Posted 2014-10-09 4:07 PM Subject: Bear Trap Saddle Owners - How Far Under The Swells Should Your Legs Be?
Location: midwest mama
I want to order a new bear trap saddle and I am not sure what size seat to get.
I have an old one that is a 14" and my legs are tucked way up under the front swells with only 1/4" - 1/2" between my leg and the front of the saddle. I'm in there pretty tight.
I'm wondering if that is too tight or not. I know if a saddle seat is too small the back of the saddle can hit you in the behind and pop you forward. Does anyone know how far under the swells your legs should be in a bear trap saddle?
I am 5' tall and weigh between 115-118 lbs. depending on the day. :)
Posted 2014-10-09 4:36 PM Subject: RE: Bear Trap Saddle Owners - How Far Under The Swells Should Your Legs Be?
I'm a Cry Baby
Posts: 3781 Location: n.c.
My legs sit right behind the swells. About 1 finger, or 1.5 if that makes sense. Mine is a 15". first one I had was a 14.75. Fit good, but not moving around excessively and you can still come out of it. As small as you are, a 14 or 14.5 should be a good fit.
Posted 2014-10-10 7:53 AM Subject: RE: Bear Trap Saddle Owners - How Far Under The Swells Should Your Legs Be?
Expert
Posts: 1631 Location: Somewhere around here
My second saddle was a barrel bear trap and I loved it. I was a teenager back then though and I was able to fit into a 14 pretty well. I"m 5'4" and 130lbs and for me I'd say a 15 would fit me pretty darn well. For you though I give a for 14.5. Just depends on how tight you want to be in there.
Posted 2014-10-10 8:13 AM Subject: RE: Bear Trap Saddle Owners - How Far Under The Swells Should Your Legs Be?
Elite Veteran
Posts: 618 Location: At home with the rents, somewhere in Indiana
I just won a Diamond Cross Saddle that is a "bear claw" (the swell is not as long as a bear trap) And so far, I really like it. I never thought I would since I've never ridden in one. I'm 5'7 and about 140# - the saddle is a 15" I don't feel like I'm swimming in it by any means.. I usually ride in a 14"... I also don't feel like my legs are trapped under the swells in the bear claw. You should check out their saddles, they're gorgeous and very affordable!
Bear Trap Saddle Owners - How Far Under The Swells Should Your Legs Be?
for 14.5. Just depends on how tight you want to be in there.