Saddle Fitting SEQ

26/04/2025

Massive thanks to my amazing clients for joining with me on this saddle-fitting journey!
It's such a privilege working with each unique horse – every back presents its own fascinating puzzle!
If anyone knows me well I love puzzles!
As fitters, we all bring our own perspective to finding the best solution. 😉 Your patience and understanding as we explore those differences together, ensuring ultimate comfort and performance, is truly appreciated. You and your wonderful horses make the work so rewarding! 🐴

25/04/2025

Does your horse need time to warm up or time for their back to go numb?

Let's think about it!

Did you know an ill-fitting saddle can actually cause temporary numbness in your horse's back? 😬 Pressure from a poorly designed or incorrectly fitted saddle can restrict blood flow to the nerves, leading to that "pins and needles" feeling, just like when your own leg falls asleep! 🐴🩸

While it might seem minor, this is a sign of discomfort and potential tissue damage. Ignoring these subtle cues can lead to bigger problems down the road.

Is your saddle truly working *with* your horse's unique conformation? 🤔 A proper fit ensures even weight distribution and allows for healthy circulation and nerve function.

Here's a thought-provoking question:
We often hear that horses "warm up" to subside certain behaviors. But could some of those improvements be because their backs are going numb under pressure, rather than the muscles truly loosening up? 🤯 It's a challenging idea, but one worth considering!

Don't let your horse suffer in silence! Regular saddle checks by a qualified fitter are essential for their comfort and well-being. ❤️

Photo of our cute little pally c**t Beau!
Livvy Burton

23/04/2025

It's often the case that people feel overwhelmed or disappointed with themselves during a fitting. I get it; it can be uncomfortable to be confronted with the fact that what you thought was right and best for your horse wasn't quite right.
I often have clients cry and say, "Oh wow, I've never seen him so relaxed under saddle," or, "Wow, look how much more movement and forwardness he has."
Learning that some of their quirky behaviors are actually a horse trying to tell you they are in pain or experiencing discomfort, instead of being labeled as—"Oh, he can just be a bit stubborn or naughty; just be a bit firmer with him, push him through it"—is significant.
What I hear is, "Ignore the pain, accept it, and yield to what I want you to do."
This isn't to say that owners are intentionally disregarding their horse's welfare; it's that traditional teaching of horse handling and training has led to significant oversight of equine communication, even with the best intentions for our horses.
What do you do differently now than you used to?

19/04/2025

The real glitch - Peoples way of thinking 🤔

Time for a potentially spicy take in the saddle fitting world... 🔥
Does a hefty price tag and a fancy brand name always equal a happy horse? 🤔

We're often bombarded with marketing showcasing luxurious saddles and prestigious brands. It's easy to assume that spending more automatically guarantees the best comfort and fit for our equine partners. ✨

But here's the controversial bit: your horse doesn't inherently care about the label. They care about pressure points, freedom of movement, and a saddle that complements their unique shape. 🐴

Now, let's be clear: expensive saddles can and often do fit horses beautifully! They can be made with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship, potentially offering better longevity and a more refined feel for both horse and rider.

💢However, the key word is can.💢
An expensive saddle designed for a particular breed or back shape won't magically fit every horse. Just like a designer shoe that's the wrong size will still cause blisters, a high-end saddle with the wrong tree or panel design will still create discomfort.

I've seen countless expensive saddles that are a terrible fit, causing discomfort and even pain. Conversely, I've also seen more "budget-friendly" or less hyped saddles that, when correctly fitted, allow a horse to move with ease and joy. 🎉

The truth is, the magic lies in the fit, not the fanfare. A well-fitted "lesser" brand will always outperform an ill-fitting top-tier one.

So, are we sometimes prioritizing prestige over genuine equine well-being? Are we swayed by marketing and aesthetics more than our horse's feedback?

Let's shift the focus. Instead of asking
‼️What's the best brand?"

Perhaps we should be asking ❓️

‼️What's the best fit for my horse, regardless of the name on the saddle?

What are your experiences with saddle brands and fit? Let's discuss! 👇

18/04/2025

The face when you realise saddle fitting can change so much fornyour horse.

