FAQ's

1. My horse isn't performing like it used to, could this be due to the saddle?

Yes. Two things we would need to know before helping you with this problem would be, did you have your saddle professionally fitted? When did you last have it checked?

2. How often should I get my saddle checked?

Every year unless your horse has had a period of time off, you have changed your horses exercise regime or you have any other concerns.

3. My horse is sensitive over his back, when brushing him. Could this be due to the saddle?

Yes, this could be your horse's way of telling you it is uncomfortable. The saddle may need to be re-flocked, the tree may be broken or twisted or it may be that your horse has changed shape, in which case you would need your saddle to be checked and possibly re-fitted or replaced.

4. My horse makes faces when tacking up, could this be associated with ill-fitting tack?

Yes, this could be your horse's way of telling you it is uncomfortable. The saddle may not be fitting correctly or you may be using an ill-fitting bridle or bit.

5. My horse has become increasingly hard to mount, what could be causing this?

An uncomfortable saddle can be associated with this.

6. My horse has become short strided walking down hill, could this be something to do with my saddle?

The saddle may be catching him behind his shoulder, either a saddle that is too narrow or too wide can cause this problem.

7. My horse has become 'Cold backed', is this due to discomfort in the saddle area?

Yes. The rider may have grown out of the saddle causing the weight to be sitting too far back. The shape of the saddle may also be wrong for the horse.

8. I don't seem to be sitting straight, is this the horse or saddle?

There are many reasons for this problem. The saddle's tree may not be sound, the flocking may not be level or the horse may have muscled more one side.

9. I have been told my saddle is too long for my horse, how do I measure this?

Your horse should have a professional to fit the saddle, these instructions are simply a guideline. You need to feel for the last rib on your horse's side, drawing a straight line up towards his loins, measure 1" 3/4 forwards. This is approximately where the back panel of your saddle should finish.

10. When my stirrups are at jumping length, I'm not getting enough support. What can I do?

You can have a saddle with a bigger seat if your horse can accommodate this or you could change to a jumping saddle.