Bruno Delgrange PJ Saddle
Bruno Delgrange is a famous French saddle maker and makes one of the best hunter jumper saddle lines available. The saddles are designed by famed Olympic trainer Pierre Jolicoeur and are sometimes called PJ saddles. They were first introduced in the 1980's and have since become a favorite of professional and amateur hunter jumper riders alike. Why, you ask? Bruno Delgrange PJ saddles are close contact saddles but also offer the comfort of squishy, squeezable, balloon-like flaps and usually front and rear blocks. Saddles are a very personal matter, but many riders agree that the design of the Bruno Delgrange PJ saddles create excellent hip-to-heel balance, allowing the rider to feel comfortable and secure in the saddle and improving rider position. There are 3 different versions of the PJ available commercially in the United States. Custom Bruno Delgrange PJ saddles are also available. The Bruno Delgrange PJ models include: The Original PJ, the PJ Lite, and the PJ Pro (the European equivalent of which is the Partition). The original PJ has a deeper seat than a typical close contact saddle. The PJ Lite has a shallow, more traditional seat and the PJ Pro has a medium deep seat and is favored by European jumper riders. All Bruno Delgrange PJs are the epitome of leather quality and good craftsmanship. To own a PJ is a delight and you will find many loyal PJ owners. Another nice feature of these saddles is that each is stamped with a serial number and the size. For example, 951030 is the 1,030th saddle made in 1995. Most PJ saddles tend to run a bit small. Most riders considering a PJ should look for a saddle about ½ a seat larger that your regular size. Bruno Delgrange PJ saddles are pricey like most French saddles. They retail at about $4,000. However, if you invest in a PJ that fits you and your horse well, it might be the tack investment of a lifetime! Also, it is important to note that PJs retain their value very well. It is not uncommon for a used PJ to sell for over $2000. If you are looking for a high end saddle to pamper you and your horse, look no further than the Bruno Delgrange PJ Saddle line. Back to saddle reviews.