15/04/2025
I recently had the pleasure of spending some time with Jane Randall from Bay Saddlery Ltd. We were sharing thoughts and ideas relating to our common experiences with ridden horses. One problem that we both see a lot is saddle slip/movement.
Undesirable saddle movement is a common problem, saddles can move in several ways during use, but I’d like to focus here on a particular type of movement, that of forward slip. This is when a saddle creeps forward, ending up in a position which is too far forward onto the horse’s shoulders, potentially causing discomfort. I see the consequences of this in my Osteopathy and Massage work.
What causes forward slip? Forward slip is common with horses and ponies that have low withers, and wider conformation. It is particularly common in smaller ponies who have wide ribcages and narrower shoulders. Forward slip can also be caused by a saddle that is too wide, or too narrow, particularly if it is unbalanced front to back, with the cantle sitting low. There is however a cause of saddle slip which is not as often talked about, and that is the rider!
A rider may have movement patterns which encourage the saddle to become unbalanced. Perhaps by sitting too much towards the cantle, or sometimes, by literally ‘walking’ the saddle forwards. This ‘walking’ effect happens most in rising trot, if the rider has not yet developed the skill and balance to rise in a way which keeps their body aligned slightly in front of their lower leg. The action of using the stirrups to lever themselves forward over feet that are often too far forward, creates a rocking action in the saddle. The pommel lifts as the rider sits down (too far back), then during rising the weight is thrown forward onto the stirrup bars, ‘walking’ the saddle forward. I have seen this many times during my years of teaching. I believe that, subject to the saddle being of a suitable size and fit for horse and rider, much can be done to solve this through education of the rider, with exercises to help develop their balance, strength, and correct riding position.
If your saddle is slipping forwards, or indeed anywhere, first consult your saddler. Then, if the fit has been assured, seek the advice of an experienced instructor to help you develop your seat, it could just make all the difference! The discussion between Jane and myself highlighted the importance of teamwork across a range of professionals to enable the best outcomes for horse and rider. Jane has a great range of saddle designs and is fully committed to the comfort of horses and riders. I look forward to working alongside Jane in providing my range of services to assist her clients.
