the course. Great fun!
 Kate on Delta with pet dog, Lilly
Mum can't believe how good the care and service of Lyle and the Kent family is, and how personal it is and the follow up, even after we received the saddle.
I love my Saddle, thanks heaps!"
Kate Stuart
Serpentine, Vic
"This stool suits me well."
"Not having anything to do with cable rigging before, I was very sceptical of the set up. I rode all my horses with a flank girth. I could not see how the cable rigging would work on different shapes and ages of horses without the flank girth. "But I bought one," and this set up has proved every bit as good as was promised by Kent Saddlery. I regularly use it on the colts up to my "hand over" horse.
I have bought this saddle to fit a large range of horses. This saddle goes on to my Clydesdale mare one day to my young Quarter horse colts the next day,.. with no trouble, a change of girth and off again. Places that I muster will range from the coastal flood plains, chinee apple paddocks, river crossings, black soil flats and mountain range country; this stool suits me well." Jayson O'Keefe
Fern Lea Station, Brandon, Qld "It was the best Birthday present!"
"My Southern Drafter Saddle fits my two Quarter Horses excellently. It is so comfortable to ride in and it sits on their backs nicely. I would recommend this saddle to anyone, if they are campdrafting, Gymkhanaing, mustering or just pleasure riding. The Southern Drafter knee pads and seat make me feel secure and safe for the unexpected.
 Thank you so much for such an excellent saddle and I'm glad I dealt with Kent Saddlery as the staff are very helpful and professional in this area of work, and are very prompt with country orders.
Thanks."
Amanda McKnight,
Quilpie, Qld
"Cable rigging is a very ingenious feature" "The saddle is excellent, I have ridden in it just about every day since I received it. Just after the new year, we took three horses from Tasmania on a campdrafting trip. The new saddle was superb to use in these events, very comfortable and secure. The cable rigging is a very ingenious feature and allows the saddle to fit a wide range of horses and find a natural point of balance. The shape of the tree you sent me now also fits my horse exceptionally well. Thank you for your time and support helping me find the ideal tree-shape for my horse. Her gaits and stride have improved remarkably since I have been riding in your saddle. I consistently recommend you guys to everyone I know.
"I'm loving it" "I would just like to say how much I love my new Kent Saddlery Saddle. As a kid I learnt to ride chasing cows but now days I mainly ride and coach dressage and jumping and do a little cattle work. Until recently I mainly rode in my dressage saddle but since I got my new stock saddle I choose it unless I am training for a competition. As I had it custom made it fits me perfectly and with a range of horses that I use it on it gives a good fit. The extra padding in the seat has been wonderful and the cable rigging has allowed me more girth adjustability. Even my kids love it. I have a fat pony which in the past I normally would need a breastplate on, but with my new saddle there is no need.
 Sophie and Liam testing out the new saddle
Living around the corner from the Saddlery has given me great opportunity to take advantage of the great service that the Kent family provides. Lastly I would just like to thank Ben for the work he has done with my horses and my students horses over the years.
Thank you
Beck
Rebecca Poole
Stanthorpe, Qld
"Mustering and gymkhanas, it works well in both places."
"I got my Kent Saddle for Christmas one year and then went away to boarding school. Every holidays when I come home my saddle still feels the same and is really easy to look after, and you can't notice any scratches from near misses. It's hard on my horses that I am only home from school a short time and need them to perform well, and my Kent saddle makes it comfortable and easy for the horse and me. I mostly use my Kent Saddle for mustering and gymkhanas, it works well in both places.
Sam is 14 years old, and comes from Windorah, in far South West Qld's Channel Country. He is currently a boarder at St Brendans school in Yeppoon, Qld, where he completed Year 9 in 2009. He started riding at a young age, stopped for a while, then became very interested again, with encouragement from 'Dogga' Weston from "Tanbar Station". Sam helps out with the mustering at Tanbar whenever it fits in with school holidays. Sam competes regularly in local gymkhanas, recently winning Leading Rider of the Day at Betoota, the Juvenile Barrel Race at Bedourie, and Leading Rider of the Day at Birdsville. He won the Men's Flag Race (see photo) at Windorah, riding 'Cricket'. Sam also owns a grey mare which he describes as "my best gymkhana horse". Sam's mother, Barbara,describes Sam as "very competitive", and in March 2010, he is travelling to New Zealand for two weeks as part of the school boys Rodeo team. Asked about what he's planning for the future Sam is enthusiastic, "Bull Riding. I want to go somewhere with that!" "It's like riding along in a lounge chair"
"I have been very pleased with my saddle. Once I found my rhythm the Western Drafter proved to be extremely comfortable for me and more importantly my horses. It doesn't pinch my legs or rub the horses backs. The cable rigging was a worthwhile addition because in my opinion it makes it easier to fit the girth properly and for it to adapt to different horses. Overall the makers of the saddle have done a great job resulting in a neat finish. I encourage the team at Kents to keep up the good work in the future. I'm fifteen years old and in grade 10 at Townsville Grammar school in 2009, where I seem to spend a lot more time pushing pens across paper than I do pushing cattle through the scrub.
