Saddle Fitting

An improperly balanced saddle puts the rider off balance. As a result, the rider sits awkwardly, resulting in poor posture leading to back pain. Incorrectly stuffed saddles also disfigure any seat or leg aids. This in turn is duplicated by the horse, which bears the ever-shifting weight of an uncomfortable rider.

Bottom line: a saddle that causes discomfort will inhibit the horse's movement and cause misbehavior such as refusal to canter or resistance to jumping. Disproportionate weight of the rider causes aches and stiffness in the animal and, in the long term, may create disability problems for the horse.

An unbiased and comfortable saddle distributes weight evenly over the weight-bearing surface of the saddle and onto the back. Saddles with gussets (most often used in dressage) inserted in the rear of the panel have a wider, flatter bearing surface and spread the load more efficiently than one without. A poorly fitting tree can cause pinching and pressure points.

Equally important is the condition of the panels. To maintain balance, they should be evenly and correctly stuffed. The bearing surfaces should be equal in size and cur either side of the gullet. This will promote a central seat providing a stable and even ride for beginners while enabling advanced riders to get the best performance from a horse.

Saddle Fitting No matter the design, a saddle should conform to three basic requirements: Comfortable for the horse Equally comfortable for the rider The shape should help the rider maintain body weight in a symmetrically balanced position aligned with the center of the horse's movement. The center of balance at the halt is not the same as in collection, for example, where the croup is lowered and the center of balance shifts slightly to the rear.
An improperly balanced saddle puts the rider off balance. As a result, the rider sits awkwardly, resulting in poor posture leading to back pain. Incorrectly stuffed saddles also disfigure any seat or leg aids. This in turn is duplicated by the horse, which bears the ever-shifting weight of an uncomfortable rider. Bottom line: a saddle that causes discomfort will inhibit the horse's movement and cause misbehavior such as refusal to canter or resistance to jumping. Disproportionate weight of the rider causes aches and stiffness in the animal and, in the long term, may create disability problems for the horse. An unbiased and comfortable saddle distributes weight evenly over the weight-bearing surface of the saddle and onto the back. Saddles with gussets (most often used in dressage) inserted in the rear of the panel have a wider, flatter bearing surface and spread the load more efficiently than one without. A poorly fitting tree can cause pinching and pressure points. Equally important is the condition of the panels. To maintain balance, they should be evenly and correctly stuffed. The bearing surfaces should be equal in size and cur either side of the gullet. This will promote a central seat providing a stable and even ride for beginners while enabling advanced riders to get the best performance from a horse.
A Balanced Saddle
A well balanced saddle should have: Even distribution of flock throughout the panel As broad a bearing surface as possible to spread the weight Levelness Fit as closely as possible but without any spinal pressure A correctly fitted saddle enables a rider to maintain position without undue physical effort to horse and rider.

Saddle Fitting

A Balanced Saddle