Saddle fitting

A correct and comfortable saddle fit is essential for both horse and rider. However it's often much easier said than done! We're trying to fit a largely static object as an interface between two very mobiles ones (horse and rider).

There are a number of things that need to be checked when assessing saddle fit, including (but by no means limited to!) saddle position, gullet width, saddle balance from front to back, panel width, and even contact of the panels with the horse. The horse's conformation, weight and muscling need to be taken into account. The rider is also really important - we sometimes focus much more on ensuring the horse's comfort (which is great) but forget to ensure that the saddle allows the rider to sit in a correct and effective position, which also means life is easier for the horse! Saddles themselves should be checked, for example for symmetry, flocking and integrity of the tree.

I often check saddles towards the end of a treatment session for a horse, but can also provide a full saddle-fitting assessment, which includes looking at the saddle, the horse, and the rider, and watching the horse being ridden.

Saddle reflocking and adjustments

I can reflock wool (or synthetically) flocked saddles, either doing a complete reflock (recommended if the flocking is hard, lumpy or tight, or if there are underflocked areas) or minor adjustments to improve saddle fit. I am also able to adjust Cair saddles, which can be done on-site.