The PJ Saddles are
all made using carefully selected fine leather,
providing exceptional longevity and an ideal link with the horse.
Advice before the
first use:
- Coat the whole saddle with quality liquid oil (ox-hoof oil for
example).
This oil will darken the leather - this is normal depending on the
softness
you desire. Repeat this procedure especially on the inside of the
flap. Be
sure to let the leather completely dry after oiling.
- After each use, apply glycerin soap, with a sponge that is barely
wet,
over the entire saddle.
- Reapply oil only if the leather becomes very dry or is not soft
enough.
Dry and brittle leather has lost its quality and will never recover
its
softness.
- On the other hand, too much oil on the leather may cause it to
become
too soft, and it may take the wrong shape. Basically, a good first
oiling
followed by using glycerin soap to clean the saddle, will preserve
the
quality of the leather.
First use:
- A new saddle needs to get its position on the horse’s back, and
the rider
needs to find his/her right position on the saddle as well.
- During the first hour avoid thick pads between the saddle and the
horse's
back. However, make sure there isn't any contact with the horse's
withers.
- Retighten the girth in several steps. During the first hour of
use, stand up
on your stirrups, and allow the tree to ease. You can sit when you
feel the
saddle has taken its correct position. This stage is quite short,
about one
hour.
- If you have problems with the saddle tipping back because of the
conformation of your horse, the PJ Pad designed is designed to work
with
the PJ Saddles.
Regular use:
- Avoid wearing chaps of rough leather that are hard-wearing but
also
scratchy and can damage your saddle. For the same reason, make sure
there is no remaining sand or dirt on the leather after use.
- When the saddle has become wet from rain, let it dry completely
before
applying glycerin soap. Apply oil only if the leather becomes rigid.
- Store in a dry and slightly warm room.
- Do not store leather folded or leather will become brittle along
the folds.
- Do not leave a wet saddle pad underneath the saddle after use.
- Make sure your saddle is well covered when not in use.
Following this advice will increase your saddle's durability and
your
pleasure!