The Freedman’s Story
The Brand: Handcraftsmanship. Quality. And Tradition in Every Stitch. This is the legacy of Freedman’s. Our story started more than 200 years ago in 1802, and to this day, we hold to the same promise, the same commitment to excellence. Six generations of harness makers later, we are still a brand known for its legacy work in horse harness, but also for its ingenuity in show horse tack and furnishings and its emerging trends in handbags, belts, and performance riding apparel.
The brand has expanded, both in reach and product offerings. While our product offerings have changed throughout the decades, the essence of our work remains the same: quality craftsmanship with the very finest materials. With leather production in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, the Freedman name still boasts the work of artisans and leather from some of best tanneries in the world.
The Mission: To provide safe, comfortable, and wellmade horse furnishings, rider apparel, and fashion goods that meet the standards of excellence that have come to define our brand. One of our greatest accomplishments is helping riders and drivers meet their own goals. Being part of an industry of athletic and beautiful horses has engaged our way of thinking, enriching the brand beyond just what the horses need to wear, but also what the human athletes need: their riding apparel, their fashion sense, the accessories they prefer to carry.
From harnessing World and National Champion ponies and horses and making saddles for the trotting breed horses, to making harness for the famous Budweiser Clydesdales and for the Royal Family, Freedman’s strives to accomplish quality every step along the way.
The Inspiration: My grandfather Isaac and father Sam started it all. If you have ever worked for someone that had the reputation of being the best at what they did, you can imagine how my apprenticeship rolled out. My dad left me to the world after nine years of training; that’s much longer than any doctor's training time. He was a perfectionist in many ways. It wasn’t just the work we were doing that I was trained for. My apprenticeship included many facets: how to handle horses and understand the basic anatomy, along with how horse equipment should fit and operate. I was deeply schooled in how to treat people with respect and how to conduct proper business acumen. Today, horse furnishings often are designed with the
From David & Nicole Freedman
input of trainers and professionals. Their opinion is valued and their insight into the function, comfort, and fit for the horse has helped us to craft horse equipment that is desired by the industry as a whole.
The Promise: At Freedman’s, our motto is "Tradition In Every Stitch." This means our product is defined by
classic styling, attention to detail, handcraftsmanship, fit, function, service, performance, and of course, a dedication to the horses and people that we serve. The Freedman horseshoe brand with our ‘F’ logo assures our customers that we are delivering the utmost quality available to us, and we stand behind our work.
Saddles
We offer a collection of saddles for the saddle seat, hunt seat, and show hack disciplines, beautifully handcrafted by renowned master craftsmen.
Always seeking the edge in high performance, Freedman’s manufactures its saddles with our signature Super Grip leather, strong v-billet systems and shock-absorbing trees.
With rider positioning and equine comfort always top of mind, Freedman’s cutback saddles now include an all-new five-position adjustable bar system that is easy to use, allows for a wider range of leg positioning and is guaranteed for the life of the saddle.
Made to order as a World Cup HP Show Hack Saddle or Victory Pass HP Show Hack Saddle. $3,995.00
WORLD CUP HP
$3,495.00
VICTORY PASS HP
$3,495.00
CENTENNIAL HUNTER
$3,495.00
HUNTER SG
$3,495.00
SHOW HACK
Freedman’s Stabil-Flex Girth
Poised for performance.
$225.00
YOUR HORSE NEEDS TO BE ABLE TO BREATHE!
You may think a girth is just a girth. We’ve been strapping saddles into place with girths for centuries, why would we need to be selective about the type of girth we use? Then again, we all know those common girth problems: They pinch, they rub, they wear out, they stretch. Multi-pad strategies to fit a horse’s back cause overtightening of girths to keep everything in place, making the girth so uncomfortable it may require a fleece cover. Girths, while potentially seen as just a tool for keeping a saddle in place, can have a large effect on a horse’s performance. How do horses breathe? Remember, horses are obligatory nasal breathers, meaning they cannot choose to switch to breathing through their mouths during exercise to increase their oxygen consumption. A horse’s only way to breathe is through their nasal passages. As they inhale at the height of exertion, some horses’ lungs can expand all the way to the 16th rib. This means that their ribs, connected to their sternum bone, must be able to expand accordingly to allow for maximum air and oxygen intake. It is important to give our
horses room to breathe. Therefore, a properly fitting and comfortable girth is necessary for maximum performance. Overly tightened, uncomfortable girths could cause performance-related issues by inhibiting a horse’s ability to inhale fully.
