Bestsellers
Wintec Saddles & Tack | Emmers Equestrian
Wintec pioneered the synthetic saddle back in 1986 and is still best known for its lightweight, easy-to-clean saddles that sit as the accessible, synthetic sibling to leather brands like Bates and Arena under the same saddlery group. The range at Emmers spans dressage, all-purpose, and pony/kids saddles, built around Wintec's own CAIR air-panel cushioning and an adjustable Easy-Change gullet and riser system instead of traditional wool flocking.
That combination is the real reason to consider Wintec over a leather saddle: no flocking to maintain, a gullet that can be measured and adjusted as your horse's shape changes, and a saddle that copes far better with mud, rain and general riding-school wear than leather does. It won't give you the same classic feel as leather, but for durability, low maintenance, and value, it's a genuinely practical choice.
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
- Choose dressage or all-purpose based on your actual riding, since seat shape and flap cut differ between Wintec's models just as they would with any leather saddle.
- Have the Easy-Change gullet and riser set correctly for your horse at purchase; it's adjustable but still needs setting properly rather than left on a default width.
- If you ride in consistently wet or muddy conditions, or share a saddle across multiple horses, synthetic construction is a genuine practical advantage over leather here.
- For a child or lighter rider, check the dedicated pony and kids models rather than assuming a downsized adult saddle will fit as well.
- Don't expect synthetic to feel exactly like leather underseat; it's a different material with its own advantages, not an imitation leather feel.
Frequently asked questions
How is Wintec different from Bates or Arena?
All three sit under the same saddlery group, but Wintec is the synthetic option, while Bates is premium leather and Arena sits in leather's middle tier, so the choice comes down to material and budget.
What does the CAIR system actually do?
It uses air-filled panels instead of wool flocking, spreading pressure evenly across the horse's back and adjusting to movement without needing refilling or re-flocking.
Can the fit be adjusted as my horse changes shape?
Yes, the Easy-Change system lets you adjust the gullet and riser width, though it's worth having a saddle fitter confirm the setting is right for your horse.
Is a synthetic saddle as durable as leather?
It's different rather than worse, synthetic holds up well to damp, mud and heavy use, though leather is generally seen as the more traditional, longer-lived choice with proper care.
Are Wintec saddles suitable for competition?
Yes, the range includes genuine dressage and all-purpose competition models, including versions associated with professional riders.
How do I clean a synthetic saddle?
It's generally easier than leather; wipe it down with water and a mild cleaner as needed, without the regular conditioning and oiling leather requires.
You'll find the Wintec saddle range at Emmers Equestrian.