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Top 5 Synthetic Close Contact Saddles with Removable Knee and Thigh Blocks in Canada 2025: Expert-Reviewed Buyer Guide to Fit, Modularity, and Training Progress

Published on Monday, August 25, 2025

Synthetic close contact saddles with removable knee and thigh blocks are designed to let riders customize leg contact, support and balance during progressive training. These saddles combine a close-contact panel and a streamlined seat with modular blocks that can be repositioned or removed to match changing skill levels, training goals and horse conformation. In Canada, buyers favor synthetic models for consistent fit, lower maintenance, better moisture resistance in wet and cold climates, and lower cost than equivalent leather saddles. Riders training across disciplines appreciate the ability to start with more support for stability, then remove or reduce blocks as independent position develops. Other consumer preferences include lightweight construction for easier handling, durable synthetics that resist Canadian weather and indoor arena dust, and models with reliable flocking or air systems that simplify saddle fitting and adjustment.

Quick Menu

1. Best CAIR Comfort

2. Best Budget Training

3. Best High-Wither Fit

4. Best Adjustable Tree

5. Best Entry-Level Pro Style

1
BEST CAIR COMFORT

Wintec 500 Close Contact Saddle with CAIR

Wintec (Wintec 500 Close Contact with CAIR)

The Wintec 500 Close Contact with CAIR earns its spot for combining a lightweight synthetic close-contact panel with the CAIR air-cell system, offering superior shock absorption and horse comfort during high-volume training sessions. It is typically more affordable and widely stocked than many premium synthetics, making it a practical choice for trainers who need consistent fit and quick turnaround between horses compared with the boutique-adjustable or higher-end options on this list.

4.5
★★★★☆

  • CAIR cushioning — cloudlike feel

  • Ultra-lightweight — hops easy

  • CAIR cushioning — cloudlike feel

  • Ultra-lightweight — hops easy

Review Summary

88%

"Users praise the Wintec 500 CAIR for consistent comfort, low maintenance, and secure close-contact feel, with removable knee/thigh blocks that work well for jumping and flatwork. Long-term users note the CAIR panel holds up well but some prefer wool for fine flocking adjustments."

  • Close-contact fit — aids cues

  • Close-contact synthetic seat with CAIR panel for even pressure distribution during training.

  • Close-contact fit — aids cues

  • Close-contact synthetic seat with CAIR panel for even pressure distribution during training.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Skill Development & Mastery

Time-Saving Convenience

The Wintec 500 Close Contact with CAIR earns its spot for combining a lightweight synthetic close-contact panel with the CAIR air-cell system, offering superior shock absorption and horse comfort during high-volume training sessions. It is typically more affordable and widely stocked than many premium synthetics, making it a practical choice for trainers who need consistent fit and quick turnaround between horses compared with the boutique-adjustable or higher-end options on this list.

  • CAIR cushioning — cloudlike feel

  • Ultra-lightweight — hops easy

  • Close-contact fit — aids cues

  • Close-contact synthetic seat with CAIR panel for even pressure distribution during training.

  • Removable knee and thigh blocks that allow customization of support and rider position.

  • CAIR cushioning — cloudlike feel

  • Ultra-lightweight — hops easy

  • Close-contact fit — aids cues

  • Close-contact synthetic seat with CAIR panel for even pressure distribution during training.

  • Removable knee and thigh blocks that allow customization of support and rider position.

Order Now

$900-1200 CAD

2
BEST BUDGET TRAINING

Thorowgood T8 Close Contact Saddle

Thorowgood (Thorowgood T8 Close Contact)

The Thorowgood T8 stands out as a rugged, budget-conscious close-contact saddle that still provides a near-leather feel with easy-to-fit synthetic panels and removable knee and thigh blocks tailored for flatwork and schooling. Its technical advantage is a simple, durable build and reliable fit options that make it economically attractive for barns managing multiple mounts, whereas some pricier models trade off that cost-efficiency for higher levels of customization.

4.3
★★★★☆

  • Adjustable gullet — quick tweak

  • Rugged synthetic — mudproof grin

  • Adjustable gullet — quick tweak

  • Rugged synthetic — mudproof grin

Review Summary

86%

"Riders report the Thorowgood T8 as a well-built, comfortable synthetic close-contact saddle with good tree options and removable blocks, offering excellent value for regular use. Some find it a bit firmer than premium leather saddles but very durable for training and lessons."

  • Balanced seat — steady ride

  • Durable synthetic construction designed for everyday training use and frequent cleaning.

  • Balanced seat — steady ride

  • Durable synthetic construction designed for everyday training use and frequent cleaning.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Time-Saving Convenience

Skill Development & Mastery

The Thorowgood T8 stands out as a rugged, budget-conscious close-contact saddle that still provides a near-leather feel with easy-to-fit synthetic panels and removable knee and thigh blocks tailored for flatwork and schooling. Its technical advantage is a simple, durable build and reliable fit options that make it economically attractive for barns managing multiple mounts, whereas some pricier models trade off that cost-efficiency for higher levels of customization.

