Saddle Fit
Saddle Fit
WHY SADDLE FIT IS SO IMPORTANT.
A proper fitting saddle for horses can be compared to proper fitting clothes for humans. It would be crazy to ask an athlete to compete in jeans, work boots and straight jacket. Its just as crazy and selfish to ask a horse to preform in an ill fitted saddle.
The problem of saddle fitting is one that has perplexed equestrians since the introduction of the rigid frame saddle in the 4th century B.C.. Since man first rode astride a horse, we have been inventing and refining saddles to make them more efficient and more comfortable for the rider.
Horses illustrate saddle fit problems in subtle and progressive ways; flinching or laying back their ears while being groomed along the back, reluctance to pick up hind feet for shoeing, refusing to stand while the saddle is placed on his back or while being mounted, inability to bend, wringing and carrying their tails off to one side. The horse will exhibit shortened gaits that become choppy and disjointed and higher than normal head carriage. Tell-tale sweat marks and white hairs arrive long after the irritation begins. Changes to the horse's whole attitude can progress to refusals , bucking and unruliness as they become more intolerant to the pain. Too often it can reach a level where a sore-backed horse is incapable of performing or is dangerous to ride.
Horses are creatures of habit. We have all seen a horse that spooks every time he gets to "that" corner of the arena. A long time ago something in "that" corner frightened the horse. Now every time he comes around "that"corner, he anticipates what is going to happen. Well... the same thing can apply to saddle fit. Some horses will anticipate the pain of a poorly fitting saddle long before it arrives. Subsequently, a better fitting saddle may have to be used a number of times before any positive reaction is evident. (text taken from Port Lewis website - http://www.rocler.qc.ca/portlewis/)
Expert Saddle Fit
I offer saddle fitting for all breeds and disciplines.
You will need your favorite saddle and your favorite horse and about 30 minutes. You will need to mount and ride your horse for 20 minutes for precise results. Upon completion, immediate results of saddle fit will be apparent and documented. You will know if your saddle is right for your horse and if you need to "fit" it better using shims or the appropraite pad. Shims and correction inserts available.
Pricing
Saddle fit, evaluation and photographs $30.00 Approx. 30 min.
* Fit correction inserts available.
** A custom pad can be made for your horse and saddle for a perfect and comfortable fit. This is a specific custom service. Price on request.