When Did Circle Y Begin Making Brenda Imus 4-Beat Saddles?

Brenda Imus 4-Beat saddles for gaited horses have been made by several different manufacturers. Circle Y began producing the Imus 4-Beat in 2007, but the partnership did not last. The line was produced by Big Horn Saddle Company during 2008 and CCi in 2009.

  1. Circle Y

    • The original Brenda Imus 4-beat saddles were manufactured by an Amish saddle maker, but according to Imus the demand for the saddles eventually "outstripped his ability and desire to produce," them. Imus transferred the line to Circle Y in 2007.

    Big Horn

    • In 2008, Imus moved her saddle line to Big Horn Saddle Company, claiming she had "problems with product delivery" and Circle Y was not maintaining the quality and specifications to her satisfaction. When Big Horn declared bankruptcy in late 2008, Imus switched production companies again. In early 2009 the Colorado Correctional Institution Saddle Shop began making the Imus 4-beat saddles.

    CCi

    • As of 2010, Brenda Imus saddles are manufactured by inmates in the Colorado Correctional Institution Saddle Shop. According to Imus, the switch allowed her to cut delivery times and improve overall saddle quality while offering more options. Imus said the program pays the inmates minimum wage while they learn a trade and the proceeds in turn support the program and inmates. It's one of the only self-supporting prisons in the country.