Description of the Wintec 500

Since 1986, Australia-based Wintec has provided riders with an affordable alternative to leather with its line of lightweight, weatherproof synthetic saddles. In the late 1990s, the company debuted its new-generation Wintec 500 English saddles. The brand differs from its predecessors by featuring a more traditional appearance and feel. A number of modern improvements have been added to enhance the saddle's fit and function.

  1. Origin

    • The Wintec 500 was developed as an improvement over earlier models. The original all-purpose English saddles were suitable for riding on the flat and over fences, and were covered in fabric that came in black, blue, pink, red, gray and yellow. While sold worldwide, the saddles had a tendency to fade, wear unevenly and separate at the seams. By the time the Wintec 500 debuted in 1998, the company had developed Equileather, a high-performance, long-lasting material that emulates leather, but requires little maintenance.

    Advancements

    • A number of features set the Wintec 500 apart from older models. In response to rider feedback in the United States and Europe, the Wintec 500 comes with a traditional open flap and short billets. Earlier models had a one-piece flap and long billets. The Wintec 500 also has built-in knee blocks for more support, a molded urethane foam seat and an interchangeable gullet system that allows one saddle to fit a variety of horses.

    Function

    • The Wintec 500 comes in several models, including all-purpose, dressage, jumping and close-contact, all of which weigh less than 20 lbs. Seat sizes range from 14 to 16 inches for the pony-sized saddles, and 16 1/2 to 18 inches in the adult models. Color choices include brown and black, plus caramel in the close-contact model. The interchangeable gullet system, coupled with the Elastiflex tree, allows for six size options, from narrow to extra wide. The saddle panels are also available in an optional CAIR Cushion System that, unlike traditional flocked panels, features air-filled panels.

    Additional Features

    • In 2009, the Wintec 500 line received further improvements. The third-generation saddles feature a more ergonomic stirrup bar, an adjustable FlexiBloc rider support system, easier access to the interchangeable gullet plates, Equigrip material on the saddle panels to prevent saddle pad slippage and short triple girth points to improve saddle stability and comfort for the horse. At time of publication, Wintec 500 models were available for less than $500. Fittings such as stirrup leathers, girths and bridles are also available to match the saddles.

    Care and Maintenance

    • Unlike leather saddles, the Wintec 500 does not require the application of oil and conditioners. Care is minimal; simply wipe off the saddle with a damp cloth. The saddles are even able to withstand being hosed off and allowed to dry. Wintec also makes a spray cleaner, which it claims is specially formulated to remove stubborn stains and keep saddles looking like new.