SO, WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT FREEDMAN’S STABIL-FLEX GIRTH?
The Stabil-Flex Girth is a product of five years of testing and research. Allowing the horse to expand their ribs from the sternum as they breathe, this girth flexes on an independent elastic system that is positioned over the center of the sternum, not on one end or the other. The expansion and contraction of the elastic works best at the flat walk and canter. There is less expansion at the trot, as this gait is more rhythmic in motion and therefore breathing.
The elastic placed in the center also means that the girth can be tightened evenly, spreading light pressure over the sternum bone. It doesn’t need to be overly tightened or “cranked up” to keep the saddle from slipping. A secure fit is still necessary, but overtightening any girth could cause rubbing.
Essential to the correct function and
comfort of the Stabil-Flex Girth is a nonslip assembly. This means that the chosen saddle pad and saddle need to fit the horse correctly and stay in place on the horse’s back. Freedman’s recommends the Freedman Acavallo Memory Foam Gel/Silicone Pad for saddle seat and the Freedman Hunter Acavallo Memory Foam/ Silicone Pad for hunt seat, combined with a Freedman’s saddle and Stabil-Flex Girth. Other non-slip Acavallo pads can also be used in addition to the aforementioned pads to aid with pad/saddle fit. The key to the Stabil-Flex Girth’s comfort is that the pad and saddle do not slip, hence avoiding the need to overtighten the girth. Made from durable and soft leather, the Stabil-Flex Girth must be cleaned and cared for properly. It is also ergonomically shaped to fit comfortably behind the horse’s elbow and is padded with soft cowhide for ultimate smoothness against the skin. Sweat and buildup on the girth could cause pressure points and discomfort for the horse, so proper care is important. Other features include the two center d-rings for a martingale or brace cord. Offered in white patent, black, and brown leather.
Freedman’s Acavallo Memory Foam Pads
Designed exclusively for Freedman’s.
FREEDMAN CUT BACK ACAVALLO MEMORY FOAM GEL/SILICONE PAD $350.00
FREEDMAN ACAVALLO HUNTER GEL/SILICONE MEMORY FOAM PAD
with White Fleece $295.00
FREEDMAN CUT BACK ACAVALLO MEMORY FOAM GEL/BLACK ECO FLEECE PAD $350.00
FREEDMAN ACAVALLO HUNTER GEL/SILICONE MEMORY FOAM PAD
with Black Fleece $295.00
Black
Brown
Low-backed Horses: How Freedman’s Can Help
Freedman’s Acavallo Low Back Memory Foam Pads
A Possible Answer for Saddle Stability on Horses with Lordosis
Horses with lordosis, colloquially referred to as “low-backed,” often present a unique challenge to saddle fit and rider position, and even the question of whether the horse can be ridden comfortably and safely. Depending on the severity of the condition, and with an individual assessment from a consulting veterinarian, it is possible to ride these horses with proper specialty equipment.
Studies show that filling the low area, or the “well,” of the horse’s back with a fillertype pad can stabilize the saddle. The filler pad provides a stable platform to place the saddle on. At Freedman’s, we have designed two of these filler pads.
LORDOSIS. WHAT IS IT? WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND?
Lordosis refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine characterized by an exaggerated inward bend. The condition manifests primarily in the lumbar region, or lower part of the spine, resulting in the appearance of a concave or u-shaped curve in this area. This abnormality can affect many horse
breeds, including the American Saddlebred, Morgan, and Arabian horse. Various factors contribute to the condition, including genetic predisposition, conformational abnormalities, or environmental influence, such as poor nutrition or improper exercise regimens during important growth phases. Understanding lordosis and how it can affect your horse’s performance and comfort is crucial before undertaking the task of outfitting them with suitable tack. Mild cases may not significantly affect a horse’s ability to comfortably carry a rider, but more severe cases could potentially impact back strength, and therefore a horse’s ridability.
An equine healthcare professional should be consulted for proper evaluation before riding horses with possible lordosis.
HOW FREEDMAN’S CAN HELP!
If your horse has been cleared to ride, you’re probably presented with a few challenges when it comes to tack. Saddle fit and proper positioning are an important issue to address in these low-backed
horses. At Freedman’s, we’ve designed and engineered two saddle pads in collaboration with Acavallo that can create a system that is comfortable for the horse and safe for the rider.
