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How Do You Fit a Saddle?

A reader asks: My daughter wants a new saddle for her horse this Christmas. How do I choose a good one?
Answer: The saddle needs to fit the horseʼs back and the riderʼs seat. Both are equally important. Local saddle shops or tack stores often will bring saddles out for you to try on your horse for a reasonable fitting fee. But even if you decide to go that route, here are things you should know:
Fitting the horse
Place the saddle on the horseʼs back and slide it back to about two finger-widths behind the shoulder blade. The saddleʼs tree should be wide enough so that it sits flat on the horseʼs back—no“bridging”, that is, no pressing on the withers and back but not in the middle. The pommel should be high enough so that you can fit two fingers between it and the horseʼs withers. Run your hand under the saddle to feel how well it sits on the horseʼs back and barrel.
Now put a saddle pad under the saddle, and apply the girth or cinch. Check again to see that there is adequate clearance between the pommel and withers, and that the saddle sits flat without bridging.
Longe the horse to see if the horse moves freely or if the saddle interferes with the horseʼs movement.
Fitting the rider
The seat size of an English saddle is measured in inches from either of the nail heads on the pommel to the middle of the cantle. A typical range for most riders is 16″ - 18″. In general, you should have about four inches between your pubic bone and the swell of the saddle. Your bottom should rest at the base of the cantle, but should not press against the cantle. The flaps should be long enough to not get caught on your boots. Long-legged riders will need longer flaps that shorter legged riders.

A western saddle is measured from the back of the swell at the top of the gullet back to leading edge of the cantle or cantle board. All of the same fitting points are the same as described for the English saddle.

Most women will need a deeper and wider seat than men because the female pelvis is wide and shallow whereas the male pelvis is narrow and deep. This is crucially important for all riders, but especially dressage riders because they sit so deeply in the saddle.
As long as you’re here, check these out!
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Denise Cummins (The Thinking Equestrian) has over 30 years experience in training horses, showing them, giving riding instruction, and owning/running a successful equestrian boarding and training facility. I am also a research psychologist who is an expert on human and animal learning and behavior. Dive into this site to find valuable tips on how to care for a horse, how to train a horse, how to teach students effectively, and how to manage a successful horse business.

How Do You Fit a Saddle?

A western saddle is measured from the back of the swell at the top of the gullet back to leading edge of the cantle or cantle board. All of the same fitting points are the same as described for the English saddle.

Happy riding!​Copyright Denise Cummins May 27, 2024The Thinking Equestrian

Happy riding!
Copyright Denise Cummins May 27, 2024
The Thinking Equestrian