The Delgrange Saddles are all made in France using French materials. We only use carefully selected fine leather, providing and exceptional longevity and an ideal link with the horse.
Advice before the first use:
-Coat the whole saddle with a 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 are 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 saddles needs to get its position on the horses back, and the rider needs to fine 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 it's 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 by Pierre Jolicoeur is designed to work with the PJ Saddles by Delgrange.
Regular use:
-Avoid wearing chaps of rough leather which 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 gotten 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 no 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.
