Saddle-fit Checks

Why check your saddle fit?

Saddle-fitting is a skill and although we do recommend you talk to your saddler if you are having a problem with your saddle, or are seeing any of the symptoms associated with poor saddle fit, sometimes it is easier to see if there is a problem for yourself!

Bearing this in mind, we are able to offer the Impression Pad system as a means of showing whether your saddle is fitting snugly and comfortably to your horse’s back, or if it needs adjusting or changing.

Unfortunately horse’s backs change shape several times during their lives and so your saddle may not fit now, even if it was fitted correctly several years ago. In fact, a horse’s back can change shape quite dramatically in some cases and a saddle which fitted only 6 months before, may now be causing some discomfort.

How does the Impression Pad work?

The Impression Pad is very simple to use. The two pads which lie either side of the horse’s back contain equi-dough. We place the pads on the horse’s back, then the saddle on top of the pads and off you go for a ride for 20 minutes or so.

When you return, the saddle is removed and the pads examined for areas of pressure. Where there are pressure points the equi-dough will move away so a clear area is exposed on the pad. This indicates the areas where the saddle is pressing on your horse’s back and causing discomfort.

This is a very popular method of checking saddle-fit in the States and enables you to assess more accurately the effect of your saddle. It can also rule out the saddle as a cause of pain if your horse is showing symptoms and you are struggling to find the cause!

This service is completely unbiased as we do not fit or sell saddles ourselves. If you find your saddle is not fitting correctly you can return to your saddler with the findings of the Impression Pad to make the necessary changes.

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               PLEASE E-MAIL US OR CALL NIKKI ON 07890 968115