Saddle Fitting

The serious consideration of proper saddle fit, though seeming to have gained more recognition in recent years, is certainly not a new or novel concept. William Cavendish, Duke of Newcastle, when writing his treatise on the care and training of dressage horses in 1656 admonished “…the first saddle you put upon him should be quilted, or one made of chaff or straw, well fastened by a surcingle, that it may not hurt his back, but leave his shoulders liberty that he may trot freely…” Chaff and straw may have given way to synthetics and other 21st century materials but the basic principles of proper saddle fit remain the same.

If your horse is experiencing problems due to an improperly fitting saddle please consider contacting me to discuss your options. Oftentimes there are solutions short of purchasing a new saddle. Trees can be altered, panels reflocked and/or refitted, riggings can be repositioned – all are potential solutions.

I also conduct saddle fit seminars and provide individual consultations, time permitting. If you or your group is interested in such services feel free to contact me for details and scheduling.

Thanks for your interest.

Measuring for the finished saddle

A proper fit.