Hallie Eskey

Product Designer + Artist

catalyst

cassina Vinyasa

Redbull Jumpstart

Scadpro x skullcandy

hive

catalyst

A next-gen performance jumping saddle, driven by technology.

Check out my story on Good Grit Magazine

problem

Materials + Manufacturing

Saddles have been made with the same materials for centuries, and they typically feel heavy and bulky. In the Middle Ages, saddle structures were made of wood and steel, which is how many companies still make them today.

Saddle fitting relies on trained representatives, making it costly for the companies and prone to human error. Saddles are typically made in Europe, and the process of getting a saddle custom-made is long and challenging. Requiring specialized artisan craftsmen, today’s saddles are difficult to make and adjust.

Fit + Performance

When a saddle doesn’t fit properly, it leads to a cycle of discomfort and miscommunication between horse and rider.

“[Saddle fit] contributes to sourness and other stress. It can affect the quality of the movement and ultimately can affect [the horse’s] interest in jumping.” - Kalli Smith, Pro

In a scientific study by the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, modified saddles reduced pressures, resulting in greater shoulder and carpal flexion and higher fetlock height during jumps

solution

Custom-Fit Technology

Catalyst leverages modern technology to achieve a personalized fit. Using a lidar 3D scanner, each horse is brought into CAD. The curves of the tree and the cushioning are modeled for the specific horse. The same technology can be applied to the rider. This method of fitting saddles offers more precision than current hand-measuring methods.

Parametric Structure

By 3D printing the tree, parametric design is possible. Designed with a custom lattice, the structure of the saddle absorbs the shock of impact for the horse and rider.

Exposed parametric structure, forward flap and flat seat for jumping

Integrated stirrup bar, perforated leather knee roll, cutout for excess stirrup leather

Position supporting leg blocks, two-layer color panel for durability and aesthetics

Lightweight, flexible and shock absorbent lattice structure. Angled panels for free shoulder movement in jumping.

color, material, finish

3D Printed Carbon Fiber

The saddle tree being made of carbon allows for lightweight strength and flexibility.

High Quality Cow Leather

Traditionally used to make saddles, leather is durable and ages beautifully. It is a sustainable material, a byproduct of the beef industry.

Color

Traditional saddles are brown and black, but Catalyst would be made in a range of bold color palettes, such as this soft blue and deep red combination.

a new way to make saddles

Sustainable, Streamlined Manufacturing

Catalyst is made with a minimum of parts, blending traditional craft with new technology. Using rivets rather than synthetic adhesives, Catalyst is sustainable and easily disassembled.