05/21/2026
Since I seem to be on a role putting my training philosophies into writing, here I go again about saddle fitting and why I choose to work with and .nelson.7355 ⬇️
My relationship with Julie and Dresch is rooted in a shared philosophy and mission to protect the horse’s anatomy so that harmonious and healthy ridden partnerships can emerge.
For my horses to comfortably carry me with true heath and longevity, my saddles must distribute my weight as evenly as possible across the largest possible weight-bearing surface. This safe weight-bearing surface is different for every horse and dependent on their unique anatomy. But it is the only surface where a horse can comfortably and safely carry our weight without damage.
Specifically, the saddle’s panel and tree must distribute my weight evenly across the longissimus muscle while protecting the spine, avoiding pressure on the thoracic trapezius (generous wither clearance), and remain on or before the 18th rib. The angle and width of the head plate must also match the angle and width of the shoulder to protect the scapula.
Anything short of this standard compromises the very system I am trying to develop.
As a rider, my work is about guiding the horse towards self-carriage, balance, suppleness, and a functional thoracic sling. This process depends entirely on the horse feeling comfortable, secure, and able to move with ease while receiving my aids with clarity. If those key structures are not protected, and my weight is not distributed in a way that allows the horse to carry me using their sling, then I am not training, I am compensating, using force, and causing short- or long-term damage. Which we already know goes against my training philosophy.
That is why I choose Saddlery Dresch and Julie: not because I am sponsored, not because their saddles are beautiful, and not even because they are comfortable for me. Although all of this I true, I choose them because I NEED my horses to be safely supported and protected in order to do my job.
Anything less is not aligned with my program, and I can’t in good conscience allow it to happen under my watch, or my seat bones.
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