Acavallo Ortho-Coccyx Gel Out Seat Saver: Comfort and Confidence in the Saddle

Custom Customer Review – Sheila & Herbie

If you’ve been finding yourself a bit sore after riding, especially around your lower back or tailbone, you’re not alone. Saddle discomfort is incredibly common, especially as we get older or spend more time in the saddle. One product that’s been getting a lot of positive attention lately is the Acavallo Ortho-Coccyx Gel Out Seat Saver and for good reason.

To give you a real insight into how it performs, we spoke to one of our lovely customers, Sheila, a 62-year-old rider who’s been in the saddle most of her life. She rides her cob, Herbie, several times a week and recently gave the Gel Out seat saver a go. Here's her story.

Meet Sheila and Herbie

Sheila’s been riding for over 40 years and, like many riders, has started to notice a few more aches and pains after longer rides. Her main issue was discomfort around her coccyx, especially after hacking out or sitting the trot in schooling sessions.

She told us she’d tried various padded jods and pants, but nothing gave lasting relief. Then she tried the Acavallo Ortho-Coccyx Gel Out Seat Saver and it made a world of difference.

First Impressions

“The first time I sat on it, I honestly couldn’t believe the difference,” Sheila said. “The cut-out at the back really takes the pressure off your tailbone, and the gel is so supportive without feeling bulky. I could sit deeper and more evenly, and I felt better during and after the ride.”

Unlike some seat savers that feel slippery or shift around, this one gave her immediate stability.

Extra Grip When You Need It

One of Sheila’s favourite features was the “Gel Out” surface, which is slightly sticky to the touch. It offers extra grip in the saddle, which came in especially handy with Herbie’s occasional spooks.

“Herbie’s usually a good boy, but every now and then he does one of those classic sideways cob leaps – usually when there’s a wheelie bin or pigeon involved! I felt so much more secure with the gel keeping me in place. I wasn’t slipping around, even when things got a bit lively.”

This added grip makes a real difference to confidence, particularly when hacking out alone or dealing with a sharp horse.

Easy Fit, Easy Care

Sheila uses a GP saddle and said the seat saver fitted perfectly. The straps were simple to adjust and, once on, it didn’t move or bunch up.

“My friend tried it on her jump saddle and it fitted just as well but I told her she needs to buy her own!  Cleaning has also been easy, a quick wipe with a damp cloth and it’s good to go, even after muddy rides.  I was worried the stickyness would attract everything but honestly a swoop with a damp cloth and its back to as good as new!"

Perfect for Older Riders or Anyone Needing a Bit More Support

Sheila was keen to point out that this seat saver isn’t just for those with existing back problems, it’s for anyone who wants to feel more comfortable and secure in the saddle.

“If you’re starting to feel stiff or sore after riding, or you’re just not sitting as well as you used to, I’d absolutely recommend this. It’s made riding enjoyable again, I don’t come home aching like I used to, and I can stay out longer without thinking about getting off.”

The Verdict from Sheila (and Herbie)

“This has been one of the best things I’ve bought in years. I wish I’d found it sooner, honestly. It’s helped my back, given me more confidence, and even Herbie seems happier, probably because I’m not shifting about all the time!”

Final Thoughts

The Acavallo Ortho-Coccyx Gel Out Seat Saver offers genuine comfort, support, and security for riders of all levels. Whether you’re recovering from injury, managing age-related aches, or just want a more comfortable ride, this could be the simple upgrade that makes a big difference.

If you are not keen on the gel out version, take a look at the Acavallo Ortho-Coccyx Gel In Seat Saver.  This version houses the gel in a soft outer for less stickyness.

Sheila’s story is a great reminder that small changes to your tack can transform your riding experience – and help you keep doing what you love for years to come.