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Saddle Fitting |
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Helen is a Society of Master Saddlers Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter. For more information on the qualification, please visit the Socitey of Master Saddlers website. Having your saddle fitted is important for both you and your horse, whether you are dreaming of competing at Badminton Horse Trials, Hickstead, HOYS or just wanting to enjoy your horse at home and out hacking. The saddle must fit your horse to allow freedom of movement, comfort and to let the horse furfil it's potential. It is just as important for the saddle to fit the rider. If the saddle is too large/small for the rider, then they will not be comfortable, effective or secure in the saddle. A saddle that is too narrow for the horse will sit high above the withers and put pressure under the points of the tree; this is uncomfortable for both the horse and rider. The rider will find that their pelvis is tipped making them lean backwards and shoot their legs forwards. A saddle that is too wide, may sit low on the withers, putting pressure on this sensitive area. The rider will feel insecure in their seat and unable to maintain an upright position. |
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The style of the saddle needs to suit the discipline that the
horse is used for. There are a wide range of makes and styles on the market, each designed for a particular type of horse, rider or discipline.
The General Purpose saddle is the most commonly used, this is designed for riders wishing to participate in a number of disciplines.
It is designed to allow a long leg for dressage/showing and a shorter leg for jumping activities. |
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Jumping Saddles are
designed with a forward cut flap and panel, to allow the rider to shorten their stirrups for jumping. Which
gives the rider better balance and security while jumping. |
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A Dressage Saddle
is designed with long straight flaps, for a much longer leg position. This allows the rider to sit tall and give percise
aids to the horse. |
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Many manufacturers are now making saddles designed especially for
horses with high withers or round cob types. These have features to allow a better fit which is more comfortable
for both horse and rider. |
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Working Hunter and Show Saddles are straight cut to
show off the horse/pony's shoulder in the show ring. They are usually designed with narrow back gussets and a slim panel to
fit closely onto the horse's back. |
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HR Saddlery stock Bates,
Black Country, Ideal, Thorowgood, Kent & Masters,
Wintec and Walsall Riding Saddles (Exselle) from new, as
well as a range of second hand saddles. All second hand saddles are checked for soundness and safety before being sold, with
any necessary repairs being carried out first. Saddles can be sold on commission basis, so please contact Helen if you wish to discuss
this service. Saddle Fittings can be carried out either at your home/yard or at an indoor school (5 mins from HR Saddlery). Saddle Fitting times
are arranged at a mutually convenient time. If you would like to discuss or book please either phone Helen on 07782 310649 or email
info@hrsaddlery.com
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