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TC
Gold Member
 Scotland
621 Posts |
 Posted - 08 Oct 2008 : 7:51:23 PM
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I am refering to an analogy my wonderful saddler came up with today to explain a badly fitting saddle....Well....to my shame and horror I have been forcing Bo to wear 5inch stilletos when he should have been wearing comfy trainers.I am now going to ride bareback till my new saddle is ready in 6 weeks time.It will be the first piece of couture that I have ever owned and worth every penny of over a grand(dont tell OH)A made to measure saddle and of course when it comes we shall be perfect in every way(LOL)But seriously I am mortified that his saddle was not fitting him properly.I assumed that because he was sold to me (in May)with it ,it fitted him.I feel so sorry for him and any pain Ive caused him>>>GET YOUR SADDLES FITTED BY A PROFESSIONAL is all I can say and to BO .....Im so sorry......Ther said it....feel better now.
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rosyw
Platinum Member
England
3756 Posts |
Posted - 08 Oct 2008 : 9:07:49 PM
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You should not feel shame and horror! one of the things that so few of us are ever taught is how to fit a saddle so for any of you that are interested here's a rough guide!
Do these checks firstly without and then with a rider on board.
Firstly check the clearance under the pommel, should be 3 to 4 fingers, then look through the gullet, front to back, to make sure there is daylight all the way through. Place your hand at the front of the saddle, starting at the pommel run your hand downwards between your horses shoulder and the saddle, you shouldn't feel any sudden stops or pressure, your hand should move freely. Check that the panels sit evenly along the horses back, and do not pinch the spine, there should be no gaps where it doesn't touch. Also check it the saddle sits evenly - doesn't appear to tip up in either direction, or slip from side to side as the horse moves,
As I said, this is a "rough guide" only, but should be helpful - I hope |
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trinity
Gold Member
Scotland
1126 Posts |
Posted - 09 Oct 2008 : 06:35:42 AM
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| We also get our saddles checked every six months to make sure they are still fitting correct. A good saddle fitter is like a good farrier - worth their weight in gold. |
Beck |
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Crusaders Angel
Gold Member
England
531 Posts |
Posted - 09 Oct 2008 : 09:24:45 AM
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I did a Powerpoint presentation on the saddle, how it affects the horse and the rider for my local Riding Club a few years ago. If anyone wants a copy (probably needs updating as some new research has come out) I will send them it as an attachment. PM me with your e-mail address. It is a big file though, loads of pictures.
Lucy |
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