Saddle Fitting
A saddle fitting session is an opportunity for both you and me, to look at the horse through a holistic lens. Saddle fitting sessions can last up to 1.5 hours and will never be rushed. A session is always judgment free and focused on creating a learning experience for the rider, resulting in a proper fitting saddle that both horse and rider are comfortable in.
During a saddle fitting session, we start with a thorough assessment of your horse. Together we go over your horse’s details, any changes you’ve noticed, and I check for subtle signs of discomfort by doing a full back assessment. I will look at your horse both stationary and moving without the saddle on. If your horse shows extreme signs of discomfort (open wounds, pain,..), the fitting will be discontinued and rescheduled after a vet visit took place.
Next, I trace the horse with chalk. We look at the movement of the scapula, we determine the saddle support area and where your center of gravity should be for optimal comfort of the horse. After this, I will take measurements.This will help me track your horse’s muscle development over time, which is really valuable for future fittings.
I also examine your current saddle. The material, rigging, skirting, buckles, nails,.. If everything looks good, we evaluate the fit on your horse while standing. We feel under the saddle for excess pressure and use the templates to compare those outcomes with the shape of your saddle. I also check your cinch and make sure it is the correct width, length and material for your horse.
If the saddle is safe to ride in, we head to the arena and I watch you in all three gaits. I look at stability, comfort, and how the saddle supports both you and your horse. Sometimes a saddle fits the horse beautifully but doesn’t work for the rider.. Both of you need to be comfortable!
During a fitting, I also take a look at your pad, and if you use them, your breast collar and rear cinch. Whether you do dressage, jumping, eventing, endurance, trail ride, barrel race, rope, or rein, every discipline has its own needs when it comes to tack. The right setup can make a big difference in your horse’s comfort and in how well you as a duo, can perform in the arena. A pad alone can completely change how a saddle sits and how your horse feels underneath it.
My goal is a horse that moves freely and a rider who feels balanced, safe, and confident.
Practical Info
Please have your horse groomed and dry before the appointment.
Have your saddle(s) ready to go.
Make sure your pad is clean.
Ideally, use your own stirrups, breast collar, leathers, and cinch/girth.
Let me know ahead of time if you will not be riding during the session.
A full consult typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Travel + Discounts:
For bookings over 60 miles, please fill out the contact form or email sarah@buckingbelgian.com for a custom travel quote.
📌 Reduced rates are available for barns scheduling multiple horses during the same visit.
