In recent history the horses anatomy has changed dramatically due to the radical cross breeding programs within the industry. These radical changes have been made in the quest of producing a sport horse with the enhanced power, stamina and elegance, which is demanded in the modern disciplines. As a consequence of these changes, the traditional saddle which was evolved to fit the traditional conformation of the horse no longer satisfies the needs for the modern breeding programme of sport horses.

The evolution of the new horse conformation, combined with the more professional levels of the disciplines, so with this evolution not only do we have the traditional considerations of the maturity of the horse and the levels of the discipline that the horse is working at, but a whole new world of extra needs from novice to professional. There are new parameters that need to be considered.

The relationship between the horse and the rider must today be seen in the terms of a partnership. If the rider expects and demands the cooperation from the horse then the rider must take due care to ensure that the horse is able to cope with the demands placed upon it.

In order to do this, the horse must be comfortable, the horse must have the riders weight stabilised on its back and yet the horse must retain the freedom of movement to perform the appropriate paces. We must recognise that the rider must have control in order to communicate to the horse effectively.

The rider must again be comfortable, must feel stabilised and secure, yet the rider must retain naturally the freedom and posture which allows the most effective application of the aids.

Fundamental comfort to both parties must not be regarded as a luxury but as a necessity, as without the distraction of discomfort the concentration will be greatly improved, as discomfort to either party will have a detrimental effect on performance.

The saddle to a horse can be related to a shoe on a person. No matter how stylish and expensive, if the shoe doesn't have comfort it will impair the owner's performance. For example: an Olympic athlete will have a trainer to monitor performance, a nutritionalist to monitor diet, a doctor to monitor health and a physiotherapist to monitor the bodies muscle structure, with this in mind if you put the athlete on the track with a badly fitting pair of shoes that make the feet sore all the efforts of the people helping the athlete are in vein. This is exactly the situation you will have when the saddle is not fitted correctly.

Where should a saddle fit?

Today it is recognised that ever horse rider and owner has an obligation to consider the suitability of saddle for welfare to the horse. Without even accepting the knowledge of the saddle fitter, a few simple rules practised regularly will bring dividends with regards to the performance of your horse. All physical aspects of the horse, such as the size of the wither, and the length of rib cage must be considered, along with how these elements are likely to change as the horse develops throughout life and through seasonal work.

In addition to the horse consideration of comfort from design of the saddle and the chosen materials further observations in relation of freedom of movement, muscular development, and confidence.

1. There must be no restriction of the shoulder blade. Through the action of the horse the shoulder blade rotates from standing position therefore a allowance between the rear of the shoulder blade and that the forward rigid part of the saddle we look to see a clearance distances of approximately 5 cms.
2. Loins. To the rear of the saddle the pressure must be limited to the point forward of the last rib. Any pressure beyond this point i.e. on the loins cannot be rigidly supported by the ribs of the horse and therefore is likely to result in a hollowing of back, raising of the head, and the shortening of paces.
   
3. Pressure on Withers. Suitable clearance must always be maintained between the arch of saddle and withers both vertically and laterally. Any contact at this point i.e. on the loins, can not be rigidly supported by the ribs of the shores and therefore is likely to result in severe bruising, pain, discomfort and is likely to result in the major resistance by your horse when given commands.
4. The spine. As in (3) any contact between the underside of the saddle onto the spine in terms of downwards press will show the same symptoms and result in the same resistance.
5. Pinching. Lateral pressure pinching through the panels will not only cause muscle reaction but will influence the blood flow in the capillary veins near the skin surface. This pressure will initially cause similar reactions to that of "pins and needles" and may cause further resistance from the horse.

There is a second factor that needs to be taken into consideration, that of friction. If due consideration is not given to the profile of the saddle tree and the panels then the saddle is likely to tip, rock and roll laterally and may distract to the rider and cause instability, but more seriously will cause serious damage to the horse.

Riders may not have the experience to solve these problems, but to recognise the symptoms is vital.

Just as with the vet or blacksmith appreciating when to call the professional - in this case the saddle fitter is the first step to improving performance.

If you feel that any of the above points are NOT correct with your saddle fitting, you must seek advice from a reputable qualified saddle fitter immediately!