  • Adjustable gullet — quick tweak

  • Rugged synthetic — mudproof grin

  • Balanced seat — steady ride

  • Durable synthetic construction designed for everyday training use and frequent cleaning.

  • Comes with removable knee and thigh blocks to adjust rider security and leg stability.

  • Adjustable gullet — quick tweak

  • Rugged synthetic — mudproof grin

  • Balanced seat — steady ride

  • Durable synthetic construction designed for everyday training use and frequent cleaning.

  • Comes with removable knee and thigh blocks to adjust rider security and leg stability.

Order Now

$700-1000 CAD

3
BEST HIGH-WITHER FIT

Arena High Wither Close Contact HART Saddle

Arena (Arena High Wither Close Contact HART)

The Arena High Wither HART model is positioned for horses with pronounced withers, using a shaped close-contact tree and HART-panel technology to maintain clearance and even pressure under intensive training. It commands a mid-to-high price but justifies that with a focused anatomical fit and premium synthetic skin that reduces friction—advantages over more generic close-contact designs when consistent high-wither comfort is a training priority.

3.9
★★★☆☆

  • High-wither cut — no pinch

  • HART shock panels — plush pop

  • High-wither cut — no pinch

  • HART shock panels — plush pop

Review Summary

78%

"Owners of the Arena High Wither HART saddle appreciate its fit for high-wither horses and effective close-contact paneling, with removable knee/thigh blocks that help position riders. Reviews are mixed on long-term durability and finish quality compared with higher-end synthetics."

  • Close-contact seat — precise cues

  • High-wither panel shape and synthetic HART technology to fit horses with pronounced withers.

  • Close-contact seat — precise cues

  • High-wither panel shape and synthetic HART technology to fit horses with pronounced withers.

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

Skill Development & Mastery

The Arena High Wither HART model is positioned for horses with pronounced withers, using a shaped close-contact tree and HART-panel technology to maintain clearance and even pressure under intensive training. It commands a mid-to-high price but justifies that with a focused anatomical fit and premium synthetic skin that reduces friction—advantages over more generic close-contact designs when consistent high-wither comfort is a training priority.

  • High-wither cut — no pinch

  • HART shock panels — plush pop

  • Close-contact seat — precise cues

  • High-wither panel shape and synthetic HART technology to fit horses with pronounced withers.

  • Removable, positionable knee and thigh blocks for tailored rider support during schooling.

  • High-wither cut — no pinch

  • HART shock panels — plush pop

  • Close-contact seat — precise cues

  • High-wither panel shape and synthetic HART technology to fit horses with pronounced withers.

  • Removable, positionable knee and thigh blocks for tailored rider support during schooling.

Order Now

$1100-1500 CAD

4
BEST ADJUSTABLE TREE

Synthetic Innovations Adjusta Close Contact Saddle

Generic

The Synthetic Innovations Adjusta Close Contact saddle is the most configurable option, offering adjustable gullets, an interchangeable tree system and removable knee and thigh blocks that let trainers tune the rider-horse interface as the horse changes through training cycles. Though its upfront cost can be higher than basic synthetics, the long-term value from modular parts and re-fitability makes it financially smart for programs that need one saddle to serve multiple horses or evolving body shapes.

4.1
★★★★☆

  • Fully adjustable tree — chameleon fit

  • Removable blocks — tweakable train

  • Fully adjustable tree — chameleon fit

  • Removable blocks — tweakable train

Review Summary

82%

"The Synthetic Innovations Adjusta gets credit for its adjustable fit, practical removable knee and thigh blocks, and overall comfort for varied horses, making it a favorite for clubs and trainers. Some users mention it feels less refined than premium brands but is reliable and easy to maintain."

  • Synthetic easy-care — quick scrub

  • Fully adjustable tree system to accommodate changing horse shapes and precise fit tuning.

  • Synthetic easy-care — quick scrub

  • Fully adjustable tree system to accommodate changing horse shapes and precise fit tuning.

Time-Saving Convenience

Skill Development & Mastery

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

The Synthetic Innovations Adjusta Close Contact saddle is the most configurable option, offering adjustable gullets, an interchangeable tree system and removable knee and thigh blocks that let trainers tune the rider-horse interface as the horse changes through training cycles. Though its upfront cost can be higher than basic synthetics, the long-term value from modular parts and re-fitability makes it financially smart for programs that need one saddle to serve multiple horses or evolving body shapes.

  • Fully adjustable tree — chameleon fit

  • Removable blocks — tweakable train

  • Synthetic easy-care — quick scrub

  • Fully adjustable tree system to accommodate changing horse shapes and precise fit tuning.

  • Interchangeable knee and thigh blocks that can be repositioned or removed for training needs.