Covered in a non-slip gel/silicone material, Freedman’s Low Back Memory Foam Gel Pad and Extreme Extra Low Back Memory Foam Gel Pad grip to the horse’s back with the gel/silicone covering. The memory foam interior helps to fill in the void of the back, creating a more level platform for the saddle pad and saddle.
These low back pads should be placed in the well of the back and used in collaboration with the Freedman’s Acavallo Memory Foam Gel/Silicone Pad. When done so, the low back pads will stick to the silicone of this second pad, creating a non-slip, level foundation for the saddle.
A Freedman’s cutback saddle can then be placed on the layered two-pad system. The silicone on the top pad will stabilize the saddle, which brings many benefits, including greater comfort for the horse and the desired “rider-ready” position for a more level and directional ride.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FREEDMAN’S TWO LOW BACK PADS?
Both pads are for horses with low backs. The Low Back Memory Foam Gel Pad measures 3.5 inches thick and is 19.5 inches long and 14 inches wide. This pad is for low-backed horses, but not those with soft backs or extreme cases of lordosis.
However, the Extreme Extra Low Back Memory Foam Gel Pad is designed for horses with an extreme inward curvature of the spine. This pad measures 4.5 inches thick and is 18 inches long and 14 inches wide. Please refer to our diagram to see the differences in back shapes and which Low Back Pad may be most suitable for your horse.
Both pads should be used in combination with Freedman’s Acavallo Memory Foam Gel/Silicone Pad for the most stability. When used in conjunction with Freedman’s complete saddle system, including the Stabil-Flex Girth, the addition of one of our Low Back Pads can make a huge difference in a horse’s performance.
Lordosis or ‘low-backed’: an abnormal curvature of the spine characterized by an exaggerated inward bend, primarily located in the lumbar region.
WHICH PAD SHOULD I USE?
Low Back Extreme Extra Low Back
Designed and engineered in cooperation with Acavallo Italy, this pad is to be used as a “well filler” on low-backed (but not soft-backed) horses.
Part of a two-pad strategy that brings optimal performance and saddle fit to low-backed horses when used in collaboration with the Freedman’s
Acavallo Memory Foam Gel/Silicone Pad.
The pad measures 3 ½ inches thick by 19 ½ inches long by 14 inches wide.
Low Back
This pad is to be used exactly as our regular Low Back Pad, but only for the extremely low-backed horse. This pad is part of a two-pad solution that brings optimal performance and fit to your saddle for extremely low-backed horses. This pad must also be used in collaboration with the Freedman’s Acavallo Memory Foam Gel/Silicone Pad.
The pad measures 4 ½ inches thick by 18 inches long by 14 inches wide.
Extreme Low Back
Topline
Leathers & Irons
Proper positioning and performance.
SOFT STIRRUP LEATHERS
¾”
Available in 48" only.
$99.00
LOGO HUNTER STIRRUP IRONS WITH PERMANENT PICK STAINLESS STEEL TREADS
Available in 3 ½”, 4”, 4 ¼”, 4 ½” & 4 ¾” widths.
$75.00
SOFT STIRRUP LEATHERS 1”
Available in 48”, 52” & 56” lengths. $139.00
EASY POST ULTRA LIGHT STIRRUPS
Available in 4”, 4 ¼” & 4 ½” widths. $50.00
Horse Furnishings
Tradition In Every Stitch
Saddle Accessories
COVERS
Available for the World Cup HP, Victory Pass HP, Hunter SG, & Centennial Hunter Saddles. $65.00
FREEDMAN'S FINE HARNESS
Trim color available in Dark Red, Burgundy, or Black. Furniture available in Brass or Chrome.
$6,500.00 - $6,750.00
HACKNEY PONY SHOW HARNESS
Available in Hackney Long Tail & Hackney Cob Tail sizes.
$5,000.00
FREEDMAN'S ROAD PONY HARNESS
Available in Dark Red, Burgundy, & Black. Furniture available in Brass or Chrome.
STARTING AT $5,000.00
Bradoons & Weymouths.
MOUTH SNAFFLE BRADOON BIT
Bridlework by Freedman’s
A collection of bridles for the saddle seat, hunter, and show hack horse. Handcrafted for a beautiful look, designed for the comfort of the horse.
Pricing reflects standard bridle options: 3/8” Flat Rein, 1/2” Laced Rein & Flat Caveson. Browband not included.
Browbands: Stand Out in the Lineup
Standard browbands are available in burgundy, red, and black patent leather.
