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Saddle Fitting
As we all now know, saddle fit is very important, poor saddle fit can have long lasting negative impact to the horse. However, to be able to correctly saddle fit is a skill and anyone who fits saddles should be properly insured and qualified or working towards qualified status via an externally verified board such as City and Guilds or LANTRA.
Things to remember
Allow enough time!
Appointments last approx 1.5hours, however you should allow enough time either side of your appointment, particularly if there are multiple saddles.
Preparation!
You should be ready to start your appointment on arrival. This means, horses should be in and groomed.
Late starts to appointments have a knock on effect to others.
Get ready to ride!
In order to properly assess the saddle the horse needs to be seen ridden, ideally by the main rider.
Do not forget to have your hat & boots ready.
There are of course some instances where this may not be possible and this should be discussed at the time of booking.
Every saddle fitting consultation follows the same procedure...
Saddle Fitting Procedure
1
Introduction
All consultations start with introductions.
Completing paperwork and meeting your horse or pony.
2
Static Assessment
A static assessment is completed, this involves palpating the horse and checking for any lumps, bumps or sore spots.
Templates and also taken.
3
Dynamic Assessment
Once we have assessed your horse statically, your horse will be assessed in walk and trot without a rider on,
Should any issues be highlighted these will be discussed.
4
Saddle Assessment
Once the dynamic assessment is complete, we will then assess your horses saddle, first checking it off the horse and then on the horse.
5
Ridden Assessment
If the saddle is deemed suitable, you will then be asked to ride to assess the fit when ridden.