First Things First
There are some things Judith will need to know before she visits your horse to fit a new saddle. When you book an appointment, make sure you tell her:
Your Horse’s Age
Young horses are likely to fill out and develop muscle, whereas older horses may lose condition and muscle tone.
Your Horse’s Breed
This gives the saddle fitter an indication of the type of saddle which may suit your horse. For example, a thoroughbred is a very different shape from a warmblood or a cob.
Your horse’s level of fitness
If your horse is competing the Saddle fitter would prefer to fit a saddle when the horse is competition fit. A saddle bought when he’s fat and unfit may not fit when he’s slim and competing.
The type of riding you plan to do in it
It is important to let Judith know whether you need a dressage, jumping or general-purpose saddle.
Your budget
Let her know if you want a leather or synthetic saddle and if you have any personal preferences for manufacturers. With this information Judith will be able to select the right type, size and make of saddles to bring for you to try.
Your details
The saddle fitter will need your height, weight and age. Tell her if you have any special features such as long legs.
What facilities will the saddle fitter need?
A flat, hard surface where the horse can be examined and run up in hand if necessary. An arena, school or area where the horse can be safely ridden, and in the winter months it is essential that this is well lit.
Please wear clean riding boots as when trying saddles any mud or grit can scratch.
The horse – presented in a well-groomed condition. Any numnah or pad which you propose wearing.