Your First Pony - Saddle Fitting with Catherine Shelley

This article is from the December 2020 Horse Deals magazine.

When you're new to horses you may think; "I just need a saddle and a bridle and I'm good to go!" Novices soon get a shock when they realise there are a range of bridle sizes and types, and even more of a selection when it comes to saddles. Having gear that fits your pony correctly has a range of benefits and the best way to get a well-fitting saddle is to book in with a saddle fitter.

Why is saddle fit important for your pony?

A correctly fitted saddle is very important because it ensures that your pony has maximum comfort and allows him freedom of movement, particularly in his shoulder area. A correctly fitted saddle ensures that there are no pressure points occurring, which will decrease the likelihood of your pony getting a sore back and naughty behavioural habits developing. Imagine going for a run in shoes that do not fit you correctly, you would be very sore and uncomfortable.

If your pony is comfortable and happy with the gear you use, you’ll have a more enjoyable riding experience.

Why is saddle fit important for you, the rider?

Your comfort is important too. When selecting a saddle, your body shape and size should be taken into consideration. Saddles come in various seat sizes, measured in inches, and different cuts/shapes to suit the rider’s leg length and build. You don’t want to be lost in a saddle that’s too big or be cramped and uncomfortable in a saddle that’s too small!

A saddle that has been fitted to your pony will also assist with your correct riding position and balance. If a saddle is not centred and balanced correctly they can tip riders forward or backwards, which means you are always fighting against the natural laws of gravity to stay centred.

How do I know what type of saddle I'll need?

You will need a saddle that will suit your type of riding and stage of learning. Many children on ponies start in a pony pad, before moving into a proper saddle.

Some saddle types include general purpose (GP), dressage, jumping, western, stock, fender, and so on. There are many specialised saddles on the market, but for someone still finding their feet and learning to ride, a versatile saddle that is comfortable is best.

What happens at a saddle fitting?

A saddle fitter may travel to you and there are quite a few companies that do this as they have a van loaded with many different types of saddles on hand. Or you might have to take your pony to them, these days you do have choices.

The saddle fitter will assess your pony’s back and measure it for the size of the gullet needed for your pony and the size of the seat that will work for you as well as your pony.

They will look at how your saddle sits on your pony’s back without a saddle-blanket, ungirthed and then girthed up. They do this so that they have a clear view of the saddle against your pony’s back and shoulders.

To check how the saddle fits you, the rider, they may ask you to get on board and some may have you ride around. Make sure that you are wearing proper riding clothes, for both safety and so that the saddle fitter has a clear vision of your leg and seat area. Your saddle should sit level on your pony’s back in walk, trot and canter and if you are looking at a jumping saddle, test ride it over a couple of jumps.

The saddle fitter will be able to tell you the best course of action. They will either adjust your current saddle for ultimate fit, or they will point you in the right direction of a suitable saddle for you and your pony.

What is a saddle gullet?

The gullet is the channel that goes down the underside of the saddle for clearance of the pony’s spine.

What is flock?

Flock is the material, traditionally wool, used to stuff the panels of the saddle. More recently foam and air panels have become more popular with saddle manufacturers.
The process of restuffing the saddle’s panels is called ‘reflocking’.

Until next month, happy horsing around!

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