Saddle fitting
Determining saddle fit or saddle fitting (in English saddle fitting) is an important check to ensure the horse's health and working ability. Regardless of the riding discipline, well-fitting saddles allow the horse to move freely and naturally, while helping the rider find the correct and effective riding position.
It is recommended to check the saddle fit at least once a year (twice for young horses), because as the horse's muscles, weight, age, workload, diet, or health change, the position of the saddle on the back also changes.
When is saddle fitting necessary?
A visit from the saddler may be necessary if a new horse and/or new saddle has been acquired, the horse has changed its body shape, there are suspicions of a sensitive, painful (chafed or with rashes) part of the horse's back where the saddle sits, if a young horse is being prepared for riding, etc.
How does it work?
- During the visit, the client is asked about previous experience with the horse, complaints, and future plans.
- The technical condition of the saddle is checked – whether the saddle panel padding is in working order, whether the saddle tree is intact, whether the girth straps are securely fastened, etc.
- The part of the horse's back where the saddle sits is checked and how the particular saddle fits the horse.
- In more complex cases, the rider is invited to sit in the saddle, the horse is observed on the lunge, etc.
- At the end of the visit – conclusions and recommendations.
