Why Correct Saddle Fit Matters for Both Horse & Rider
- Gillian Higgins
- Sep 29
- 5 min read
As soon as we sit on the horse's back we compromise his posture and ability to move, affect his balance and increase the strain on his joints, tendons and ligaments. Recognising this and how it happens is important before we can study how the horse supports his posture and musculoskeletal system. From there we can look at ways to strengthen his body in preparation for a rider and performance, whatever the discipline.
Improving our equine partner's fitness, posture, strength and suppleness are key to preparing and future proofing the body. There are many ways we as rider's can help to reduce the burden we place on our horse's backs. Personal fitness, balance, posture and riding skill are all things we can work on to improve not only our own health but that of our horse's too.
Another crucial consideration is tack and in particular the saddle. Chapter six of the Bare Bones of the Matter studies Saddlery and Symmetry. Gillian is joined by Master Saddle Fitter, Laurence Pearman and Qualified Saddle Fitter Catherine Baker from the Society of Master Saddlers for an insightful look into saddle design and fit. They also explore the anatomical challenges of saddle fitting, how to assess fit, what to expect from a professional fitting session and the impact of asymmetry on both horse and rider.
In this article we’ll take a look at the importance of regular saddle fit checks for the health, safety, comfort and welfare of you and your horse.
Team Work
It takes a team of professionals to help keep your horse happy and feeling at his best. It doesn’t matter what you do with him, whether it’s enjoying long leisurely hacks in the countryside or galloping around a cross-country course his health and comfort must always come first.
Surrounding yourself and your horse with a good team of professionals that all work together including a qualified saddle fitter is important. Correct tack fit is a key element to your horse’s health and welfare and one that shouldn’t be overlooked. Regular saddle checks from a professional, qualified saddle fitter are vital to ensure the best possible fit not just for your horse, but for you too.
What Impacts Saddle Fit
There are many factors that can affect saddle fit such as seasonal changes, fitness level, travelling, and changes in weight and condition. These changes can quickly alter your horse’s shape, which will have an impact on the balance of your saddle.
An out of balance saddle will influence your horse’s way of going – and not in a good way. His behaviour may change, how he feels when you are training him may alter and his performance could drop. Long term, if not corrected this can lead to change in his musculature, put increased stress on his joints and potentially cause discomfort.
A balanced and correctly fitting saddle is important for you, the rider too. If your saddle is out of balance it can make maintaining the correct position difficult. You may feel that you’re tipping forwards, or your lower leg may not be as stable and secure as usual. Over time, this altered position can cause asymmetry and lead to a drop in your confidence.
Working with a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter (SMS QSF) is so strongly recommended. These highly trained professionals are there to make sure both you and your horse are comfortable and help you get the very best out of your partnership.
What to Expect at a Saddle Fitting Appointment
When you first contact your fitter, they’ll take down details about your horse – age, breed, level of fitness – and whether you’re looking to refit an existing saddle or buying a new one. If it’s the latter, they’ll also ask about your budget to help narrow down the most suitable options.
On the day of your appointment, make sure your horse is well groomed and that all your tack (including girth and saddlecloth) is clean and ready. You’ll also be expected to ride, so have your usual riding kit to hand. Throughout the process, your fitter will be happy to answer any questions – this is your chance to learn as much as possible.
The Initial Assessment
The first stage of fitting is all about fact-finding.
Your fitter will watch your horse being walked and trotted in-hand, making a note of their conformation and movement.
They’ll palpate along the back to check for any soreness or sensitivity.
Templates of your horse’s withers, spine, and back will be taken using a flexicurve.
A girth measurement will also be recorded.
All of this builds a valuable record of your horse’s shape, which can be compared at future checks to monitor any changes. This careful process ensures the saddle fits not just on the day, but as your horse develops over time.
The fitter will then put the saddle on your horse and assess how well it fits and if any alterations are needed to improve the fit. Throughout this process they will talk through their findings.
The Ridden Assessment
Once the saddle has been adjusted – for example, with flocking alterations – it’s time to tack up and ride.
Your fitter will want to see you ride in walk, trot, canter, and (if relevant) over fences. They’ll be looking at how the saddle sits with the rider’s weight, how it allows freedom of movement, and whether it distributes pressure evenly. Just as importantly, they’ll ask for your feedback: how does it feel to you, and how does your horse respond?
This step is crucial. A saddle that looks fine when static can ride very differently once the horse and rider are moving together. Only by carrying out a ridden assessment can your fitter be sure the saddle truly works for both of you.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you’ve bought a new saddle, remember that the flocking inside will settle with use. This means the fit needs to be reassessed sooner than usual – your fitter will advise on the best timescale, but as a rule, saddles should be checked at least every six months.
And if you have any concerns after the fitting? Don’t wait – contact your fitter. They’re there to support you and your horse, even after the initial appointment.
Why Choose a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter?
Not all saddle fitters are the same. By choosing a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter, you’re putting your trust in someone who has:
Completed extensive and intensive training and has gained hands-on experience before sitting their City & Guilds qualification – a benchmark respected worldwide
Committed to regular refresher courses and ongoing professional development
Agreed to follow a strict code of conduct to remain on the official Society of Master Saddlers register
To find your nearest registered Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter, visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk.
A correctly fitted saddle isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity for both horse and rider. By working with a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter, you can be confident that your investment is protecting your horse’s welfare, your own comfort, and allowing you both to perform at your best.
For a deeper dive into saddlery and the importance of correct fit, don’t miss Chapter 6 of The Bare Bones of the Matter, Saddlery and Symmetry in collaboration with the Society of Master Saddlers.