Happy Good Friday all! 🐰🐇

Be sure to treat your ponies to some extra treats this Easter 🥕🥕🥕

Alice Champion-lal
🥰🥰🥰🥰

17/04/2025

Why are we putting our wants infront of our horses comfort?

Let's talk about something that sometimes feels like a bit of a disconnect in the horse world... 🤔
Why do we often expect our horses to "make do" with saddles we've chosen, yet we're generally compassionate and understanding about the vast range of human body types and clothing needs? 🤔

💢 💢 Think about it: we acknowledge that one-size-fits-all rarely works for people. We have diverse clothing brands catering to different shapes, sizes, and comfort preferences. We understand that forcing someone into ill-fitting clothes can be uncomfortable, even painful.

Yet, when it comes to our horses, sometimes the initial focus can be on our preferences – the style we like, the brand we trust, or even what's readily available or budget-friendly (this is usually the main focus). We might try to make a saddle "work" with extra padding or adjustments, rather than acknowledging that its fundamental shape might simply be wrong for our horse's unique build.

Is it because horses can't verbally express their discomfort in the same way? Does the tradition of tacking up sometimes overshadow the crucial element of individual fit?

💢🤔 Just like we wouldn't expect everyone to comfortably wear the same size and cut of jeans, we shouldn't expect every saddle to magically suit every horse. Their conformation – the shape of their back, withers, and shoulders – is just as individual and deserving of consideration.

‼️ Perhaps a shift in perspective is needed. Instead of expecting our horses to adapt to what we've bought, maybe the starting point should always be: what truly fits this specific horse?

Let's bring the same level of empathy and understanding we have for human body diversity to our equine partners. Their comfort and well-being depend on it. ❤️

What are your thoughts on this? Let's have an open and respectful discussion! 👇

One size fits all is like getting a doggy door for you chihuahua and expect your great dane
🐕🐕🐕🐕

17/04/2025

15/04/2025

STORY TIME TUESDAY 🦄🥰🐴

Just another reminder while these stories are true the names have been changed.
The photo is of one of my beautiful clients!

Think your horse's back feels every *bounce*? 🤔 Let's talk about "The Bouncing Rider" phenomenon! ⬆️⬇️

Meet Jet, a talented jumper whose enthusiasm started to wane. His owner, Ben, was dedicated but had a tendency to be a bit… springy in the saddle over fences. While Jet's saddle fit on the ground, the dynamic impact of Ben's bouncing was causing real discomfort and stiffness in Jet's back muscles. 😫

It's a classic reminder that saddle fit is a two-way street! Even a perfectly shaped saddle can create pressure points if the rider's movement isn't balanced and absorbing. 🔄

💢For Ben and Jet, the focus shifted to:

‼️Finding Ben's "inner shock absorber": Learning to move with Jet, not on him.

‼️Strengthening Ben's core:
Creating a more stable platform in the saddle.

‼️Refining jumping technique:
Minimizing unnecessary vertical movement.

The result? A Jet who's now eager to jump, with a relaxed back and improved performance! 🚀 And a Ben who's riding with greater feel and connection. ✨

The big lesson?
Our bodies have a profound impact on our horses. Developing a stable and responsive seat isn't just about rider effectiveness – it's crucial for equine comfort and longevity! ❤️

Have you ever focused on improving your seat for your horse's sake? Share your tips! 👇

14/04/2025

🦄The Saddle Store vs. The Horse's Back:

Why Your Dream Saddle Might Not Be so Dreamy 🤔

We've all been there. You walk into a tack store, excited to find the perfect saddle. You climb aboard a display saddle, and it feels amazing!
The balance is perfect, the seat is comfortable, and you can't wait to get it on your horse. But then you get it home, put it on your horse, and the magic is gone. What happened?

The answer lies in the difference between sitting in a saddle on a store stool and putting it on a horse's back.

💢 Store Stools vs. Horse Shapes 💢

Store stools are typically flat and rigid or have a completely different whither shape and back shape to your horse, while horses have a more complex and dynamic shape. When you sit in a saddle on a store stool, you're not experiencing the way the saddle interacts with a living, breathing animal.

Here are some key differences to consider:

‼️ Wither Clearance:

In the store, you can't assess how the saddle sits on your horse's withers. A saddle that feels comfortable on a flat stool may pinch or put pressure on your horse's withers when it's on their back.

