The Standard Saddle Fit is designed for riders who want a professional saddle fitting, a detailed review of their current saddle, and accurate measurements,while handling saddle shopping independently.
This service includes a complete saddle fitting session, evaluation of your existing saddle and tack, and custom cardboard templates that allow you to confidently assess saddle fit when shopping on your own.
Standard Saddle Fit
Comprehensive Horse Assessment
I begin by reviewing your horse’s history, workload, and any changes you’ve noticed. Your horse is evaluated standing and moving without a saddle, allowing me to assess symmetry, muscle development, and subtle signs of discomfort.
If your horse presents with open wounds or acute pain, the session will be discontinued and rescheduled.
Measurements
Using chalk and precision measurement tools, I identify scapula movement, the saddle support area and optimal rider balance point
I then take detailed back and wither measurements and create custom cardboard cutouts/templates that represent your horse’s shape at key points. These templates allow you to eliminate poor-fitting saddles quickly and focus only on realistic options while shopping.
Current Saddle Evaluation
If you currently own a saddle, it will be evaluated both statically and, when appropriate, under motion. I assess saddle balance and stability, pressure patterns, compatibility with your horse’s measurements, cinch width, length, and material.
Ridden Evaluation
When safe and appropriate, I observe you riding in all three gaits (if comfortable!). I will look at saddle stability under motion, horse comfort and freedom of movement and rider balance and support
A saddle must work for both horse and rider to be considered a correct fit.
Tack & Discipline Considerations
Pads, breast collars, rear cinches, and discipline-specific equipment are reviewed. Whether you ride Western, English, endurance, trail, barrel, dressage, or jump, the right tack setup can significantly affect comfort and performance.