 Being a boarder there I only get to come home during the holidays so I often don't get to ride in my Kent as much as I'd like. But when I am using it, I am mostly mustering in thick timber country or campdrafting. I have had my Kent saddle for over twelve months now and after riding in old stock saddles for six or seven years it's like riding along in a lounge chair." Sam Woodhouse
Beeantha Station, Melia, Qld  "Fits me and my stock horse like a dream" "Very happy with my saddle. Wanting the best the first time round and not having the money to make mistakes, I am thrilled. Fits me and my stock horse like a dream. Very well made, lovely leather. Being an older woman and a new rider I knew I needed a saddle to keep me safe on the trail. You just sink into it and stay wedged....great feeling! Love the cable rigging, gives you more flexibility with position. And the girth stays in position well. Being small with short legs I like the closeness to my horse the saddle gives me. I even have dressage lessons in this saddle.  Thanks Ben for our chats and your advice and patience. It was hard to have a saddle tailor made over the phone, and via diagrams, measurements and photos. You made me feel secure and that I could step out in trust. May your business continue to grow and flourish and may you always be an open, happy family within that business. You can't imagine how nice it is to phone you and have a friendly family member take your call." Fay Stephenson
Kangaroo Valley, NSW
"No more aches and pains anywhere" "I have been riding for about 20 years, but never had a new saddle. My Kent Saddle was a gift from my partner, who had purchased one the year before. My saddle fitted my horse and myself perfectly and I couldn't believe how easy it was to carry and handle. As we do a lot of mustering, I used to have problems with aching feet; this is no longer the case, no more aches and pains anywhere due to my custom made saddle. As I was a late starter in learning to ride, I had problems with leg commands, but now I feel that my riding has improved and leg commands are no longer a problem.  Leo, my 5 year old horse, was having trouble getting up into a canter and wasn't keen to work. He is a different horse now and enjoys working. I feel Leo and I are now working as a team, and that's all thanks to Kent Saddlery and the thoughtfulness of my partner. You can see the care and great workmanship that goes into each of your saddles. So thank you for producing such a wonderful saddle." Cherie Allery
Yeppoon, Qld
"Well made and great customer service" "Thanks for an excellent saddle. It has comfort (important when you are over 70) strength and quality workmanship. I haven't tried drafting in it yet but a black colt gave both the saddle and I a good workout in the roundyard a couple of weeks back.  I am especially glad that I took your advice on the cable rigging. It allows me to position the girth in the right spot no matter what shape the horse. I have had it on six different horses. Also glad I had the oxbows included. A good wide comfortable stirrup. At present the saddle is being used by my partner on a young horse I started. I can tell you I was glad of the extra depth in the seat the first time I rode him.
 Rob Virgo's partner, Bina, on Jerilderee Waltz
Thanks again for a terrific product, well made and great customer service. Regards"
Rob Virgo
Middleton, SA
"I'm sure this will be my last saddle."
"I am extremely pleased with the saddle, comfortable and tough. My name is Darren Fleetwood and my son is Cody Fleetwood. I am 42 and I am a contract musterer and farrier. I have been riding since I was 6 and had a fair few saddles but never had a saddle that fits as good as a Kent Saddle on all sorts of horses. The cable rigging is ideal for all sorts of horses. I spend about 30 hours a week in the saddle and it is so comfortable. I do a few campdrafts and it is such an all-round saddle. I'm sure this will be my last saddle. Cody is 11 and it has improved his riding so much being comfortable. He is about to start his juvenile campdrafting campaign and he loves his Kent Saddle very much.  The after sale service we received from the Kent family was so good. Its great to see that good old fashion service is still out there. Thankyou very much."
Darren Fleetwood,
Boggabilla, NSW
"The more I use it the better I like it."
"When I was looking for a new saddle I searched the web and found some interesting options. I, like many others, have purchased other saddles that have failed either me or my horse. Because of my previous experiences I wanted to be confident that what was promised would be delivered. Kent Saddlery have certainly done that. The website gave me the feeling of professionalism and pride in the work undertaken and the sense that my concerns would be important.  The DVD gave me sufficient information and confidence to talk directly to Ben. He listened to me and helped me to choose the right saddle. I am very happy with my saddle, my horse is very happy and I would certainly have no hesitation in recommending the saddle to any of my friends. Since purchasing my saddle which has cable rigging I have ridden several times including tackling rugged steep mountainous trails at Quirindi. My saddle did not slip and I didn't need a breastplate to keep it in place. The more I use it the more I like it. I am 52 and live on a small property at Rosebrook which is about 2 hours north of Sydney and started riding when I was 42. I ride Sugar, an 11 year old bay gelding, and we learn natural horsemanship together.  As part of developing my riding we have ridden many trails including Castle Mountain at Quirindi which is very steep and rugged in part, Dungog which again is a mix of challenging trails, as well as local trails at Wollombi and Uffington Forest. Being a nervous rider I required a saddle which allowed me to be safe and comfortable whilst on the trail and I also wanted to have a centred riding position. I have used various saddles but found the Kent saddle fitted my horse, fitted me and allowed me the freedom to develop more refined riding skills. I also appreciated the service provided by Kent Saddlery, and more specifically that I could talk to the saddle maker with my requirements and he understood what I needed and delivered what I wanted. The more I use it the better I like it. Well done for a great saddle and great service." Kerry Kreutzer
Rosebrook, NSW |
Renee and A Knights Top Range 'Ranger' at Boonah Draft.
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+61 7 4681 4220
1800 651 535 |
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