Proper saddle fit is essential for both horse and rider. The saddle is the interface between the two and poor fit can cause communication breakdowns, soft tissue injury, change of disposition in the horse, and discomfort for horse and rider. Unfortunately saddle fitting is not an exact science and the horse is always changing shape. Therefore a saddle is not likely to work for the horse throughout his lifetime. It is important to check saddle fit regularly to ensure that it still fits.
I work with English and Western saddles. I am not associated with a saddle company nor do I have an inventory of saddles so I will not push you to buy any specific type of saddle. However, that means that it is the owner's responsibility to provide a few saddles that she owns or has out on trial that may work for the horse.
A full saddle fitting session lasts about two hours per horse. I first look at the saddles provided for any structural issues and imbalances. I then do a full evaluation of the horse's structure and muscling to identify issues that may have an impact on saddle fit. Next I look at the saddles on the horse to determine if the basic fit is correct. I will then ask the rider to ride in the saddle that seems most likely to work. It is essential to see the horse move in the saddle doing his job because this can have an impact the way the saddle fits. It is also important that the primary rider do this evaluation because the saddle needs to fit her as well. The saddle needs to be comfortable for the rider and put her in a balanced position. If a solution is not found with the saddles on hand I will provide suggestions for saddle shopping and another appointment can be made to look at the new options.
Saddle Fitting Price List:
