Acavallo Gel Out Seat Saver Review

   

Amazingly this is something that I'd never seen or heard of online before it was mentioned to me on the yard. At first I was very much confused and put off by the idea of having so much gel on the seat. I always thought it wouldn't give you much movement in the saddle or I'd be stuck not being able to do any rising with my trot. 

But then one day I actually realised that I was spending my time correcting myself in the saddle quite a bit due to it being slippy, and it was worse when it came to the rare time I gave my tack a clean. I then found that I could only ride comfortably when I had full seat breeches on, and with the price tag of these I thought I'd do some research into this seat saver.

I found out that it's unique breathable gel construction supports the body of the rider by stabilising the bones and prevents and unnecessary movement. It also majorly reduces concussion in the lower back, helping people with any back problems. It's discreet and easy to fit, and helps the rider stay secure while training or hacking and helps achieve a deep and stable seat. They are also British Dressage legal. 

After having a bit of a research and reading some reviews I found there was also a gel in version to where the gel is on the inner side of the seat saver and sticks to the saddle rather than your bum. The upper part which you sit on which this one was like a suede material, so it would give you some extra grip in the saddle compared to a naked saddle but not as much as the gel out one. My mum then decided to invest into a gel out seat saver for Cloudy, this was back when I was riding him and decided to give it ago. At first I was sold on the idea and found it weird to sit on, but the more I was riding Cloudy I actually came around to the idea and felt more comfortable and secure in the saddle, granted he decided to throw me off twice in one schooling session not long after but I stayed on much longer with it that I probably would've without. 

I was then on the hunt to buy one for Legacy, and I got hers in black and in the medium size. There are 3 sizes available they come in pony (15-16"), medium (16.5-17") and large (17.5-18") and available in 2 colours of black and brown. You can get them in 2 different cuts gp/jumping and dressage. 

This seat saver has saved me from going flying off Legacy quite a few times where she likes to have her moments and bolt off or when I ask her for trot and she decides to canter. It has also offered me some security in the saddle when it comes to hacking out as she does like to nap and then go or she will play up in the road. These are also great for big moving horses as they will help keep you still in the saddle.

I would not like to ride a horse without one of these as I have become reliant on how secure this makes me feel in the saddle, I think it would feel like I was learning to ride again in a way without one of these. I would recommend these to anyone all day long and I can't rave about them enough. With the price of them starting from £60, it can be quite a bit for an initial outlay but I would say it's 100% worth the investment. They last for years if looked after the right way and if you do get one I will be shocked if there is anyone not happy with it, and also you'll then be the one not wanting to ride without it.

I have looked around for the best prices for you all and I have found a few of the gel out ones on eBay here. This link includes both the gel in and gel out seat savers. Most of these offer free postage which is a great added bonus with the amount being spent.