A proper fit is essential for comfort and performance. A saddle that doesn’t fit your horse can lead to a host of issues including pain, poor performance and even injury. If you’re shopping for a new equestrian-grade saddle, it’s important to get it right from the get-go, or else you could be risking more than just a little discomfort. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to find the perfect fit before you drop a few Ben Franklins on a new set of leathers. Whether you’re shopping online or at a local tack store, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the perfect fit for your horse’s backside.A well-made equestrian-grade saddle will be designed to fit your horse’s individual build and conformation. This means that there will be a number of variations in size and shape, from a wide seat that can accommodate a horse with a wide-based or short wither to a narrow, slim saddle that will be just right for a horse with a long back and short, stifled legs.
Know your horse’s conformation.
If you have a thorough understanding of your horse’s conformation and anatomy, you’ll be able to choose a saddle that not only fits but also supports your horse’s needs. When you’re shopping for a new saddle, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with your horse’s conformation. It’s not enough to just know his age and breed; you’ll also need to understand what part of his anatomy is most in need of support.For example, if you have a draft horse that has a long back and short stifled legs, you’ll want to choose a saddle with a wide, padded channel on the backside to help support his spine. On the other hand, if you have a horse with a short wither and long, powerful loin, you’ll want to choose a saddle that has a narrow channel.
Check out the leathers.
You’ll want to start by choosing the right leather. There are a number of different leather types available on the market, including rawhide, synthetic and even leather-alternative materials like synthetic suede or synthetic sheepskin. Each type of leather has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to understand the difference between them before you make your final decision.Rawhide is the most common type of leather used in the creation of equestrian-grade saddles. It is affordable, natural, and breathable, all of which are important qualities for a quality piece of horse equipment.However, synthetic leathers like synthetic suede and synthetic sheepskin are often favored by riders who want their saddles to be more durable than a natural leather. They are also less expensive than rawhide, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious horse owners.
Go by size, not brand name.
When it comes to choosing the right size saddle, the first thing to do is determine which size you should go with. Once you’ve figured out your horse’s ideal size, you can then proceed to the brand selection process.There are a number of different saddle size systems used worldwide, but the two most common are the French and English systems.The French system is based on the length of the saddle, while the English system is based on the area across the withers (the thickest part of the horse’s back).The length of the saddle is important to keep in mind when trying to choose the right size for your horse. If the saddle sits too high and you have trouble keeping it in place due to your horse’s movements, the saddle is too short.A saddle that is too wide is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it’s not uncommon for a horse to outgrow a saddle as he matures. As long as your saddle isn’t too wide, it can be a good sign that your horse is growing.
Don’t forget to measure your horse’s backside.
When you’re shopping for a saddle, you’ll want to measure your horse’s backside to determine the ideal fit. There are a few ways to measure your horse’s backside. The most accurate method is to get a friend or second pair of eyes to help out. You can also use a measuring tape or a piece of rope.One of the most important things to remember when measuring your horse is that the standard measure for saddle size refers to the length of the horse’s backside, not his shoulders. If you choose to go with a shorter saddle, make sure that it’s long enough to provide enough support for your horse’s spine.
Have a professional help you choose the right fit.
If you’re shopping for a new set of leathers, it’s important to get help from a professional equestrian when choosing the best fit. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting the right size and type of leather for your horse’s build and performance level.If you’re shopping for a new equestrian-grade saddle, it’s best to visit a professional equestrian store that stocks a wide range of quality equestrian-grade leathers. You can also do a little research online to find the best place to buy equestrian-grade leathers.There are a few things to keep in mind when browsing the options available on the market. First of all, make sure that the leather is made from horse-specific materials. Second, make sure that it is made from a high quality of leather. You don’t want to settle for a low-quality leather that will easily tear or tear out after a few months of use. Finally, make sure that the leather is made from quality-grade materials.
Bottom line
Finding the perfect fit for your horse isn’t rocket science. All you need is a thorough knowledge of your horse’s conformation and a little patience. Once you’ve narrowed down your selection to a few good-looking saddles, it’s a good idea to make sure they’re sized correctly by measuring your horse’s backside.