‼️ Panel Fit:

The way the saddle panels contact your horse's back is crucial for comfort and performance. In the store, you can't see how the panels conform to your horse's unique shape and muscle development.

‼️ Movement:

When you sit in a saddle on a store stool, you're not experiencing the way the saddle moves with your horse as they walk, trot, and canter. A saddle that feels stable on a stationary stool may rock or slip when your horse is in motion.

‼️ Rider Influence:

Your own riding position and weight distribution can significantly impact how the saddle fits your horse. In the store, you're not experiencing the way your riding affects the saddle's fit.

So, what can you do to ensure a good saddle fit?

Get a professional saddle fitting:
A qualified saddle fitter can assess your horse's conformation, observe your riding style, and help you find a saddle that fits both you and your horse.

Try the saddle on your horse:
Don't just rely on how the saddle feels in the store.
It is scary to know how many people buy what they like!
Make sure to try it on your horse and see how it fits and performs.

💢💢💢 Be patient: 💢💢💢
Finding the right saddle can take time. Don't rush the process.

Remember, a well-fitting saddle is essential for both your horse's comfort and your own riding enjoyment. So, take the time to find a saddle that's the perfect fit for both of you!**

12/04/2025

Ever feel like navigating saddle fitting advice is like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded?

😵‍💫 You're not alone! There's a whole spectrum of views on the "right" way to fit a saddle. Let alone train a horse, feed a horse, shoe a horse etc.

Here's why the waters can seem so murky:

‼️‼️ It's Not One-Size-Fits-All (Literally!):

Every horse is a unique anatomical puzzle! Conformation, muscle development, movement, and even breed variations mean what works for one won't work for another. Different fitters may prioritize different aspects based on their experience with various horse types. Aswell as previous injuries can have a MAJOR impact.

‼️ Evolution of Knowledge:

Like any field, our understanding of equine biomechanics and saddle design is constantly evolving. New research and technologies lead to updated best practices, and sometimes, differing interpretations of that information.

‼️ Subjectivity vs. Objectivity:

While objective measurements are crucial, there's also a degree of subjective assessment involved. Feel, experience, and even the fitter's "eye" can play a role, leading to varied approaches.

‼️ Training and Background:

Saddle fitters come from diverse backgrounds, some are master saddlers, others are equine therapists, vets, or have learned through apprenticeships or not have any formal education whatsoever!
Their training and focus can influence their assessment methods.

‼️ Tool Variations:
Different fitters utilize different tools and technologies (e.g., pressure mapping, templates, static vs. dynamic assessment), which can lead to varying data and interpretations.

‼️ Industry Influence:
Saddle manufacturers and retailers may have their own guidelines or training programs, which can sometimes create a bias or preferred method.

‼️ Experience and Specialization:
A fitter who primarily works with dressage horses might have a different approach than someone specializing in jumping or Western disciplines, where saddle demands differ.

‼️ Communication Challenges:

Explaining complex biomechanics and saddle fit principles in a clear and consistent way can be challenging, leading to misunderstandings and differing opinions within the equestrian community.

🦄🦄🦄 The takeaway?

While the core goal is ALWAYS horse comfort and welfare, the *path* to achieving that can have many different routes. Look for a qualified fitter who can clearly explain their methods and prioritize your horse's individual needs!

Asking questions and seeking multiple perspectives (while being discerning!) can empower you to make the best decisions for your equine partner. 🐴❤️

What's been your experience with saddle fitting advice? Share in the comments! 👇

09/04/2025

🦄 It's not just about the width of your saddle's channel, but the angle of the panels that's crucial for your horse's comfort! 🤔 Think of it like this: a perfectly spaced bridge won't work if its supports don't match the landscape! 🌉🐴

‼️‼️‼️Why Panel Angle Matters (and why it works with space!):

‼️ Following the Back's Contours: The angle of the saddle panels needs to mirror the natural shape of your horse's back. A good fit ensures even contact and weight distribution across the supporting muscles.

💖 Preventing Bridging & Rocking:

💢 Too Steep:
Panels that are too upright can "bridge" in the middle, creating pressure points at the front and back while losing contact in the center. This leads to rocking and instability. ➡️ Sore spots & restricted movement.

