What Happens If a Saddle Doesn't Fit During a Trial? A Step-by-Step Guide

One of the most common concerns riders have when buying a saddle online is:

"What happens if the saddle doesn't fit?"

The simple answer is:

That's exactly what the trial period is for.

At The Saddle Bank, every saddle listed on our website comes with a 5 Day UK Trial, giving you the opportunity to assess the saddle on your horse before making a final decision.

The reality is that no reputable saddle specialist can guarantee fit from photographs alone.

Every horse is different, and even horses of similar breeds, heights and builds can require completely different saddles.

That's why thousands of riders use our trial service every year.

If a saddle doesn't fit, it doesn't mean you've made a mistake.

It simply means you've ruled out one option and can move on to finding a more suitable alternative.

In this guide, we'll explain exactly what happens if a saddle doesn't fit during a trial and what your next steps should be.

First Things First: It's Completely Normal

Many riders worry when a trial saddle isn't suitable.

In reality, this is incredibly common.

Saddle fitting is not an exact science.

A saddle may appear correct based on:

• Measurements
• Photographs
• Previous saddle recommendations
• Breed characteristics
• Horse build

Yet still not be the ideal choice once it's actually on the horse.

This is precisely why trial periods exist.

The goal isn't to guarantee the first saddle will fit.

The goal is to give you the opportunity to assess suitability before making a final commitment.

How to Know If a Saddle Doesn't Fit

A qualified saddle fitter is always the best person to assess saddle fit.

However, common signs that a saddle may not be suitable include:

• Uneven balance
• Excessive movement
• Bridging
• Rocking
• Pressure points
• Insufficient clearance
• Difficulty maintaining rider position
• Signs of discomfort from the horse

If you're unsure, we strongly recommend consulting your saddle fitter during the trial period. Many customers arrange a fitting appointment specifically to assess a trial saddle before making a final decision.

You can also reach out to The Saddle Bank team with photographs and videos of the saddle on your horse. Whilst it's impossible to provide a definitive saddle fitting assessment remotely, our experienced saddle specialists can often offer useful guidance and identify obvious issues.

For example, we may be able to advise that:

• The saddle appears too narrow
• The saddle looks too wide
• The balance appears incorrect
• Additional clearance may be required
• An alternative tree shape may be more suitable
• The panel configuration may not suit your horse's back shape
• A different saddle model may be worth considering

Whilst remote assessments can never replace an in-person saddle fitting appointment, we're always happy to offer advice and support throughout your trial to help you make the most informed decision possible.

What Should I Do If the Saddle Doesn't Fit?

The first step is not to panic.

A saddle trial is designed to help you make an informed decision.

If the saddle isn't suitable:

Step 1: Confirm the Issue

Where possible, seek professional guidance from your saddle fitter.

Understanding exactly why the saddle isn't suitable can be extremely helpful when searching for an alternative.

For example:

• Tree width may be incorrect
• Tree shape may not suit the horse
• Panel configuration may not suit the horse's back shape
• Seat size may not suit the rider
• The balance may not be ideal

The more information you have, the easier it becomes to find a better match.

Step 2: Contact The Saddle Bank Team

If you've determined the saddle isn't suitable, simply let our team know.

We're happy to discuss the feedback you've received and help identify alternative options.

Because we stock over 1,700 saddles from more than 50 leading brands, there's often a suitable alternative available.

Step 3: Return the Saddle

If you decide not to keep the saddle, return it within the trial period in accordance with our trial terms and conditions.

The saddle should be returned in the same condition in which it was received.

Once returned, it will be inspected by our team.

Step 4: Receive Your Refund

Once the saddle has been received and inspected, your refund will be processed.

The refund amount will be the saddle purchase price less:

• The return courier fee
• The £10 trial fee

Refunds are typically returned to your original payment method within up to 5 working days, although this can vary slightly depending on your bank or card provider.

Can I Try Another Saddle?

Absolutely.

In fact, many customers find their ideal saddle after trying more than one option.

Every horse is unique.

The information gained from an unsuccessful trial often helps narrow down the search and identify a better alternative.

Our team can often suggest suitable options based on:

• Saddle fitter feedback
• Horse conformation
• Previous saddle history
• Rider requirements

In many cases, a returned saddle is simply one step closer to finding the perfect fit.

Why We Offer a Trial in the First Place

Some retailers sell saddles with no trial period at all.

Once you've purchased the saddle, the responsibility is entirely yours.

We don't believe that's the best approach.

A saddle is one of the most important purchases a rider can make.

That's why every saddle listed on The Saddle Bank website comes with a 5 Day UK Trial.

We want customers to have the opportunity to:

✓ Assess fit properly

✓ Consult a saddle fitter

✓ Receive support from our experienced team

✓ Make an informed decision

✓ Buy with confidence

Without a trial, you're relying on guesswork.

With a trial, you're relying on real-world assessment.

Why Riders Trust The Saddle Bank

We've built our reputation on helping riders buy saddles safely and confidently.

Why customers choose us:

✓ Over 4,000 saddles bought and sold every year

✓ Over 1,700 saddles in stock

✓ Over 50 leading saddle brands

✓ Over 2,500 reviews averaging 4.9 stars

✓ 5 Day UK Trial on every saddle listed on our website

✓ 6 Month Tree Warranty on eligible second hand saddles

✓ Professional saddle inspections before sale

✓ Detailed photography and accurate measurements

✓ Finance options available

✓ Part exchange available

✓ Worldwide shipping

✓ Expert support from experienced saddle specialists

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it common for a trial saddle not to fit?

Yes. Every horse is different, which is exactly why saddle trials are so valuable.

Can I return a saddle if my saddle fitter advises against it?

Yes. If the saddle isn't suitable, you can return it within the trial period in accordance with our trial terms and conditions.

Will I get a refund if I return the saddle?

Yes. Once the saddle has been received and inspected, your refund will be processed. The refund amount will be the saddle purchase price less the return courier fee and £10 trial fee.

How long do refunds take?

Refunds are typically returned to your original payment method within up to 5 working days.

Can you help me find another saddle?

Absolutely. Our team can often recommend alternative saddles based on feedback from your trial, photographs and videos, and any saddle fitter recommendations.

Final Thoughts

If a saddle doesn't fit during a trial, don't worry.

That's exactly why the trial exists.

Rather than being stuck with an unsuitable saddle, you have the opportunity to assess fit properly, involve your saddle fitter, seek advice from our experienced team and make a confident decision based on what's best for your horse.

At The Saddle Bank, every saddle listed on our website comes with a 5 Day UK Trial, giving riders the reassurance they need when buying online.

Whether the first saddle fits perfectly or helps guide you towards a better option, the trial process is designed to help you find the right saddle with confidence.

Browse our current stock today and discover why thousands of riders trust The Saddle Bank when buying a saddle online.