Why Correct Saddle Fitting Is Essential for Every Horse
Correct saddle fitting is one of the most important aspects of responsible horse ownership. A saddle is the primary piece of equipment that connects horse and rider, and when it does not fit correctly, it can affect comfort, movement, performance and long term physical wellbeing. Regardless of discipline, age or workload, every horse benefits from a saddle that fits properly.
Comfort and Horse Welfare
A correctly fitted saddle allows the horse to move comfortably without pain or restriction. It distributes the rider’s weight evenly across the horse’s back, avoids pressure points and allows freedom through the shoulders, spine and back muscles. This comfort is essential not only for physical health but also for the horse’s mental wellbeing.
A horse experiencing discomfort from poor saddle fit may show subtle signs such as reluctance to go forward, tension through the back or resistance when being tacked up. Over time, discomfort can lead to muscle soreness, uneven muscle development and behavioural changes that are often mistaken for training issues. A comfortable horse is more willing, more relaxed and better able to engage correctly in its work.
Correct saddle fitting is therefore a fundamental part of protecting horse welfare. Discomfort should never be accepted as part of riding.
Performance and Asking the Horse to Do a Job
If we expect our horses to perform a job, whether that is hacking, schooling or competing, it is our responsibility to provide equipment that allows them to do that job properly. Different disciplines place different demands on the horse’s body, and saddle fit plays a crucial role in supporting performance.
In dressage, the saddle must allow the horse to lift through the back, engage the hindquarters and move freely through the shoulders. In showjumping, freedom of movement and balance are essential for take off, bascule and landing. In eventing, the saddle must support the horse through a variety of phases while remaining stable and comfortable.
A poorly fitting saddle can restrict movement, alter balance and limit the horse’s ability to perform. Over time, this may lead to loss of performance, discomfort or even injury. Providing the correct size and shape of saddle allows the horse to move as intended and perform its role without unnecessary strain.
The Importance of Rider Balance
Saddle fit is not only about the horse. A correctly fitted saddle also supports the rider’s position and balance. When a saddle fits both horse and rider properly, it allows the rider to sit in balance without tipping forward or back, collapsing to one side or compensating through the body.
A balanced rider places less uneven pressure on the horse’s back, allowing the horse to move more freely and evenly. Poor saddle fit can force the rider out of balance, which in turn affects the horse’s way of going. This cycle can lead to tension, crookedness and reduced performance for both horse and rider.
Correct saddle fitting creates harmony between horse and rider, allowing clearer communication and more effective riding.
Why Saddle Fit Changes Over Time
Every horse has a unique shape, and that shape changes throughout its life. Age, fitness, workload, season and muscle development all influence how a saddle fits. A saddle that fits well at one stage may no longer be suitable months later.
Young horses, horses returning to work or those changing discipline often experience noticeable changes in shape. Weight fluctuation and changes in muscle tone can also affect fit. For this reason, saddle fitting should never be based on assumption or past fit alone.
Regular checks by a qualified saddle fitter are essential to ensure the saddle continues to support the horse correctly as it develops.
Working With a Qualified Saddle Fitter
Correct saddle fitting requires professional assessment. A qualified saddle fitter has the training and experience to evaluate how a saddle fits both statically and in motion, and to identify issues that may not be obvious to the untrained eye.
At The Saddle Bank, we strongly encourage riders to work with a qualified saddle fitter when selecting or assessing a saddle. We work with experienced professionals across the UK and can help you find a qualified saddle fitter near you using our fitter directory
If your current saddle is no longer suitable, you can browse saddles for sale or request personalised saddle recommendations to help narrow down options that may work for your horse before a fitting appointment
A Fundamental Part of Responsible Horse Care
Correct saddle fitting is not a luxury or an optional extra. It is a fundamental part of caring for your horse properly. A well fitted saddle supports comfort, performance and long term soundness, while poor fit can compromise welfare and enjoyment for both horse and rider.
By prioritising correct saddle fit and working with qualified professionals, riders can ensure their horses are comfortable, happy and able to perform to the best of their ability.
