Bestsellers
Arena Saddles & Tack | Emmers Equestrian
Arena is a European leather saddle brand that sits between its two better-known sister brands, Wintec and Bates, under the same saddlery group, more affordable than a premium leather Bates but built with proper leather rather than Wintec's synthetic construction. The range covers general-purpose, jumping, and dressage saddles, including pony and cob-fit options, with an adjustable gullet system that lets a fitter change the tree width as your horse's shape changes. That middle position is exactly the point: you get real leather and an adjustable fit system without paying full premium-brand pricing.
It's a sensible choice if you want something more adjustable than a traditional saddle but don't need the very top tier of customization and finish.
The right saddle is essential for your horse’s comfort, freedom of movement and performance, and its fit can change as your horse’s shape and fitness develop. Whether you’re choosing a new saddle or checking your current one, discover the Emmers Equestrian Saddle Fitting Service for expert advice tailored to both horse and rider.
Tips for Choosing
- Match the saddle to your discipline first; general purpose, jump, and dressage models are shaped differently, so pick based on how you actually ride rather than on price alone.
- If your horse has an unusual conformation (cob-type, high withers, or a pony build), check whether Arena's specific fit option for that shape is available before assuming a standard model will work.
- Have the gullet width and overall fit confirmed by a qualified saddle fitter at purchase, the adjustable system is a genuine advantage, but only if it's set correctly for your horse to begin with.
- If you expect your horse's shape to change with fitness or season, ask about keeping a spare gullet width on hand, since that's what the adjustable system is designed for.
- Treat Arena as the middle ground between synthetic and full premium leather, a good fit if you want real leather and adjustability without stretching to top-tier pricing.
Frequently asked questions
How does Arena compare to Wintec and Bates?
It's positioned between them, leather construction like Bates, but at a more accessible price point than Bates' premium range, and a step up in materials from Wintec's synthetic saddles.
Can the fit be adjusted as my horse changes shape?
Yes, Arena uses an interchangeable gullet system, so a saddle fitter can change the tree width rather than you needing a different saddle.
Does Arena make saddles for ponies or unusual conformations?
Yes, alongside standard models, there are specific options for pony, cob and high-wither builds, which is worth checking if your horse doesn't fit a standard shape.
Do I still need a saddle fitter if the gullet is adjustable?
Yes, the adjustable system changes how fit is maintained over time, but a fitter still needs to set it correctly for your horse in the first place.
Is Arena suitable for competition use?
Yes, the range covers general-purpose, jumping, and dressage models built for regular training and competition use.
How should I care for the leather?
Clean and condition it as you would any quality leather saddle, checking the gullet and riser fittings periodically to make sure nothing has loosened with use.
You'll find the Arena saddle range at Emmers Equestrian.