Rider and Tack

Saddle Fitting 

One of the easiest, most cost effective and preventive measures you can take to ensure your horse is healthy, ...Period.

We all can relate to what it feels like to have put on a pair of shoes or pants that are too tight. Thinking from the horse's perspective, take that pair of pants and add a 30lb leather belt plus 150lbs of extra weight to balance as well. 

Not the most comfortable situation, also a horrible mental picture...

Now, think of it in terms of your favorite pair of shoes or pants that fit well and you feel like you could go for miles in them. It's just common sense that it works the same for horses.   

If your saddle fits properly it will distribute your weight evenly over your horse's back. There would be no pressure points on the withers or the spine.

How do I tell if my saddle fits...?

An easy, inexpensive way to get a good idea of the fit of your saddle to your horse's back is the sheet test. Take an old sheet and cut a piece to fit over the bottom of your saddle pad. Tape the sheet to your pad to ensure it doesn't shift or bunch. Don't do that perfect brush job on your horse before you saddle up, take her (or him) for a nice ride and when you get home you will have a picture painted for you in dirt of your horse's world when you ride.

Then give me a call, based on what we find with your sheet test and some examination of tack, we can discover, adjust and get you back in the saddle with an appropriate fit for both you and your horse.

Check back soon for information about Rider Imbalances and Tack Imbalances