In the short term

I had a pretty good ride last night, but I think I've deduced conclusively (proved empirically?) that the Isabell works for me, but not for Clover. Even though last night was just the second time I had it back on her, I could tell it wasn't going to work, even with the widest gullet plate in it. Back to the treeless--until I can find the cash or means to acquire the right saddle. I've learned a lot about what works and what doesn't, for me and for Clover, and I think what I'm going to have to do it buy a well-made (meaning expensive) treed saddle and have it checked by a good fitter once or twice a year. Duh.

But for now the treeless is going to have to do, and I'm going to have to suck it up and deal with an all-purpose and lack of positional stability (ok, my seat sucks). Last night's ride started out ok, but when I started doing more canter work, it started to go south. Clover got tenser, tighter through her back and shorter strided, and started to rush through my hands, So that's that.