💢 Too Flat:
Panels that are too flat on a more curved back will only contact in the middle, creating excessive pressure there and gapping at the front and back. ➡️ Pain & instability.

📐Even Weight Distribution = Happy Back:

When the panel angle is correct, the rider's weight is distributed evenly over a larger surface area, minimizing pressure points and allowing the horse to move freely and comfortably.

💪 Working with Spinal Clearance:

The space between the pannels ensures the saddle clears the spine. The angle ensures the panels then sit correctly on the muscles alongside the spine. You need BOTH for optimal spinal comfort! Imagine a wide bridge with supports that are angled inwards or outwards - it wouldn't be stable or comfortable!

💖Long-Term Soundness:

A saddle with the correct panel angle and adequate spinal clearance helps prevent long-term back issues, muscle imbalances, and gait abnormalities.

Think of it as a perfect hug for your horse's back! 🤗 Both the width (space) and the shape (angle) need to be just right!

😅😅😅 Yes - also please pick on me for my poor work footwear 😂 This was meant to be a day off but my lovely sister got lucky!

Have you ever considered your saddle's panel angle? Share your thoughts below! 👇

08/04/2025

🦄 STORY TIME TUESDAY 🦄

While this story is true, we have changed names for the privacy of our clients.

🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎

Rio, a handsome gelding, was starting to show some resistance. Tina, his devoted owner, was puzzled. "He's just not right on the left bend," she sighed, "and he's really tight." I arrived, ready to play detective. 🕵️‍♀️

Rio's back told a story. A little tense, especially on the left. The saddle? Seemed balanced enough on the stand. But as Tina tacked up and rode, the real culprit revealed itself. Tina, it turned out, had a slight twist in her pelvis, a legacy from years of driving. Her right shoulder dipped a little, and her weight distribution was off.

The saddle pad, like a silent witness, confirmed my suspicions. Uneven sweat marks painted a clear picture – Tina's subtle asymmetry was creating significant pressure points for Rio. 😥

"It's amazing," Tina said, watching the replay of her riding on my tablet, "I never even noticed!"

We spent the session not just adjusting the saddle, but adjusting Tina standing infront of a mirror trying out multiple exercise to really nut out where she was holding tension and restriction.
I showed her exercises to help stretch and strengthen her pelvis reffered her to a physio, I recommended basic stretches for Rio's tight muscles and reffered to a body worker, we talked about the delicate balance between horse and rider. It wasn't just about the saddle; it was about the partnership. 🤝

A couple weeks later, I returned. Rio was moving more freely, his left bend smoother. Tina, more aware of her posture, was riding with a newfound lightness. The tension was gone, replaced by a relaxed, happy horse. 😊

This case reminded me, yet again, that saddle fitting isn't just about the equipment. It's about understanding the whole picture – the horse, the rider, and the invisible threads that connect them. Sometimes, the solution isn’t in the saddle, but in the seat. 💖

04/04/2025

🤔 Could you be the problem? 🫣

Did you know that even with a perfectly fitted saddle, your riding position can drastically affect how it sits on your horse? 🤯 It's not just about the saddle!
We want a partnership for the saddle to support you to!

🛑 Uneven Weight Distribution:
If you lean to one side or sit crooked, you're creating uneven pressure.
🎯This forces the saddle to shift, causing discomfort and potential soreness.
🛑 Rider Imbalance:
Rider imbalance directly translates to horse imbalance.
This includes injuries, strains, breaks, tears even stress!
This can create pressure points and affect the horse's movement.
🛑 Asymmetrical Riding:
If you have one dominant side, it can lead to uneven pressure on the horse's back. This can impact the saddle's balance and stability.
🎯Riding Style:
Bouncing or heavy-handed riding can create excessive pressure on the horse's back.
This can lead to saddle movement and discomfort.
🛑 Muscle Tension:
Rider tension can translate to tension in the horse.
This can change the horses back shape under the saddle.

💥💥What you can do:

Rider Biomechanics:
Work with a riding instructor to improve your position and balance.
💢💢Regular Saddle Checks:
Even with good riding, regular checks ensure the saddle still fits with your influence.
🛑 Awareness:
Be mindful of your posture and how it affects your horse.

