86 SIDELINES JUNE 2014
FORHORSEPEOPLE • ABOUTHORSEPEOPLE
ByDani Moritz
I
n French, L’Apogée means “the pinnacle of crowning
achievement.” The phrase also happens to be the name of
aFrench saddlery brand launched in 2003 by husband-and-
wifeduoBobSmithandKittyGarrityofSmith-Garrity, Ltd. Imports.
Thebrand issoldalongsideotherpremiumproductsandbrands
including L’Apogée Lambskin Pads of Austria, the Royal Rider
Stirrups of Italy and Lorenzini Titanium Bits, Stirrups and Horse
Boots of Italy.
The company was created in the mid-90s and today, Bob
and Kitty boast more than 40 years of combined experience
in the equestrian consulting industry. Kitty also brings a rider’s
perspective to the table.
“Growing up in Boston, I’m a lifelong dressage rider and had
the opportunity to work with several Olympic trainers,” she said.
“With a bachelor of science in pre-vet/equine sciences from
the University of Massachusetts, I always knew I wanted to be
involvedwithhorses professionally.”
Whileshedidn’t becomeavet, shehascertainlymadehermark
in the industry— supplying riders with the equipment they need
to excel.
“From the Olympic-level rider to the enthusiastic novice,
choosing the best equipment for the horse starts with themouth
and back,” she explained. “The saddle and bit are the two most
important pieces of equipment for proper connection with your
horse. This should never be compromised.”
Kitty and Bob share a special love for French-made saddlery
products — with nearly 20 years of experience selling French-
made saddles. “A true
French
saddle
will
be stamped ‘Made in
France,’ otherwise it’s
only a French-style
saddlemadeelsewhere,”
she said. “Lightweight
and balanced, French
saddlery
products
are known for their
craftsmanship and for
using only the finest leathers and materials. The French theory
and ultimate goal is to achieve a perfect fit for both horse and
rider.”
She added, “Most French saddlers will use foam rather than
wool panels. Foammolds to the horse’s back, is maintenance-
free and can be adjusted as needed. The Frenchwould say, ‘Do
you sleepon awool mattress?’”
Another premium brand Bob and Kitty sell are Lorenzini Bits,
which are Italian-made bits that combine pure titanium with
European craftsmanship. The bits’ brand, Lorenzini Equestrian
Products, won the2012TitaniumProduct Development Awardby
the Global International Titanium Association for their innovation
inEquestrianBits.
In the end, Bob and Kitty are all about providing the best
possible products to North American riders. “Whilemost saddles
aredesignedbyEuropeanmenwhomaynot even ride, L’Apogée
is designed by anAmericanwoman and custommade to order in
France,” Kitty said.
e
Entrepreneur
Kitty aboard her horse
Katrina in L’Apogée
model LXI, L’Apogée
bridle andRoyal Rider
Stirrups
L’Apogée:
ThePinnacle
ofCrowning
Achievement
Kitty showcases her L’Apogée saddles.
Photos courtesy of Smith-Garrity, Ltd. Imports
TheNewL’ApogéeModel DS
