PLN
Photos by: Angelika Grabowska - Agphotoequine.
In the photo: Prestige Italia saddlefitter Katarzyna Czaprańska and Adam Nicpoń, Polish Indoor Show Jumping Champion 2024.
To enjoy maximum comfort in a saddle, we first need to ensure it fits perfectly. In today's article, we'll discuss what to pay attention to when fitting a saddle and share valuable advice on caring for your horse and its riding equipment.
How to properly fit a saddle?
The best option is to schedule an appointment with a saddle fitter – someone who professionally fits saddles . During this service, the specialist will select the right saddle for both horse and rider. They will pay attention to the most important aspects, including:
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1. Understanding the needs of the horse and rider
The first step in choosing the right saddle is understanding the individual needs of both horse and rider. It's important to consider:
- The build of the horse (e.g. height of the withers, width of the back, musculature).
- Type of equestrian discipline practiced (jumping, dressage, endurance, etc.).
- Rider's skill level, size, and comfort and support preferences.
2. Fitting and testing
During a saddle fitting service at Equishop, our specialist will provide you with several saddle models for initial testing. After selecting a specific model, the horse's measurements will be taken and the rider's measurements taken into account. At this stage, we can assess how the saddle fits the horse's back and how the rider feels in it. In summary:
- The fitting specialist proposes saddle models for testing.
- The saddle fitter then performs a static and dynamic assessment of the saddle model selected by the rider.
- The final saddle model is selected based on the rider's feelings and the opinion of the saddle fitter.
- The saddle fitter then proceeds to take the horse's measurements (Point No. 3)
Order a separate saddle testing service - contact us at 514 766 505 .
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3. Dimensions and shape of the saddle
When fitting a saddle, it's important to accurately measure your horse. A professional fitting includes:
- The horse's dimensions are measured and the rider's weight and height are taken into account.
- Measuring the gullet width: The gullet width must be adjusted to the height and size of the withers, so that the horse can move its shoulders freely and without discomfort. A saddle that is too wide will rest on the withers, while one that is too narrow will press against them. At Equishop, we also offer a separate gullet width adjustment service for Prestige Italia & Renaissance saddles.
- Seat size: It must be adapted to the length of the horse's back, but also to the size of the rider.
- The Right Style: Sometimes, the saddle style chosen by a rider doesn't quite fit the horse's anatomy. Therefore, it's always worth scheduling an appointment with a saddle fitter who can select the right saddle for the horse and rider's needs.
- The final saddle model is ordered from the warehouse or from the manufacturer (depending on availability)
Make an appointment for a saddle fitting with our specialist – call 514 766 505 or contact us by email at siodla@equishop.com
*Depending on the saddle fitter, the saddle fitting process may vary.
4. Regular inspection and maintenance
Even the best-fitting saddle requires regular inspection and maintenance. We recommend regular saddle inspections to ensure they remain properly fitted. Our salon offers saddle care services – for more details, click here !
Summary:
Choosing the right saddle requires attention and precision. At our Equishop salon, thanks to our professional saddle fitting service for Prestige Italia and Renaissance saddles, we can provide our customers with the highest quality and comfort.
Looking for a high-quality used saddle? Be sure to check out our selection! Click here !
Horse Shop: +48 784 039 784
Saddle Department: +48 514 766 505
Email: kontakt@equishop.com
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