Bob's Custom Saddle - Chris Weaver Interview

Q - Bob’s Custom Saddles has stepped up BIG TIME as a Sponsor at Sun Circuit, you even now have the branding on one of the main arenas. Can you tell us a bit about that big step?

A - Over the past 3 years we have been enjoying the growth of this event. The Sun Circuit is one of the largest events for all disciplines, so as they grow year after year, we have also grown our support of this great event. Q - A new saddle called “The Fappani” has just been developed by Bob’s Custom Saddles. In fact, Andrea Fappani won the NRHA Open Level 4 Futurity Championship riding in that NEW saddle in December 2020! What went into the R & D to create that saddle?

Q - This year, 2021, likely has the largest number of horses on record at Sun Circuit - how does that make you feel since it happens right here in your own backyard?

A - It is great - we love all horse events that come to town. It helps build the equine industry with such a great event and gives us a place to showcase our products.

Q - It is said that, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” You have steered the companies energy into supporting the top events and organizations in our industry - that is huge benefit for the equestrian community. You are introducing the Bob’s brand to so many people with one event sponsorship at a time and helping to build the brand, while supporting the communities in “one step.” What was your thought process behind this plan?

A - Bob’s Custom Saddles has always supported events and riders. The purpose of different types of events is to focus on the Non Pro and Amateur rider, which gives us the opportunity to meet people new to the equestrian industry. We sponsor 18 to 20 events each year. They help to drive demand for our products. We also sponsor IEA and Youth events which helps to grow the industry. These young people are the future of our community. Without supporting the growth of Youth competitors we lose the opportunity to help to grow the industry. We have a motto at our company, “We are a little company, that does great things!”

Q - Most horseman that ride a Bob’s saddle will never ride anything else- why is brand loyalty so strong with a Bob’s saddle?

A - We have been told that the quality, feel and the Rideability of our saddles are the reasons people keep coming back. Working hard on Quality, to maintain the feel and consistent rideability is what makes the difference for our loyal customers.It is an important part of what they want and what they are looking for.

Q - A new saddle called “The Fappani” has just been developed by Bob’s Custom Saddles. In fact, Andrea Fappani won the NRHA Open Level 4 Futurity Championship riding in that NEW saddle in December 2020! What went into the R & D to create that saddle?

A - It all started with a phone call from Andrea Fappani! He had thoughts and ideas for creating a new Fappani Reining Saddle. Listening to Andrea, we designed some new trees with a different seat and feel. With Andrea riding the product and with us staying in direct contact with him during every step of the process, we were able to create the new Fappani Reining saddle.

Q - What is new and different about “The Fappani” saddle?

A - The seat and close contact skirt are the two main features changed on this new saddle that we created with Andrea.

Q - Will Bob’s be set up at Sun Circuit so we can see “The Fappani” ?

A - We have two dealers that will be set-up with stock saddles at Sun Circuit, and one dealer will also be at the Cactus Classic this year as well.

Q - Are any Bob’s saddles (including “The Fappani” ) available to buy “ready to go” or are they all custom ordered?

A - Yes! We have dealers throughout the United States and 13 other Countries that have Bob’s Custom Saddles in stock. If a dealer does not have what you want, they can place a custom order for a saddle that is created exactly to their liking and design.

Q - What is Bob’s Custom Saddles goal?

A - Our goal as Bob’s Custom Saddles is to build a saddle of quality, craftsmanship and performance. We have spent the last 46 years working on delivering what the rider needs and wants. We have worked hard to create new products, for example, a New Mounted Shooting Saddle. We have redesigned our Silver show saddles to meet the markets needs. As well as new colors, silver and skirts designs for the Reining, Cowhorse and roping market. We also work closely with all of our pro-endorsees and riders to make sure that we are building the best products of today and the future!