One of the things that makes Harry Dabbs saddles so versatile is the range of tree shapes available. Rather than using a "one tree fits all" approach, Harry Dabbs have developed several different tree designs to suit different conformations, from high-withered Thoroughbreds through to broad Warmbloods and flat-backed native types.
Understanding the differences can help narrow down which saddles may be worth considering, although the final fit should always be assessed on the individual horse.
Table of Content
Quick Harry Dabbs Tree Comparison
| Tree | Typical Horse Shape |
|---|---|
| Avant | Thoroughbred type, withers, rising topline |
| Italiano | Broad horse with topline rise, narrow twist feel |
| Extra | Warmblood, high wither, flatter back |
| IB | Broad horse with gradual rise towards croup |
| XF | Withered horse that stays flatter for longer |
| Pro Jump | Broader jumping horse with significant topline rise |
| Hunter | Flat-backed horse with little or no wither |
Harry Dabbs Avant Tree
The Avant tree is designed for horses with a more traditional sport horse or Thoroughbred shape.
- Defined withers
- A back that rises gradually towards the croup
- Good overall topline flow
- More angular frame
Often suits:
- Thoroughbreds
- Thoroughbred crosses
- Blood-type sport horses
- Horses with prominent withers and natural topline rise
Harry Dabbs IB Tree
The IB tree is one of the most widely used Harry Dabbs tree shapes.
It features:
- A very open head
- Broad front arch
- Panel profile designed for horses with natural flow through the back
Unlike flatter tree designs, the IB works best where the horse gradually rises towards the last rib and croup.
Often suits:
- Broad horses
- Warmbloods
- Irish Sports Horses
- Horses with a naturally uphill or rising back profile
Harry Dabbs Italiano Tree
The Italiano tree was developed for broader horses that still have some rise through the back. Compared to the IB tree, it features:
- A flatter rail profile
- A more angular head
- A narrower-feeling twist for the rider
Often suits:
- Broader sport horses
- Warmblood types
- Horses with a wide ribcage but some topline rise
- Riders who dislike a wide feeling seat
Harry Dabbs Extra Tree
The Extra tree was specifically developed for Warmblood-type horses.
Typical characteristics include:
- Higher withers
- Broad frame
- Relatively flat back
- Larger shoulder structure
The tree features a more open head to accommodate wider shoulder and wither structures while maintaining support along a flatter back profile.
- Warmbloods
- Competition horses
- Larger framed sport horses
- Horses with high withers and flatter backs
Harry Dabbs Hunter Tree
The Hunter tree is designed for flatter-backed horses with minimal wither definition.
Typical characteristics include:
- Flat back
- Broad ribcage
- Little or no wither
- Level topline
The flatter tree profile and panel shape help provide greater contact and stability on horses that often struggle with more curved tree designs.
Often suits:
- Cobs
- Native breeds
- Flat-backed leisure horses
- Horses with low or minimal withers
Harry Dabbs XF Tree
The XF tree is less commonly encountered but fills an important gap within the range. It shares some similarities with the Avant tree but offers:
- More support through the mid-back
- A flatter profile for longer
- Accommodation for horses with withers that don't immediately rise through the back
Think of it as sitting somewhere between the Avant and flatter Warmblood-oriented trees.
Often suits:
- Higher-withered horses
- Sport horses with a longer, flatter back
- Horses that don't fit neatly into either Avant or Extra profiles
Harry Dabbs Pro Jump
The Pro Jump tree is designed specifically with jumping horses in mind.
It shares some similarities with the Italiano tree but features:
- More curvature through the tree
- A more upswept panel profile
- Additional accommodation for horses that rise significantly through the back
Often suits:
- Jumping horses
- Event horses
- Broader horses with pronounced topline rise
- Horses requiring more rear panel clearance
Which Harry Dabbs Tree Does My Horse Need?
While these descriptions provide a useful starting point, it's important to remember that no two horses are identical. Horses can change shape through work, age, fitness and muscle development, and many sit somewhere between two tree profiles.
If you're unsure which Harry Dabbs tree may suit your horse, our team can help assess your horse's conformation and recommend suitable options for trial.
Harry Dabbs Saddle Tree FAQs
What is the difference between the Harry Dabbs IB and Italiano trees?
The IB tree features a wider, more open head and is designed for broad horses with natural rise through the back. The Italiano tree offers a similar fit profile but uses flatter rails and a more angular head, creating a narrower-feeling twist for the rider.
Which Harry Dabbs tree suits a Thoroughbred?
Many Thoroughbreds suit the Avant tree due to its wither clearance, flowing profile and upswept rear panel design.
Which Harry Dabbs tree suits a Warmblood?
Warmbloods commonly suit either the Extra, IB or Italiano trees depending on their topline, shoulder shape and wither profile.
Which Harry Dabbs tree suits a flat-backed horse?
The Hunter tree is generally designed for flatter-backed horses with little to no wither definition.
