Saddle Assessment & Fitting

The Importance of Saddle Fitting

My interest with saddle fit began after working with horses presented to me that were obviously saddle sore, but not knowing how to advise owners to go about assessing their saddles and checking for fit. A poor saddle fit can often be the underlying cause of problems for the horse which include both behavioural and performance concerns, back discomfort and pain, and unsoundness. Saddle fit, be it good or poor, has a direct effect and cause motion on the muscles of your horse. Some consider fitting saddles for horses is similar to fitting shoes for us; it needs to be done correctly to allow for freedom of movement without pinching or causing pain. If you have a pair of shoes that are too tight, changing your socks is rarely going to make a significant difference – you need to address the cause of the pain and is the shoe. If you notice any behavioural changes or pain whilst under saddle then a professional assessment of your saddle and its fit could make all the difference.

The Saddle Fit Process

The saddle fit process can be easy or quite in-depth, and some of the things that we will consider as a part of your saddle assessment and fitting session include:

Saddle – static.

What does your saddle tell you about your own posture and seat? Is there damage to the saddle? Does it need repairs, and is it fit for the job?

Horse – static, postural & movement.

Horses posture and movement, along with muscular development and hoof care can dictate how well a saddle will fit. Is there a need for bodywork, or a trimmer/farrier?

Saddle Up – static.

How well does the saddle really fit? Is there movement; is it too big, too long, too short, and bridging? What is your horse’s body language when the saddle is presented ? For example – the ideal weight bearing area of the horses back should be considered only to the 18th thoracic vertebra, or the last rib. Beyond this area is the lumbar vertebra region which is the weaker area of the back and not desirable with weight bearing for saddle and rider.

Saddle up – static with rider.

What changes occur with a rider in place? Does the saddle complement the rider’s posture?

Saddle & Rider up – under motion.

Does the saddle allow the horse to move freely or inhibit motion? What about the rider, does the saddle work for them?

Demo’s and Lectures

We are available and have commenced presenting lectures, saddle fitting informationals and days around the region. Weekend seminars are in the process of being scheduled now for Mackay and Townsville for 2015. If interested in a short presentation, one day or 2 day clinic please contact us with your request and we’ll be in contact with you to discuss our availability.