Which saddle?

There is a big difference between a saddler (at least 3 years training, able to construct and fit a saddle, all repairs etc) and a saddle fitter (usually 3 or 4 days training and a bit online), many brands train their own fitters who have a tendency to be a little biased. Experience plays a big part too and after 30 years in this game, I am a fully qualified saddler completely independent of saddle brands although I do have my favourites!

What a minefield - beset with pushy sellers and dodgy kit! I just want to give you a few pointers to help your level of discernment. All of these are drawn from my experience of would be saddle purchasers.

First, have you got a horse? If not return to drawing board and purchase same. Horse before saddle please (as in shoe size before shoes). Just a few words here, horse sellers are worse than saddle sellers but all I can say is be a bit realistic and get one that is actually the right size and IQ for you, the right level of education helps too.

Next consider what size saddle might suit the pair of you (more difficult than shoes as you are two different sizes). Take a long hard look at your bum. Saddles do not come with shoe horns (fact - more than half of riders today ride in a saddle which is too small) and I normally recommend your hands width behind you once you are sitting in the deepest part. Without this you are more likely to land behind the saddle in those awkward moments. If you are sitting on the back of the saddle your weight will not be properly distributed. Too much more space than this and you will be rattling about. If you are very optimistic about your build have a secret look at the size label in your jods. Seat size is not about pride it's about security and comfort.

Saddle seat sizes are measured in inches from the stud at the front in a straight line to the centre of the cantle but do not correspond very well to the length of the bearing surface underneath. Saddles need to fit on your horses rib cage without hanging over the back, please beware the Holistic Aromatherapist who will tell you that your horse can only carry a 15in saddle. It is more constructive to look for a saddle with a shorter, wider panel relative to seat size if your horse is short in the ribs. Even distribution of weight is key.

Now you can go outside and look lovingly at your steed. Do you see a table top or a fence rail? Most horses are somewhere in between which is where it pays to try a variety of saddles of different makes and widths. Once you start to try suitable saddles you will need an experienced hand to help you decide what's best and even if you know what you are doing, a man (or woman) on the ground gets a different view. Key points are to be off the withers, sitting level with a good large area of even contact on the horses back obviously accommodating both leg length and bottom size, without restricting the horses shoulder or extending too far back. I am always puzzled by the fashion for D to D measurement - every saddler is free to put the d's wherever they like, so not a very consistent guide!

Flocked panel or Cair or Flair or Foam? Flock every time for me, air is a fab idea but never seems to live up to expectations and as saddles age it often needs changing to flock due to punctured or cracked plastic pouches. Some riders claim the part gel version feels a bit like a bouncy castle but you'd need to try that for yourself. Foam is a great idea but whatever it says on the label they always compact and need to be re-panelled, ideally by the original manufacturer to be properly balanced. A foam panel will need major work at least two to three times during the life of the saddle. Flock is easily adjustable, breathable and even total replacement is not a really major job.

Once you have found your dream saddle you are nearly there - just ask yourself a few questions if you are buying privately

Is it nicked?

Is the tree sound and straight?

Is it too long for your horse? Is the ham too big for the plate?

Can you get it on trial ?

Yes? Good luck and don't forget to keep it locked up.

Need a hand? Give us a call. Where possible I prefer to see a saddle on it's horse before I sell it, but can offer you lots to try in every size. We are also able to adjust the flocking and for most saddles have the machinery to make fine tree alterations for optimum fit. I do everything I can to keep call out costs to a minimum and if you are within 30 miles and spend €200 + it is included in your purchase. Otherwise ask for a quote to cover my petrol or get together and split it with a friend.

Saddler through the ages.....