What is the County Solution HJ saddle?
The County Solution HJ is County Saddlery’s classic dual-flap jumping saddle, handmade in England. Its defining feature is an elongated balance point that allows riders to find their perfect balance over any fence. It is built on a laminated beechwood tree and flocked with 100% pure wool — no synthetic materials.
What does “elongated balance point” mean in the County Solution HJ?
The elongated balance point refers to the extended flat area of the seat that gives the rider more room to find and maintain their optimal position over fences. In many jumping saddles, the balance point is a single defined spot — if the rider is even slightly out of position, they feel unbalanced. The Solution HJ’s elongated balance point provides a larger “sweet spot,” giving the rider more latitude to move slightly forward or back without losing their position. This is particularly valuable for riders who jump a variety of fence types and heights, where the optimal position varies.
Is the County Solution HJ suitable for hunters?
Yes. The Solution HJ is designed for both show jumping and hunters. Its elongated balance point and soft seat make it well-suited to the flowing, rhythmic style of hunter riding, where the rider must maintain a consistent, balanced position over a course of fences at a steady pace.
Is the County Solution HJ a monoflap or dual flap saddle?
The County Solution HJ is a classic dual-flap jumping saddle. It has a traditional outer flap and inner flap. Riders who prefer the traditional dual-flap feel, or who are not ready to transition to a monoflap, often choose the Solution HJ. County’s monoflap jumping saddles (Xtreme, Velocity, Xcelerator) provide closer contact but require a different girth setup.
What sizes does the County Solution HJ come in?
The County Solution HJ is available in the following specifications:
Why does the Solution HJ start at 15.5 inches when most County saddles start at 16 inches?
The Solution HJ’s wider size range (starting at 15.5 inches) reflects the fact that jumping saddles are often used by younger or smaller riders, or by riders who prefer a smaller seat size for closer contact. The 15.5-inch option makes the Solution HJ accessible to a broader range of riders than most County saddles.
How does the County Solution HJ help horses recover after jumping?
The Solution HJ’s laminated beechwood tree and pure wool flocking distribute weight evenly across the horse’s back, reducing pressure on landing. This helps the horse recover its stride more easily and maintain a more consistent pace throughout a jumping round. County’s research indicates that saddles with synthetic foam panels create more concentrated pressure points on landing, leading to fatigue and compensatory movement that affects performance.
How does the Solution HJ compare to the Next Gen monoflap jumping saddles?
The Solution HJ is County’s classic dual-flap jumping saddle. The Xtreme, Velocity, and Xcelerator are Next Gen monoflap jumping saddles. The monoflap saddles provide closer contact between the rider’s leg and the horse by eliminating the under-flap. The Solution HJ provides excellent performance in a traditional dual-flap format. Riders who prefer the traditional feel, or who are transitioning to County from another dualflap saddle, often start with the Solution HJ.
Where can I get the County Solution HJ fitted?
The County Solution HJ should be fitted by an MSA-certified County representative. You can find your nearest representative at countysaddlery.com/find-a-rep, or use County’s Virtual Saddle Fitting Program if no local representative is available. Call 877- 41-HORSE (877-414-6773) to arrange a consultation.