Posted: 23rd July 2019 | Back to news feed
Society of Master Saddlers’ Qualified Saddle Fitter, Bea Blakeman, answers some frequently asked questions on saddlery.
Question
I have a Qualified Saddle Fitter coming to fit saddles on my new horse. What preparations do I need to make?
Answer
Initial discussions should identify your saddle needs, colour preference and budget; it’s wise to be open minded on brands and recognise it’s not always possible to find a suitable saddle within a more limited budget. Make sure you advise your Qualified Saddle Fitter about your horse and its conformation, as well as your own height to help them ascertain appropriate sizes to bring.
On the day of your appointment, it is always helpful to be on time and ready with a clean horse. If possible it is preferable to have a covered area or stable for the initial horse assessment and saddle selections.
Be prepared to ride, and if you have access to a ménage this will be ideal. Your saddle fitter will expect to see the shortlisted saddles ridden for further assessment of fitting and suitability. Make sure you also have your usual girth, leathers and irons ready or ask your saddle fitter to bring these accessories if you need to buy these also.
If you are looking for guidance from your trainer, you might like to ask them to join you on the appointment to help you make the right choice.
Finally, always confirm your appointment and advise your Qualified Saddle Fitter beforehand if your horse has lost a shoe or has any lameness, it’s likely that you will need to rearrange your appointment if they can't see the horse ridden.
Question
My main sport is show jumping, should I choose a close contact saddle and why?
Answer
A well-fitting and balanced jumping saddle should give you a strong and secure lower leg position. Choosing a close contact type saddle usually enhances this further as there is less bulk between you and the horse, these saddles generally are slimmer in the panel depth and are often a mono flap design, enabling the rider to gain the best feel. I would recommend riding in one before you make a decision as ultimately it will be down to your personal preference.
Question
I have just sold my 16.2hh Irish Draught cross Thoroughbred and my new horse is very similar in build and conformation – can I use the same saddle?
Answer
The simple answer is no. Before using any saddle on a new horse I would recommend that you seek the advice of an SMS Registered & Qualified Saddle Fitter so the saddle fit can be fully assessed and evaluated. Even if the horse is similar in shape and height, if the saddle is slightly out of balance this could have a detrimental effect on your own balance and stability, as well as that of the horse and therefore its performance and comfort.
It is worth remembering that the saddle may have settled to your previous horse's shape and therefore some adjustments may be required, whether that's to panel/flocking or a change of width if an adjustable saddle. A Qualified Saddle Fitter will want to assess the saddle's balance and make sure it has clearance around the wither and spine, they will check that the tree is the correct shape, width and length and that the girthing position is in line with the horse's girth groove. They will also make sure the panels contact well along and across the horse's back. It’s well worth remembering that even if you have a changeable gullet style of saddle, that does not guarantee it will fit your next horse, as it will depend on the tree still being suitable in the first instance.
For more information visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk or contact The Society of Master Saddlers on 01449 711642.
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