08/25/2025
A lot of trainers have what they call a “colt starting saddle,” and I’ve heard plenty of owners say, “I’m not getting this horse his own saddle until he’s done growing.”
But the truth is, if we’re going to ride horses before they’re fully developed, the years that saddle fit matters most are the first ones.
A two, three, or four-year-old back is still a work in progress. The spine and the base of the neck are the last areas to fully develop, usually not until around five or six for most breeds. So when we swing a leg over a young horse, we’re putting weight and pressure on a body that’s still changing.
Every ride during those years can shape how that back develops, how the horse uses its body, whether in healthy patterns or compensations - and ultimately, how sound they stay long-term.
This doesn’t mean you need a brand-new saddle every year. A good-fitting base can often be adjusted with pads, shims, or different cinches during the season.
But here’s the bottom line: if the saddle no longer fits, no amount of padding will fix it.
I’ll be honest, I hate saddle shopping. But I dislike rehabbing sore or sour horses even more. That’s why with my young ones, I plan and budget for changes, usually opting for quality used saddles.
Personally, I also don’t ride much before four, which helps avoid the biggest growth changes early on.
Checking saddle fit regularly on your youngsters is one of the best investments you can make in your horse’s future.
A horse that grows up comfortable under saddle moves better, stays sound longer, and is more willing to work for you.
