Evaluating the suitability of an English saddle for a horse and rider combination

Abstract

Correct saddle-fit for horse and rider is crucial for optimal comfort and performance. Poor saddle-fit is a frequent contributor to suboptimal performance but is often overlooked. The most common problems are incorrect tree width, the saddle positioned too close to the scapulae thus compromising forelimb movement, a pommel with inadequate clearance at the withers or a gullet which is effectively made too small by excessive padding under the saddle. The saddle provides the interface between the rider and the horse's thoracolumbar region. A rider that is too large for the saddle, out of balance or crooked will result in uneven force distribution under the saddle. Thus, rider position and stability in the saddle are also of vital importance for optimal performance. The assessment of saddle-fit for horse and rider is considered an integral part of poor performance evaluation.

Application of a Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram and Its Relationship with Gait in a Convenience Sample of 60 Riding Horses

“…However, in the current study, saddle fit did not influence the RHpE score. Nonetheless, a change from an ill-fitting saddle to a better fitting saddle may have a dramatic influence on ridden horse behaviour [ 39 ]. Twenty-one horses were assessed ridden by a single professional rider in both a well-fitting saddle and an ill-fitting saddle [ 40 ].…”

Gait abnormalities and ridden horse behaviour in a convenience sample of the United Kingdom ridden sports horse and leisure horse population

“…2015; Bondi et al . 2020). The type of noseband (cavesson, crank cavesson, flash, crank flash, grackle, drop, Micklem, Supplementary Item ) and the correctness of fit (ISES 2012), or the absence of a noseband, was recorded.…”

Ultrasonographic features associated with the lumbosacral or lumbar 5–6 symphyses in 64 horses with lumbosacral‐sacroiliac joint region pain (2012–2018)

“…Horses (n = 25 of 25 [Group 1] + 13 of 39 [Group 2] = 38 horses) were also evaluated ridden, unless it was inappropriate to do so (unbroken horses, breeding stock and horses considered potentially unsafe). Saddle fit was routinely assessed by the investigating clinician (Harman ; Society of Master Saddlers ; Bondi et al ), and if the saddle was considered to possibly contribute to discomfort, it was replaced by a better fitting saddle.…”