In order to qualify as a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter, one must complete a one-day introduction to saddle fitting course, a three-day course on mastering the process of saddle fitting, gain a minimum of 18 months experience in saddle fitting under the supervision of a mentor, and pass a final exam. It is important to verify the qualifications of your saddle fitter, as the term "saddler" is not a protected title like "vet," "physio," or "farrier." Always Look for the SMS badge to ensure quality.

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The fit of your saddle and bridle play a critical role in the overall health and wellbeing for your horse – and for you. Horses change constantly, whether gaining or losing excess weight, developing healthy or compensatory muscling, or altering how they move due to lameness, or, preferably, due to correct management and training. Even the rider changes, if not physically, then in ability or desire to try different ridden sports. All these changes may be reflected in the fit of your saddle. Poor fit can lead to discomfort for your horse and unwanted behaviours such as bucking, napping and moving off when the rider tries to mount. The rider in a saddle that does not fit them may find they experience back or joint pains. Importantly, both horse and human may find that they cannot do what is being asked of them, and lose confidence.

A brand new saddle will need to be re-assessed approximately 3 months after purchase, possibly sooner if the rider is riding regularly. This allows the fitter to see how the flock / panel has settled, if there needs any topping up of flock or any adjustments. 

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After this it is best practise  to get your saddle checked every 4- 6 months, however if you horses behaviour or comfort seems to have changed then better to get your saddle seen sooner rather than later. 

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If you purchase a new horse & they come with tack, it is good to get the saddle checked to ensure that it is suitable for both the horse and you as the new rider. 

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Over time, the wool flocking in your saddle's panel may become so compacted that it cannot be restored. This can be compared to wearing out the soles of your shoes, resulting in discomfort and pain from feeling every bump and lump. Removing the panel from the seat allows a professional to inspect the saddle's interior and ensure its health for both you and your horse.

Above is an image of Hattie on her horse Rory, a year before she went in to saddlery, she believed that because the saddle was the right width & length with the knowledge learnt from pony Club and her level 3 BHS training that it fitted. 

However can you see that from shoulder, hip, ankle of Hattie's position and Rory's ears, that this saddle definitely did not fit. 

The tree of this saddle was not the right shape for Rory, resulting in Hattie being out of balance, Rory actually went lame after this lesson because of the fit of his saddle.

The cost of an appointment is currently £60 plus travel,  The assessment will last approximately 90 minutes but please allow up to 2 hours

 Both horse & rider must be present, clean and ready to ride, you will be asked to lead up your horse in walk & trot, then ride in walk, trot & canter possibly a jump. 

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Travel is priced at 50p per mile.

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Payment in full is required to book the appointment, cancelation of the appointment prior to 48 hours will be subject to a £25 cancellation admin  fee. Cancellation of the appointment within 48 hours of the appointment is charged at full price.

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Follow up appointments will be charged at £50 + travel. If a saddle has not been checked in over 12 months then an initial assessment will be carried out. 

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