How to measure your saddle
Measuring your saddle whether it is so you can sell it as accurately as possible or perhaps to replace it for another saddle for your horse can be a daunting process. It involves measuring the seat size, flap length, and determining the appropriate width for the horse. In this blog, we will guide you through the process of measuring an English saddle accurately.
If you are looking for how to template a horse to see what width they are and if they have changed width click here to read our super helpful post on how to template.
If by the end of the blog you are not still not sure the best way to measure your saddle, why not get in touch with our friendly customer support team via phone 01733 301 488 or email info@thesaddlebank.com. Our lovely team are always happy to help as much as they can and provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for you and your horse.
Seat Size Measurement
Many saddles have the seat size stamped on them, and just because a seat size in one brand might suit you and your horse that same seat size in another brand might not be suitable. Measuring a saddle with a tape measure is subjective and should not be taken as accurate. However, many people request for the saddle to be measured. It is more important to check any stamps/serial numbers on the saddle and verify the details with the manufacturer.
The seat size of an English saddle refers to the distance between the pommel and cantle of the saddle. It determines the space available for the rider to sit comfortably. However, the larger the seat size, the larger the panels will be on the horses back.
To measure the seat size, follow these steps:
- Place the saddle on a sturdy surface, such as a saddle stand or a flat area on the ground.
- Using a measuring tape, measure from the center of the cantle to the centre of the pommel in inches. This will typically be 1 inch shorter than what the suggested seat size is. To get your saddles seat size you would then need to an inch to what is shown on the tape measure if your saddle has one trim or closer to half an inch if your saddle has two trims.
Some people also measure from the centre of the cantle to the nailhead. However, this also does not give an accurate representation of the seat size as each manufacturer uses different types of trees, and the nail heads are fitted by eye at the end of the manufacturing process for branding purposes.
Overall the seat size doesn't matter in measurement terms. What matters is where the saddle sits when it is on the horse's back. The saddle should not come past T18 or the 18th thoracic vertebrae as this can cause your horse pain and discomfort. You should also take into consideration that the saddle should be of a suitable size to distribute the rider's weight evenly. If the saddle is too small for the rider, their bum will be hanging over or very close to the back of the saddle putting a lot of pressure down onto the horses back. If the saddle is too large for the rider, they will feel lost in the saddle through a lack of support causing an imbalance which will affect the horse as well as the rider.
Flap Length Measurement
The flap length of a saddle refers to the distance from the stirrup bar (where the stirrup leather attaches) to the bottom edge of the flap. It determines where your leg will sit on the flap whilst in the saddle. Follow these steps to measure flap length:
- Position the saddle on a stable surface.
- Locate the stirrup bars on each side of the saddle.
- Measure from the center of each stirrup bar straight down to the bottom edge of the flap in inches.
Flap lengths can vary depending on factors such as discipline, rider preference, and leg length. For example a dressage saddle flap length is going to be longer than a jump saddle flap as your leg will be in different positions on each.
Saddle Width Measurement
Although many saddles are width stamped it is always worth checking what width the inside gullet measurement is of your saddle. This is the distance between the panels of your saddle at the front.
- Position the saddle on a stable surface.
- Measure from the inner side of the panel from one side to the other in inches.
This will show how much room there is at the front of the saddle where it would be sitting on your horses back/shoulders.
You can also measure from point to point. However, this is trickier on certain saddles depending on the saddle design. Ideally this should be done when the panel has been dropped by a saddler.
The D-D Measurement
The D-D measurement, also known as the distance between the D-rings, is a common method used to estimate saddle width. However, it is not an accurate way to determine proper saddle fit for your horse. The D-rings are the metal rings located on each side of the saddle in front or under the saddle skirts, these are not uniformly fitted on saddles, so two saddles of the same brand, model and width may have different D to D measurements as their D-rings are not in the same place on each saddle. Here at The Saddle Bank we do list the D to D width on fixed tree saddle listings, purely because we get asked for them!
While the D-D measurement can provide a very rough estimate of saddle width, it doesn’t take into account the shape and musculature of the horse’s back. To ensure a proper fit, we would always recommend booking a saddle fitting with a professional saddle fitter who can assess your horse’s conformation and recommend the appropriate size saddle for you and your horse.
What adjustable gullet bar width does your horse need?
Many English saddles come with adjustable gullet bars systems, allowing you to change the width of your saddle to suit your horse throughout the year as they change shape. Watch the super helpful video on the link below showing how you can check what width gullet bar your horse needs using the adjustable gullet bars.
It’s important to remember that achieving proper saddle fit involves more than just measuring seat size and flap length. The shape, width, and overall conformation of your horse’s back should be taken into consideration for optimal comfort and performance.
By following these guidelines and getting a saddle fitting with professional saddle fitter, you can ensure a well-fitted English horse riding saddle for both you and your equine partner.
If you are looking to sell your saddle we would love to assist you!
Simply click here to fill in our sell a saddle form and our quotes team will get back to you within 24 hours!
Looking for a new saddle and are based in the UK? Why not take advantage of our 5 day UK trial, watch our handy video below on how the trial works for you, and then click here to see our full range of new, used and ex demo saddles. With over 1200 saddles in stock we're sure to have the one for you!
