KH Equine

10/30/2026

Is It Time for the Side Saddle to Evolve?

Over the past several decades, modern saddle design has continued to evolve. Advances in our understanding of equine anatomy, biomechanics, pressure distribution, spinal movement, and welfare have influenced how saddles are designed, constructed, and fitted.

We’ve seen changes in tree design, panel construction, materials, weight distribution, and the ways in which saddles accommodate the horse’s movement. While not every innovation represents an improvement, the broader conversation surrounding saddle design has increasingly focused on the horse beneath it.

But what about the side saddle?

The traditional side saddle is a remarkable piece of craftsmanship and engineering, developed and refined over generations. Yet much of what we continue to ride in today is based on designs that are well over a century old.

Could we take what we’ve learned from modern saddle design and apply it to the side saddle?

Could advances in tree technology, panel design, materials, and our understanding of equine biomechanics help us develop side saddles that better accommodate the modern horse and rider?

And perhaps more importantly, could we do so without sacrificing the craftsmanship, functionality, elegance, and traditions that make the side saddle so extraordinary?

I believe there is an opportunity to explore how we might bring the side saddle forward while respecting the knowledge and skills of the saddlers who developed it.

This isn’t about suggesting that traditional side saddles are inherently unsuitable, or that modern designs are automatically superior. It’s about recognizing that our understanding of the horse continues to develop, and asking whether our saddlery should continue developing alongside it.

I’d love to hear from riders, saddlers, saddle fitters, and others involved in the side saddle community. What aspects of modern saddle design do you think could—or should—be explored in the future development of the side saddle?

Can we preserve the tradition while continuing to improve the design?

10/12/2026

In November, I will be returning to the UK to continue my deep dive into saddlery skills! I cannot thank the Walsall Leather Skills Centre and Keith Bryan enough for what they have taught me and continue to teach.

This adventure will take me into a few important saddlery locations, learning more about the many aspects of the craft from tree to saddle nails and all the work in between!

I will try harder to make sure to share pictures this trip!!

10/09/2026

⚔️ ARNE KOETS — HISTORICAL DRESSAGE & MOUNTED COMBAT CLINIC

📅 March 23–24, 2027
📍 Marietta, Pennsylvania

Join internationally renowned historical rider and instructor Arne Koets for two intensive days exploring the horsemanship behind historical mounted combat.

🐎 MOUNTED PARTICIPANT — $675
Includes both days of paired mounted instruction, daily group lessons, historical theory and lectures, and full clinic access.

Limited to just 12 mounted participants!

👁️ AUDITOR REGISTRATION

* Single Day — $75
* Both Days — $125

Auditors enjoy access to mounted instruction, demonstrations, and daily lectures and discussions with Arne.

🏇 Optional On-Site Stabling — TDB

Whether you’re a historical rider, mounted combatant, or enthusiast of historical horsemanship, this is a rare opportunity to study the principles of the old masters and put them back to work.

The riding comes before the weapon.

Coming soon!

10/09/2026

05/05/2026

Guess how they know sidesaddles work on this!!

Honestly, as a fitter, a common issue we find is caused by your saddle rack. Bars on most saddle racks leave indentations that affect the fit and comfort of your saddle.

For what all saddles cost, put them on something that protects them!

05/03/2026

I cannot agree more with how important this is!
Most famous maker saddles are 100 years old….. old leather, old wool, old tree…..but few consider the critical connection of old thread!

05/02/2026

I am back from Idaho! As always, it was an amazing group of riders, clinicians and support staff! This year, tow instructors were brought from international locations, Stacey Rusic and Kaitlyn Kernek! I somehow managed to transport not 1 or 2 sidesaddles, but 3 of them in my various boxes and luggage! All arrived safely and two went on to the homes, while my personal saddle, built during my last visit to the UK was available to try during my visit.

05/02/2026

My last (Aug 2025) training visit to the UK Walsall Leather Skills Centre