WIDE TAPERED BROWBAND WITH TURNED EDGE
$99.00
Show Cavesons
Advantage Comfort Training (ACT) Collection
Designed with the comfort of the horse in mind, and tested and trusted by horsemen and women from the American Saddlebred, Morgan, and Arabian and Half-Arabian horse industries. Soft, durable, safe, and comfortable for horse and trainer.
Long Lining & Work Harness
Handmade from the finest Wickett & Craig English bridle leather. A complimentary custom engraved nameplate available with all 1” and ¾” stable halters.
Show Halters & Leads
Accentuating the beauty and movement of the in-hand show horse.
¾” & 1” widths & 8’ & 10’ lengths.
Rider Apparel
Ride. Work. Live.
Tous les Jours Performance Jods
Headlining the Freedman’s Apparel Collection is the Tous les Jours Performance Jod. First introduced in 2020 in black, these jods, with their compression fabric and contouring look, have quickly become the industry’s favorite. These work jods are for everyday comfort and performance. Ride. Work. Live.
STANDARD COLORS INCLUDE BLACK, NAVY, FOSSIL, MERLOT, AND OBSIDIAN $129.00
Limited Edition Colors & Designs
Available for a limited time, our specialty colors and designs are gorgeous and trendy.
STARTING AT $149.00
TOUS LES JOURS PERFORMANCE JODS
In Blue Camo
TOUS LES JOURS PERFORMANCE JODS
In Black Tonal Cheetah
TLJ COUTURE JODS With leatherette pocket inserts and silver thread embroidered logo on belt loop
Available in Black, Sky Blue & Rose. $70.00
TESS LADIES’ 1/4 ZIP LONG SLEEVE
Available in Regalia Purple, Flint Grey, & Sangria Red. $79.00
LADIES’ 1/4 ZIP POLO
Available in Black, Magnolia, & Chantilly. $59.00
TESS LADIES' 1/4 ZIP SHORT SLEEVE
to Beat the Heat
Midnight Black, Graphite Grey, Magenta Pink, Red Brow Band, Arctic Blue, & Azure Blue.
MEN’S DEER SOFT WORK GLOVES $49.00
Outerwear
A collection of jackets, vests, and comfort clothing designed for the equestrian.
Available in Flint Grey, Regalia Purple, & Podium Blue. $95.00
ESSENTIAL QUILTED VEST
Available in Military & Graphite. $79.00
LADIES' TEAM
LADIES’ SOFT SHELL QUILTED JACKET $165.00
LADIES’ ARUM JACKET
LADIES'
FREEDMAN’S UNISEX SWEATSHIRT
Available in Olive Green, Jet Black, & Brick Red. $59.00
Available in Ash Grey, Dusty Rose, & Black. $75.00
MEN’S LOGO HOODIE
$79.00
LADIES' LOGO HOODIE
LADIES’ JOGGERS $69.00
Footwear by Freedman’s
Boots, socks, spurs, and spur straps designed for the practice and show rings.
$350.00
ADELAIDE LADIES' SPUR STRAPS
Available in Black Patent & Plain Black leather. $25.00
ADELAIDE SHOW JODHPUR BOOT IN BLACK PATENT
BOOT
PISGAH JODHPUR BOOT $159.00
TOUS LES JOURS SOCKS
Available in Navy with Pink, Pink with Navy, Black with Grey, Grey with Black, Red with Black, Green with White, & Ice Blue with White.
$15.00
ROLLER BALL SPURS $25.00
FREEDMAN’S
SIGNATURE BALL CAP
$16.95
TEAM FREEDMAN’S BACKPACK
$75.00
TEAM FREEDMAN’S DUFFEL BAG
$45.00
TEAM FREEDMAN’S JODHPUR BOOT BAG
$40.00
TEAM FREEDMAN’S GROOMING BAG
$50.00
From the show ring to the practice ring.
YORKVILLE SHOW GLOVE
White. $139.00
LADIES’ WINTER GLOVES $39.00
Luxury Lifestyle
Quality in Every Detail
Taking Care of Freedman’s Leather
Whether you are preparing for show season, winterizing your tack, or cleaning a handbag or other small leather product from Freedman’s, there are several key elements to keep in mind when cleaning and conditioning your Freedman’s leather.
DIAGNOSING THE CULPRIT: SALT
One hard-to-control constant that affects the condition of all tack is salt exposure from horse sweat. If leather is not maintained, horse sweat can burn and stiffen it like a board, almost to the point that it cracks and feels brittle. To some degree, salt in sweat can even absorb the natural tallows (oils) that were tanned into the leather, making the leather feel as if it needs to be conditioned or treated. It is important that salts are neutralized so that the lifespan of the leather can be realized.
