Saddles are designed differently to suit the various disciplines. Regardless of whether it is bought new or second hand, it must always be fitted to the horse correctly. A badly fitted saddle can cause the equine tremendous pain, and create muscle wastage around their back and withers. If muscle wastage is suspected, look at the width of the horse's chest as this provides a good indicator of their natural build. Adjustable trees allow the saddle to be easily altered, accommodating the equine as they change shape throughout the year.
Numnahs or saddle cloths are available in different sizes (pony, cob and full), and should be 1 inch larger than the panels on the saddle. This prevents uneven pressure on the horse's back causing rubs or sores. When fitting, it must be pulled into the gullet to avoid restricting the spine or wither.
Stirrup leathers should be the correct length and thickness for the rider, plus the same colour as the saddle. The stirrup irons should be made from stainless steel, or other suitable materials. They be the correct size for the rider's foot (¼ of inch gap between the foot and stirrup on both sides) and if treads are fitted they must be in good condition.
The girth should be the correct length for the equine. When fastened at full tension it must attach in the middle of the girth straps, at the same height on both sides. This ensures the saddle gives equal pressure on the horse's back,
For security, it should be fastened on either the first and second, or first and third girth straps. The second and third girth straps should never be used together, as they are connected to the same piece of webbing, meaning if one strap breaks the girth would completely undo. Point straps can also be fitted, they are seen at the very front of the saddle and are used to help prevent the saddle slipping forwards or rising up at the front. If it is required the girth is fastened to that strap and one of the other three.
To protect the saddle flaps, it should be fitted with buckle guards.
When checking a saddle for fit, it should be fitted without a numnah and the girth tightened at the correct tension.
Saddles which are too small can pinch the wither, shoulder or back. Also, it will not distribute the weight evenly over the horse’s back.
A saddle that is too big will create large amounts of movement, causing rubs and sores. It may also sit too low on the horse’s back or spine.
When the rider is dismounted there should be clearance of around 4 fingers between the pommel and wither.
There should be clearance of around 3 fingers between the pommel and wither when the rider is mounted.
If there is more than these numbers, the saddle is too narrow for the horse. Likewise, if there is less the saddle is too wide.
With or without a rider sat on the saddle, you should be able to run your hand down between the side of the saddle and shoulder, without any areas of excess tightness.
Roughly there should be a gap of one hand’s span between the top of the flanks and the back of the panel. This prevents the saddle sitting on the unprotected loins.
If there is less than one hand’s span the saddle is too long. Likewise, if there is more the saddle is too short.
When standing directly behind the horse, you should be able to see daylight all the way through the gullet. This prevents the saddle sitting on the horse’s spine.
If daylight cannot be easily seen, the saddle is sat too low on the horse’s back.
From the front of the saddle, you should be able to see daylight all the way through the gullet.
If daylight cannot be easily seen, the saddle is sat too low on the horse’s back.
When standing at side, the saddle should appear the correct size and fit for the horse.
