Be saddle smart

Buying a saddle is a major investment, but many riders get it wrong. Stephanie Bateman reveals the most common mistakes – and how to avoid wasting time, money and compromising your horse's comfort

- Stephanie Bateman

The right saddle can transform your horse's way of going and your effectiveness in the saddle - while the wrong one can lead to discomfort, poor performance and costly setbacks. From fit and function to expert advice and second-hand risks, understanding what to look for is essential.

When it comes to fitting, independent master saddle fitter Sammy Leahy stresses the importance of staying open-minded.

"Don't get fixated on a brand or model just because it worked for someone else," she says. "Two horses in the same yard can have totally different needs."

Sammy, a Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddle fitter (QSF) registered on the Equine Fitters Directory, often sees the pitfalls of going it alone.

"People buy multiple second-hand saddles hoping to save money, but if none of them fit, it adds up quickly," she explains. "Second-hand can be a great option - but only if it's checked for fit, flocking and defects by a QSF."

One of the most common problems she encounters is poor tree shape and sizing.

"If the head of the saddle where the removable headplate goes is too wide or too narrow, it causes real problems," she says. "Saddles can also 'bridge' - making contact at the front and back but not the middle - or pinch under the rider if the tree is the wrong shape."

More seriously, she adds: "We do occasionally find horses being ridden in saddles with broken, cracked or twisted trees. That's a huge risk when buying second-hand without a proper check.”

Flocking is another critical factor.

“If the flocking feels hard or ‘dead’, it’s time for a reflock,” says Sammy. “That can give a second-hand saddle a new lease of life and help it settle in comfortably.”

She also warns against over-padding, and emphasises the importance of making the right choice when it comes to girths.