OILS VS. CONDITIONERS
Neutralizing salts requires balancing the pH levels in the leather. Commonly, fatty acids used in the ingredients of saddle soaps can do this. Then, conditioners must be applied to feed the leather hide and keep it supple. It should be noted that leather items that are of high quality like Freedman’s may be stitched with Irish linen thread. We do not recommend oils for these high-quality items, as many oils can strip the natural wax coating from the thread, creating thread rot. The actual loosening of the yarn’s fibers creates a weak or loose stitch in the leather.
At Freedman’s, we recommend our Luxury Saddle & Leather Conditioner for conditioning our horse furnishings and bag collection. The benefits of our Luxury Saddle & Leather Conditioner include preserving, softening, and protecting the leather while helping it to repel water. This conditioner will not permanently darken the leather or come off on your clothing. When applied properly, it protects the stitching in tack and bags and helps with longevity.
Luxury Saddle & Leather Conditioner Directions for Use:
- Apply with a soft cloth or sponge.
- Work in a circular motion.
- Allow conditioner to penetrate leather.
- Polish with a soft cloth.
- Repeat application as required.
DORMEUSE BAG
Available in Black, Cobalt, & Red.
$695.00
BROUGHAM BACKPACK
Available in Black with Black Patent, Burgundy with Burgundy Patent, & Red with Red Patent. $350.00
NEWCASTLE BELT BAG
Available in Cognac, Black, & Red. $395.00
Available in Black, Red, & Burgundy. $375.00
Available in Black, Cognac, Bordeaux, & Dark Brown. $495.00
VICTORIA TOTE
BRETT BAG
Equestrian-inspired. Handcrafted. Pebble & Italian leather handbags exclusively designed & created by Freedman’s.
BUCKINGHAM BAG
Available in Black & Cognac. $495.00
TROOPER SHOULDER BAG
Available in Red & Cognac.
$475.00
BATTLESDEN TOTE BAG
Available in Black & Grey. $795.00
CATALONIAN BAG
Available in Black. $650.00
BURGHLEY SHOULDER BAG
AVAILABLE IN COGNAC, BLACK, & GREY.
$750.00
CABRIOLET BAG
Available in Black & Red. $750.00
CALLIOPE BAG
Available in Black, Cognac, Cobalt, & Papaya. $685.00
BAROUCHET BAG
Available in Bordeaux & Dark Brown. $695.00
DERBY SHOULDER BAG
Available in Cobalt & Cognac. $350.00
SOCIABLE BAG
Available in Black & Red. $650.00
CARRETTE BAG
AVAILABLE IN RED, BLACK, & PAPAYA.
$485.00
WAGONETTE
BRIEFCASE
Available in Brown, Black, & Black with Black Patent.
$795.00
For the professional horseman and woman.
BROUGHAM BACKPACK
Available in Black with Black Patent, Burgundy with Burgundy Patent, & Red with Red Patent.
$350.00
CLASSIC BRIEFCASE
Available in Havana Brown, Cognac, & Black. $990.00
THE JAUNTY BACKPACK
Available in Brown, Black, Black with Black Patent, & Camo. $795.00
VICEROY LADIES' ESSENTIAL POUCH
$49.00
THE HANSOM SHAVE BAG $89.00
From horse shows to luxurious vacations, we go with you…
LARGE VICTORIA TOTE
Available in Brown, Black, & Camo. $575.00
THE GRAND BREAK
Available in Black with Patent & Chrome, Brown with Brass, Black with Chrome, & Camo.
$795.00
THE GRAND BREAK
Available in Black with Patent & Chrome, Brown with Brass, Black with Chrome, & Camo. $795.00
So many styles, we had to share them all...
Available in Brown, Camo, Black with Patent, Green, & Croco Black Leather. $695.00
For Pets
A collection for dog lovers.
SATIN RED & BLACK WEAVED
SATIN NAVY & GREY WEAVED
Collars
Details in the craftsmanship.
RED RAISED DOG COLLAR $75.00 $75.00
RED RAISED DOG COLLAR $75.00
HAVANA BROWN LACED DOG COLLAR $75.00
BLACK RAISED DOG COLLAR $75.00
HAVANA BROWN PADDED & RAISED DOG COLLAR $75.00
HAVANA BROWN ROUND DOG COLLAR $75.00
Beautiful by design.
