Author: Jochen Schleese

It is surprising to us that there are still saddle companies and fitters out there who claim that they can fix asymmetry in a horse in a matter of minutes.

One of the most misunderstood indicators of saddle fit – good or bad – are the sweat marks left behind when the pad has been removed.

Do you invest in a saddle if you’re not sure about a horse’s future – and how can you measure a horse’s true potential without a fitted saddle?

If your generous benefactor got you a saddle for Christmas I hope they involved both you and your horse and didn’t just choose a ‘pretty saddle’.

The saddle (as interface between horse and rider) has the potential to inflict the most anatomical and physiological damage when it no longer fits.

There are solid reasons behind choosing a saddle which is specific to the discipline you are riding – both for you and the horse.

The rider actually has quite some influence on how “straight” the horse is. And even some top riders are not straight.

If you’re a heavier rider and your saddle isn’t right for you, chances are it is worse for your horse.

At dressage shows especially, it is almost painfully obvious how few boys there are riding and competing.

Stirrup bar placement and rider leg length the key, says Jochen Schleese.