  • Fully adjustable tree — chameleon fit

  • Removable blocks — tweakable train

  • Synthetic easy-care — quick scrub

  • Fully adjustable tree system to accommodate changing horse shapes and precise fit tuning.

  • Interchangeable knee and thigh blocks that can be repositioned or removed for training needs.

Order Now
From 498.15$
5
BEST ENTRY-LEVEL PRO STYLE

EquiRoyal Pro Am Close Contact Saddle

EquiRoyal (Pro Am Close Contact)

The EquiRoyal Pro Am Close Contact is presented as the market-leader premium synthetic for intense training, combining high-grade synthetic materials, precise panel shaping and a comprehensive removable knee/thigh block system for fine rider positioning. It sits at the top of the price range but offers best-in-class finish, durability and adjustability for professional trainers who prioritize longevity and maximum performance benefits over initial cost savings.

3.8
★★★☆☆

  • Pro-cut panels — show boost

  • Detachable knee blocks — custom hold

  • Pro-cut panels — show boost

  • Detachable knee blocks — custom hold

Review Summary

74%

"EquiRoyal Pro Am is commonly noted as a budget-friendly close-contact synthetic with removable blocks that suit occasional riders and training sessions, though some long-term users report stitching and wear issues. Overall it’s seen as a decent low-cost option but not as durable or refined as market leaders."

  • Sleek finish — ring-ready wink

  • Affordable synthetic close-contact saddle that mimics pro-style geometry for training riders.

  • Sleek finish — ring-ready wink

  • Affordable synthetic close-contact saddle that mimics pro-style geometry for training riders.

Skill Development & Mastery

Recreational Enjoyment

Enhanced Physical Well-Being

The EquiRoyal Pro Am Close Contact is presented as the market-leader premium synthetic for intense training, combining high-grade synthetic materials, precise panel shaping and a comprehensive removable knee/thigh block system for fine rider positioning. It sits at the top of the price range but offers best-in-class finish, durability and adjustability for professional trainers who prioritize longevity and maximum performance benefits over initial cost savings.

  • Pro-cut panels — show boost

  • Detachable knee blocks — custom hold

  • Sleek finish — ring-ready wink

  • Affordable synthetic close-contact saddle that mimics pro-style geometry for training riders.

  • Removable knee and thigh blocks provide adaptable support as riders develop position.

  • Pro-cut panels — show boost

  • Detachable knee blocks — custom hold

  • Sleek finish — ring-ready wink

  • Affordable synthetic close-contact saddle that mimics pro-style geometry for training riders.

  • Removable knee and thigh blocks provide adaptable support as riders develop position.

Order Now

$400-800 CAD

What Research and Evidence Say About Removable Blocks and Synthetic Saddle Design

A range of biomechanical and saddle-fit research supports the core benefits of adjustable knee and thigh blocks and modern synthetic saddle systems. Studies using saddle pressure mapping and rider motion analysis show that better rider alignment and even pressure distribution reduce peak contact points on the horse's back and help prevent compensatory movement. Synthetic materials and air or foam panel systems offer consistent panel shape and reduced moisture uptake, which helps maintain fit in damp climates. While individual rider and horse needs vary, the evidence supports using adjustable support features to promote progressive rider independence without sudden changes to horse comfort.

Pressure mapping studies indicate that even redistribution of rider weight reduces localized peak pressures, which can lower the risk of saddle-related discomfort for the horse.

Adjustable knee and thigh blocks can help beginners stabilize a correct leg position and be removed gradually to encourage independent balance as skill improves.

Air-filled or foam panel systems have been shown to maintain more consistent contact under variable humidity compared with untreated wool flocking, which can compress and shift over time.

Synthetic materials typically absorb less water and require less conditioning than leather, making them practical for Canadian conditions where indoor and outdoor riding alternate.

Good saddle fit combined with progressive reduction of artificial supports tends to yield better rider biomechanics and clearer communication with the horse over time.

In Canada, synthetic close contact saddles with removable knee and thigh blocks offer a practical, modular route for riders moving through training stages. The five models covered here each deliver that modular benefit: Wintec 500 Close Contact Saddle with CAIR, Thorowgood T8 Close Contact Saddle, Arena High Wither Close Contact HART Saddle, Synthetic Innovations Adjusta Close Contact Saddle, and EquiRoyal Pro Am Close Contact Saddle. For many Canadian riders seeking a balance of comfort, low maintenance and progressive adjustability, the Wintec 500 Close Contact Saddle with CAIR stands out as the best overall choice on this list because of its proven CAIR panel system and broad fit range. We hope you found the right direction for your search. You can refine or expand your results using the search to compare fit options, tree widths, and removable block configurations.

Discover More
  • Synthetic Close Contact Jumping Saddles for Training
  • Synthetic Close Contact Schooling Saddles for Training
  • Synthetic Close Contact Eventing Saddles for Training
  • Synthetic Close Contact Saddles for Riding Schools and Lessons
  • Synthetic Close Contact Saddles with Shock Absorbing Panels for Training

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