Let's work together for happy, comfortable horses! 🐎❤️
Photo is from Horses Inside Out, check their website to learn more!!!

02/04/2025

It’s easy to focus on the saddle itself when assessing fit, but what’s happening below the horse can have a profound impact! As a saddle fitter, I've seen firsthand how uneven hoof angles and imbalances can create a domino effect, leading to significant saddle fit issues.

💥Let's dive into why this happens:

💥💥The Hoof-to-Saddle Connection:

🎯 Foundation First:
Think of your horse's hooves as the foundation of their posture. When that foundation is uneven, it throws everything else out of alignment.
🎯 Compensatory Posture:
Horses are masters of compensation. To deal with uneven weight distribution from imbalanced hooves, they'll often shift their weight, leading to uneven muscle development and a crooked posture.
🎯 Impact on the Back:
This altered posture directly affects the horse's back shape, making it difficult for the saddle to sit level and distribute weight evenly.
🎯 Saddle Slippage & Pressure Points:
A saddle that's constantly shifting or tilting to compensate for hoof imbalances creates pressure points, causing discomfort and potential back soreness. This can manifest as resistance, behavioral changes, or even lameness.
🎯 Gait Alterations:
Hoof imbalances can disrupt the horse's natural gait. This altered movement pattern further compounds saddle fit issues, as the saddle is moving on an uneven surface.

💥💥 What to Look For 💥💥

🎯 Visible differences in hoof angles, both front-to-front and hind-to-hind.
🎯 Uneven wear patterns on shoes, indicating inconsistent weight bearing.
🎯 Saddle consistently slipping to one side, despite adjustments.
🎯 Signs of discomfort, such as tail swishing, pinning ears, or reluctance to move forward.
🎯 Visible uneveness of the horse's shoulders.

The Solution:

🛑 Prioritize Hoof Health:
Regular, precise trimming and balancing by a qualified farrier are essential.
🛑 Farrier Collaboration:
Open communication between your farrier and saddle fitter is crucial.
🛑 Address Hoof Issues First:
Before any saddle fitting, ensure your horse's hooves are in optimal condition.
🛑 Regular Saddle Checks:
Monitor saddle fit closely, especially after farrier visits, as changes in hoof balance can affect saddle fit.

Don't let uneven hooves sabotage your saddle fit and your horse's comfort! Understanding this connection is key to ensuring a happy and sound partnership.

Have you noticed a link between your horse's hooves and saddle fit? Share your experiences and questions below!

NOTE: Not all saddle fitting issues are hoof related! This is a great area to look at.

Photos and hoof information can be found at Progressive Equine Services & Hoof Care Centre

30/03/2025

As a dedicated saddle fitter, I'm often the first point of contact when asymmetry is noticed.
It's a complex issue, and it requires a trained eye and a systematic approach.

YOU NEED A TEAM TO HELP!

Here's how I tackle it:

My Approach to Asymmetry:

Observation:
I begin with a thorough static assessment, analyzing the horse's conformation for muscle imbalances, shoulder and hip discrepancies, and overall posture.

This visual assessment is crucial for understanding the horse's natural tendencies.

Tactile Evaluation:
Palpation is key. I carefully feel the horse's back, noting any areas of tension, heat, or sensitivity that may indicate saddle-related pressure points.

Dynamic Analysis:
Watching the horse move, both in hand and under saddle, reveals how asymmetry impacts their gait and performance. This helps me connect static observations to real-time movement.

Saddle Assessment:
I evaluate the saddle's balance, pressure distribution, and tree width. A poorly fitting saddle is a frequent culprit in asymmetry.

Rider Interaction:
I consider the rider's influence, observing their position and riding style, as these can significantly contribute to the horse's imbalances.

Holistic Solutions:
My goal is to provide comprehensive solutions. This may include saddle adjustments, new saddle recommendations, or referrals to trusted veterinarians, chiropractors, or farriers.

We also provide rider education where needed.

And very importantly, recommend follow up appointments.

My aim is to provide the most comfortable and functional outcome for both horse and rider.

Have questions about asymmetry or saddle fit?

Drop them in the comments!

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24/03/2025

We are back in town !
Have limited slots for fittings as we are booking up super quick!
Available in most areas!
Contact us today 🥰