FLAT DOG LEASH
Available in two lengths & widths. $49.00
HAVANA ROUNDED
HAVANA FLAT
HAVANA LACED
CREDIT CARD HOLDER
Available in Black, Olive, Purple, Red, Ice Blue, & Orange. $55.00
Small Leather Accessories
ZIP TOP CREDIT CARD HOLDER
Available in Black, Olive, Purple, Red, Ice Blue, & Orange. $65.00
BILLFOLD
Available in Black, Brown, & Bordeaux. $89.00 LADIES' WALLET
Available in Black & Brown. $199.00
Available in Brown, Burgundy, & Black. $42.50
BRIDLE LEATHER LINED COASTERS & HOLDER
Set of 6. Available in Havana Brown, Black, & Red. $99.00
Key Ring
Never go out of style.
BRIDLE CHEEK KEY RING
$15.00
WORLD CUP HP KEY RING
$30.00
FREEDMAN’S SADDLE KEY RING
$30.00
VICTORY PASS HP KEY RING
$30.00
Freedman’s
FREEDMAN’S SIGNATURE LOGO BELT
Available in Black or Brown with a Chrome or Brass buckle or Pink with a Chrome buckle. $149.00
Specialty items for every facility.
Left: In Brown, with Chrome or Brass accents.
Below: In Black, with Chrome or Brass accents.
Freedman’s Saddle System
Working in Concert for the Comfort of the Horse
Horses, as we all know, exhibit a remarkable sensitivity to their surroundings, especially when it comes to the equipment they wear and the position of their rider. The comfort of a performance horse is intricately linked to the quality and fit of its tack, emphasizing the importance of welldesigned and properly fitted equipment for horse and rider.
A saddle, crafted to correctly fit the horse’s shape and performance expectation, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the horse’s comfort while working. Equally crucial is the rider’s posture and position. However, saddles alone are not the only piece of equipment that must be examined. A saddle pad strategy without added bulk is most beneficial, while the girth needs to make breathing efficient for the horse. When these crucial elements align, the horse can then perform at its best.
At Freedman’s, we have created a collection of products that are designed as a total system, working in concert for the ultimate comfort and, therefore, performance of the horse. Let’s talk about the Freedman’s Saddle System. It’s actually quite simple…
PART 1: SADDLE FIT IS CRUCIAL
Our philosophy at Freedman’s is that the saddle should be fitted to the rider – not all saddles are created equal and not all riders fit into one size. A well-fitted rider will ride in a position that is most comfortable for the horse. From our sticky Super Grip leather, to our five-position adjustable bar system in our cutback models, our saddles are designed to encourage an athletic position that allows riders to ride at their best, without sacrificing the comfort of the horse. A comfortable, well-placed rider can make all the difference in preventing a horse from
becoming back sore or uncomfortable while under saddle. We call this the “riderready” position.
How does this position contribute to the overall saddle system? The rider is riding centered and balanced. Therefore, the saddle is sitting centered and balanced on the back of the horse. A balanced saddle means a horse’s shoulder and back muscles are free to move as needed for their specific discipline. A balanced saddle also helps eliminate tension through the horse’s back as they compensate for pressure points and movement. A balanced saddle means better overall performance.
PART 2: POISED FOR PERFORMANCE – THE STABIL-FLEX GIRTH
The second piece of Freedman’s Saddle System is our Stabil-Flex Girth. A product of five years of testing and research, this girth allows the horse to expand their ribs from the sternum as they breathe. The girth flexes on an independent elastic system that is positioned over the center of the sternum, not on one end or the other.
Why is this important?
Horses are obligatory nasal breathers, meaning they cannot choose to switch to breathing through their mouths during exercise to increase their oxygen consumption. A horse’s only way to breathe is through their nasal passages. As they inhale at the height of exertion, some horses’ lungs can expand all the way to the 16th rib. This means that their ribs, connected to their sternum bone, must be able to expand accordingly to allow for maximum air and oxygen intake.
Essential to the correct function and comfort of the Stabil-Flex Girth is a non-slip assembly. When the chosen saddle pad and
saddle fit the horse correctly, they will stay in place on the horse’s back and eliminate the need to overtighten the girth. This stability is the key to the Stabil-Flex Girth’s comfort.
