[HairOfTheDog]

I would tend to agree that the really quality saddles will last a lifetime if she went that way... My Stuebben was a lifetime saddle but it didn't fit when I moved to Bay.

But I think for her purpose, it doesn't hurt to get a cheaper starter saddle for $400 or less and find out, in the life of that saddle, whether she wants to ride english or not. Right now she doesn't know... it isn't going to hurt to try a cheaper saddle as long as it fits her horse.

I don't know the brand Kincaid... I bought a Wintech, which is entirely synthetic, for about the same price. If it only lasts a short number of years, it still only cost $400. At that price you can afford to replace it in 5 years, or on my next horse, if this one is not right for my next situation.

[AnAmericanMother]

Absolutely agree that she should start with a low price saddle.

My point is that if you go to used, you can get a better saddle for the same money - I found this Stuebben Siegfried on line in Pennsylvania (Bucks County Saddlery - I've actually been there!) for $350. It's well worn but it looks like there's a lot of life left in it.