Choosing between two equestrian saddles & pads is less about finding one universal winner than matching the purchase to the detail you care about most. Two options can look similar on core specifications yet lead to different purchases once included items and format labels enter the picture. The useful shortcut is to separate shared specifications from the extras and limitations that actually change the choice.
Quick verdict
Bates Caprilli is the choice for shoppers who want the title's included stirrups and leathers. Its listed price is USD 1,650.00.
Antares is the price-led choice at USD 1,295.00, with the explicit Saddle Type: Jumping/Close Contact label as its format cue. The price difference is $355. The core specifications overlap, so the extras and format label do the real separating.
Compact comparison
| Product | Listed price | Color | Condition | Feature | Saddle size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bates Caprilli Close Contact | USD 1,650.00 | Brown | Used | Monoflap | 18 in |
| Antares Close Contact Jumping Saddle | USD 1,295.00 | Brown | Used | Monoflap | 18 in |
Where each product wins
- Bates Caprilli: wins when the included-system detail matters. The Easy Change Gullet System is specifically included, giving shoppers a concrete tie-breaker beyond the shared specifications.
- Antares: wins when an included cover is the useful extra. Its description names an Antares microfleece-lined saddle cover, a clear accessory distinction.
Product notes
Bates Caprilli Close Contact
The Bates Caprilli suits shoppers who place particular importance on the included Easy Change Gullet System. That named system gives it a concrete reason to choose it without assuming that a shared construction label means better performance. The listed configuration is an 18 in saddle, which is a clear limitation for anyone specifically seeking a different seat size. Brown color, Used condition, and monoflap are straightforward descriptors shared across the pair, not extra reasons to favor Bates. In short, this option's differentiator is the included system; the fit question remains tied to the listed 18 in configuration.
Antares Close Contact Jumping Saddle
Antares makes a clear case for shoppers who want a named accessory without confusing raw specifications with a ranking. Its description includes an Antares microfleece-lined saddle cover, a concrete reason to choose it for someone who wants that cover included. It also identifies a 5-inch dot-to-dot tree width, a 14-inch long/forward flap profile, and 10mm built-up panels under the pommel; these numbers are useful identifiers, but they do not establish an automatic advantage. The limitation is stated plainly: a saddle pad does not come with it. That makes the option less complete for someone who wants a pad included, while the cover remains the accessory specifically called out.
Final choice by use case
Choose Bates Caprilli when included stirrups and leathers are the deciding convenience. Choose Antares when the stated saddle-pad exclusion suits your setup and the explicit Jumping/Close Contact label matches what you are shopping for. For riders prioritizing included riding accessories, Bates is the direct match; for shoppers seeking a clearly named jumping format, Antares is the direct match.
