03/10/2024
I am FAR from an expert on the topic, however, what I witnessed yesterday has left me pondering.
I have a friend who is looking for a new saddle. A rep for a popular brand came yesterday with several saddles to try. I did not let on my knowledge as I watched. The saddle she chose as the perfect fit - I ran my hands under and observed. It was SUPER tight under the rider seat L side, but not R. (foam panels, not adjustable) It rocked back and forth pommel to cantle. The saddle was sitting on the sensitive thoracic trapezius muscle on both sides. Rep advertised that the saddles are great for shoulder movement by showing how flexible panels are along the shoulder. She wasn't 100% satisfied with the fit once rider was in the saddle and added shims up front (putting more pressure on those trapezius muscles). What we know is the trapezius muscles lifts the shoulder and moves the scapula back and forth. What happens if we restrict the trapezius?
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE buyer beware. Please learn a little bit about saddle fitting (enough to know if you are being suckered) and do not fall into the trap of the pretty, pretty, super comfortable, trendy saddle. Just because a saddle rep selling you a saddle says it fits ... it might not. YES! I know diff saddles are designed and fit differently. But when a saddle is applying obvious pressure, that is not a good fit. PLEASE do what is best for your horse.
p.s. friend said her horse went terribly in the saddle and politely said "no".
