Saddle Fitting
- Mar 27
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 1
2026 Newsletter Article
To achieve a comfortable and effective saddle fit, ensure the saddle distributes weight evenly, provides adequate clearance at the spine and withers, & allows for proper rider balance and stability.
Saddle Placement and Balance
Centre of the Seat: The center of the saddle seat should be centered over the lowest point on the horse's back.
Saddle Position: The saddle should sit squarely in the center of the horse's back, with the tree parallel to the withers & behind the shoulder blade.
Stability: The saddle should not rock or tilt forward or backward and should remain stable during movement.
Level Seat: The saddle seat should be level, and the gullet should be wide & high enough to clear the spine with a rider.
Tree and Panel Fit
Withers Clearance: Ensure there's sufficient clearance between the saddle tree & The horse’s withers to prevent pinching or rubbing.
Gullet Clearance: The gullet should allow for a channel over the horse's spine & clear the sides of the vertebrae.
Saddle Shape: The saddle should fit the horse's shape and the rider's needs, with an appropriately shaped tree and panels.
Saddle Tree: Look for symmetry and any twisting of the tree.
Rider Considerations:
Stirrup Placement: Proper stirrup placement allows the rider's leg to hang straight below their body for dressage & trail riding & forward for jumping.
Rider Balance: The saddle should allow the rider to maintain a balanced &stable position.
Cantle & Pommel: The cantle should be level with, or higher than, the pommel.
Girth and Billet Placement
Girth Groove: The positioning of the girth groove is important for saddle stability & comfort.
Billet Placement: Billet placement and the placement of the buckles are important for keeping the saddle stable and the horse comfortable.
Girth Type: A well-fitting girth accommodates the location of the girth groove and helps keep the saddle in the correct place.
Regular Checks and Adjustments
Professional Saddle Fitting: Have your saddle regularly assessed by a professional saddle fitter.
Horse's Condition: Changes in the horse's condition and fitness can impact saddle fit, so regular checks are important.
Saddle Pad: Evaluate saddle fit without a saddle pad or blanket to ensure proper contact.
If you have a go-to Professional Saddle Fitter, we welcome you to leave their name/details in the comments for other members to refer to if looking for one.
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