PART 3: THE CORRECT PAD MAKES A NECESSARY BASE
If you opt to utilize a pad on your saddle seat or hunter horse, we have designed, in partnership with Acavallo, the Freedman Cut Back Acavallo Memory Foam Gel/ Silicone Pad (also available in an Eco-Fleece bottom option) for saddle seat and the Freedman Acavallo Hunter Gel/Silicone Memory Foam Pad for the hunt horse. Both pads have one goal in common: keep the saddle from slipping around on the horse’s back while providing ultimate comfort.
A sliding or twisting saddle can shift the rider out of proper position, resulting in a back-sore horse due to poor weight distribution from the displaced saddle. The Freedman Acavallo Pads utilize silicone on
both the top and the bottom to ensure grip. The pad grips to the horse’s back and the saddle grips to the pad – in the simplest terms, these pads minimize slippage. In addition, the pads are constructed with memory foam that yields to the horse’s shape and compresses comfortably, eliminating the need for a bulky multi-pad strategy for sensitive or atypical equine backs. Lastly, these pads are exclusively designed to fit under Freedman’s saddles as a part of our total system.
IN CONCLUSION
Thus the Freedman’s Saddle System is brought full circle: from a well-fitting and balanced saddle, to a girth that allows for proper lung expansion, all on the foundation of a non-slip pad. Simple in concept, often difficult to achieve. At Freedman’s we’ve created these products specifically to work together; high performance is achievable with the Freedman’s Saddle System.
ISAAC FREEDMAN emigrates from Poland to Canada.
NATIONAL AUSTERITY MEASURES from WWII build demand for harness in the Freedman workshop.
NIGHTTIME HARNESS RACING takes off in Ontario; Freedman’s produces over 1,000 sets of harness that year.
FAMED HACKNEY HORSE TRAINER CYNTHIA HAYDEN takes Sam Freedman’s work to England, turning the client base global.
FREEDMAN’S is commissioned by the Carlsberg Brewery in Copenhagen to build harness for the championship team and wagon.
DAVID FREEDMAN joins the business; his apprenticeship under his father would last just over 9 years.
Timeline of Tradition
SAM FREEDMAN’S PASSING makes David the 6th generation harness maker. A SPECIAL PAIR OF HARNESS is designed, handmade, and awarded to the World Pairs Championship gold medal winner from Austria.
FREEDMAN’S begins building the Budweiser Clydesdales' harness.
DAVID FREEDMAN is presented with the Worshipful Company of Coach Harness Makers London Carriage Driving Award.
2023 - PRESENT
FREEDMAN HARNESS opens U.S. operations, a boutique store in Midway, Kentucky.
DAVID FREEDMAN is clothed in the Royal Livery Company’s colors and made a Freeman of the City of London.
FREEDMAN’S purchases its first flagship store in the U.S. in downtown Midway, Kentucky. The new Boutique provided more retail space, an addition for shipping and receiving, and improved service to clients.
The essence of Freedman’s will remain the same, regardless of time. The company holds steadfast to the idea that tradition is built into every stitch, and quality stands the test of time. However, over the next several years and beyond, Freedman’s will continue to grow and develop their Equestrian Luxury side of the brand. This growth will include more saddlery, leather goods, handbags, belts, equestrian apparel, and so much more.
DAVID FREEDMAN delivers four brown horse collars to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in memoriam of His Royal Highness Prince Philip’s contribution to carriage driving.
ACTraining Equipment
Making the Job of Horse Trainers a Little Simpler
Who says your everyday training equipment shouldn’t be of the same quality as your show tack? Not us! Freedman’s Advantage Comfort Training, or ACTraining, Equipment Collection was born out of a necessity in the saddle horse industry for high-quality, reliable work tack that was sized properly for the American Saddlebred, Morgan, and Arabian/Half-Arabian horse. This equipment needed to make the transition from working to showing feel seamless, while maintaining its integrity and function through everyday use. Of course, high-quality materials were a must.
We recognized these needs and developed the ACTraining Equipment line of horse furnishings. The collection, for everyday use, includes several work bridles, reins and draw reins, a quick hitch jog harness, martingales, cavesons, a long-lining system and surcingle, bits, and so much more. The development and expansion of the collection did not come to fruition without input from professionals within the industry, including Smith Lilly, Nelson Green, John Ryan, Tim Shea, Melissa Moore, Evan Orr, Jessica Clinton, Tim Roesink, and so many more. Theirs and others’ contributions allowed the ACTraining Equipment Collection to quickly become a barn staple, renowned for its exceptional durability, superior fit, and meticulous construction.
