Independent Saddle Fitter
What is Saddle Fitting?
Saddle fitting is the process of ensuring a saddle correctly matches a horse's back and the rider's needs, distributing weight evenly to prevent pain, injury, and performance issues, allowing the horse freedom to move, and improving rider communication.
Horse assessment – standing & in motion
Helps identify stiffness, restriction, and asymmetry that can be linked to saddle fit.
Back & shoulder measurements
Ensures the saddle tree and panels match your horse’s shape instead of fighting it.
Saddle & pad evaluation
Checks balance, pressure points, gullet clearance, and how the pad interacts with the saddle.
Clear, unbiased recommendations
I’m independent. You get honest feedback and practical options that put your horse’s comfort first.
Not sure if your saddle fits?
Horses often show subtle behavioral or physical changes long before pain becomes obvious. This free one-page checklist helps you recognize common red flags that may indicate saddle discomfort, and when it’s time to call a professional fitter.
My name is Sarah, I am an independent saddle fitter and proud owner of Bucking Belgian Saddle Fitting LLC. Originally from Belgium, I’m now grateful to call Yelm, Washington State home.
I specialize in helping both horse and rider feel comfortable and confident. The right saddlefit allows the horse to move freely and the rider to stay balanced, creating a partnership built on mutual trust
I completed the World Class Western Saddle Fitter course with Wendy Winn and pursue ongoing education through Saddlefit4Life as part of my journey to becoming a certified equine ergonomist.
When trust grows, performance follows. I’d be grateful for the opportunity to help you and your horse feel and move their best.
FAQs
What Services do you offer?
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Bucking Belgian Saddle Fitting LLC offers professional saddle fitting services, including full saddle fitting evaluations, mini fit checks, measuring for new saddles, saddle pad evaluation, and educational services. All services focus on horse-first biomechanics, balance, and long-term comfort.
What is your Educational Background?
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I completed the World Class Western Saddle Fitter course with Wendy Winn and am now pursuing equine ergonomist training through Saddlefit4Life. On top of that I am completing separate coursework through the Online Academy of Equine Science (OAES).
What is an Independent Saddle Fitter?
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An independent saddle fitter is not tied to any single saddle brand. This means recommendations are unbiased and horse-first, based on fit, movement, and comfort, not sales. My focus is on evaluating the horse and rider together and finding the safest solution, whether that’s adjusting an existing saddle, exploring different options, or recommending no purchase at all.
I do not have consignment saddles. Instead, I provide clients with cardboard cutouts to help them shop confidently at tack stores, allowing them to explore options independently while staying focused on the horse’s fit and comfort.
Do you have Consignment Saddles?
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Can I buy a new saddle through you?
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Yes. I carry a selection of new saddles from the brands in my inventory and can measure your horse to help you find the perfect fit. You can purchase a new saddle directly through me, ensuring it’s thoughtfully selected to suit your horse and rider combination.
Bucking Belgian Saddle Fitting LLC serves Yelm, Thurston County, Pierce County, Kitsap County, King County and surrounding areas in Washington State. Travel to additional locations may be available by request. Please see my pricing sheet for details. For barn fits (3+ horses), a reduced mileage fee applies.
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What areas do you serve?
What if it rains? This is Washington State after all!
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For accurate and safe saddle fitting, footing needs to be dry. If you have an indoor arena or covered, dry space, no rescheduling is needed. Without dry footing, we will reschedule.
