Expert Saddle Buying Advice
SADDLE TEST
In modern equestrian sports, the evolution of equipment and new biomechanical discoveries have revolutionized the way we choose saddles. The traditional “try it on the stand” or “take it home” approach is no longer sufficient to ensure the well-being of both horse and rider.
The most reliable approach is to work with a certified professional who can perform an in-depth analysis and guide you to the perfect saddle for your specific needs.
The importance of a Saddle Test
The saddle is a crucial tool that must allow the rider to maintain correct posture with minimal effort, freeing the body to interact optimally with the horse. At the same time, it must perfectly adapt to the horse’s conformation, allowing it to move freely and express its full potential.
Saddle Testing Phases
Choosing the perfect saddle is a fundamental step for the horse’s well-being and rider’s performance. For this reason, our saddle fitting process is designed to be accurate, professional, and completely personalized.
1.
Horse & Rider preliminary evaluation
The initial phase of our process focuses on an in-depth biomechanical analysis of the horse and rider pair. Through direct consultation, we identify the critical issues that motivate saddle replacement, which may concern the fitting on the horse, rider position, or simply saddle integrity.
For a complete preliminary assessment, we require a video of the pair working in different gaits, footage of the horse moving freely, and several photographs. Careful analysis of this material allows us to make a targeted pre-selection of 3-5 saddle models, optimizing the subsequent dynamic test at the stable.
2.
Static and Dynamic Trial
Once at your stable, we will move to the practical phase.
Static Trial: we will place the selected saddles directly horse to understand which ones best adapt to its morphology. Usually, at this point, the choice narrows down to 2-3 models.
Dynamic Testing: You will be able to try the saddles to feel which one offers the best comfort and sensations. Meanwhile, we will observe the horse’s movements and how you distribute pressure in the saddle
3.
Model Customization
Once the ideal model is chosen, we will move on to the customization phase. We will use position correctors and adjust the blocks to find the perfect balance. Together with you and, if you wish, your trainer, we will define every detail: from seat and flap size to the type of panel, to the materials best suited to your needs and those of your horse.
4.
Delivery and Final Trial
When the saddle is ready and has passed all our quality controls, we will bring it to the stable for the delivery test. At this stage, we can make any minor adjustments to ensure the saddle is truly perfect.
5.
Saddle Check (After 6-8 weeks)
After approximately 6-8 weeks of use, we recommend an additional check. This is a crucial step because, with training, the horse’s musculature changes and the saddle panels adapt. This check allows us to ensure that the saddle continues to fit the horse optimally and provides you with maximum comfort.
A precise saddle fitting is the best investment you can make in your horse's long-term health and your ability to perform at your best.
Interested in finding the perfect fit? Contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation.