Proper fit of equipment is crucial to the comfort and performance of any horse. The ACTraining Equipment Collection was specifically constructed to provide optimal fit for the trotting horse breeds. This attention to proper sizing helps to prevent injuries and eliminate discomfort due to rubbing or chafing. A comfortable working horse ensures that the trainer can focus on the job at hand, training, and not worry about whether the equipment is going to interfere in any way.
Besides overall fit and comfort, one of the most critical
aspects of any horse training equipment is its durability. These pieces are used every day, under all sorts of environmental conditions. ACTraining Equipment is crafted with longevity in mind, utilizing extremely high quality leather and hand-constructed to withstand the rigors of daily use and sweat. The leather is specially selected for its strength, resilience, and longevity. Over time, rather than wearing out, the leather softens and conforms, making it more comfortable for the horse without compromising its structural integrity. Additionally, the stainless-steel hardware on the equipment offer strength and resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring that the equipment remains functional and safe.
Ease of maintenance is a hallmark of the collection
as well. Keeping training equipment clean and wellmaintained is extremely important, not only for aesthetic reasons but also to ensure safety and the comfort of the horse. Trainers and grooms need equipment that is easy to clean and keep conditioned. The leather used in this collection is designed to meet those needs and mirrors the quality of our horse show furnishings.
Our ACTraining Equipment Collection is designed for everyday use, whether at home or at a horse show. Hand-crafted and built to last, these products contribute to the comfort and safety of the horses while providing trainers with reliable, high-performing tools that last. We stand behind our promise of Tradition In Every Stitch for every piece of leather we produce: for the work ring or the show ring.
Trainer Incentive & My Tack Room Program
Quick Facts About the Program:
BECOMING A PART OF
If you are a horse trainer, riding instructor, barn manager, or professional in our industry, we invite you to join the #TeamFreedmans Trainer Incentive & My Tack Room Program.
Earn credits while your customers shop in three ways:
1. With Your Custom Code
2. With Your Custom Link
3. Through Your Custom "My Tack Room" Freedman’s Mini-Store SIGN UP OR LOGIN TO COMPLETE YOUR ACCOUNT SETUP HERE:
*Please note, if you are a trainer or professional and have been a client of Freedman’s under the old trainer referral manual system, we will discontinue the back-dating of client orders for trainer referral credits on December 1, 2025.
WHO
CAN PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROGRAM?
Only professional horse trainers, instructors, or lesson program managers may enroll in the #TeamFreedman’s Trainer Incentive Program. Amateurs and individuals who do not have a client base may not enroll.
WHO DO I PROMOTE MY TRAINER INCENTIVE REFERRALS TO?
This program is designed for your clients to make purchases that give you trainer incentive credits using the referral options mentioned previously (link, code, or link to your ‘My Tack Room’ store). You should promote your referral options to your clients and host on your website and social media sites.
WHAT PRODUCTS DO I EARN TRAINER INCENTIVE CREDITS ON?
You can receive trainer incentive credits on any horse furnishings in the Freedman’s online or Midway Boutique store. Apparel, handbags, travel bags, belts, gloves, small leather goods such as wallets and key chains, cleaners and conditioners, custom plates, and gift cards are all EXCLUDED from this program. In addition, anything under our "Rider Apparel" and "Luxury Lifestyle" Collections on the website is also EXCLUDED.
HOW MUCH DO I EARN FROM EACH PRODUCT PURCHASED WITH MY REFERRAL?
You will earn 5% of each total purchase on HORSE FURNISHINGS ONLY when your client uses one of the three referral options.
HOW DO I EARN TRAINER INCENTIVE CREDITS?
Check out our list on the left-hand side of this page or visit our online Resource Hub for the full FAQ to see how to use each of these options. You WILL NOT earn credits on your own purchases, only those purchases made by your clients.
DO MY CLIENTS EARN ANY DISCOUNTS THROUGH THIS PROGRAM?
No, this program is designed only for you, as a professional, to earn incentive credits.
Thank you to the team of photographers, models (both horse and human), stylists, and designers that made the collection of images seen within the pages of this catalog possible.
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Kristen Ellis Photography
SCB Photography
Howard Schatzberg Photography
Paul Atkinson Photography
At Freedman’s, we believe that these products don’t just contribute to the elevation of the sport but create a lifestyle that is centered around the one thing that we all love… horses.
Matthew Donohue
Midway, KY & Toronto, Ontario Canada Boutique/USA: 859.846.9674 | HQ/Toronto: 1.877.256.7674
CATALOG DESIGN BY: The Grey Creative
