When Should you have your saddle checked?

When to book saddle checks

The advice from the Society of Master Saddlers is to have your saddle checked for fit every 3 to 6 months. However if you notice any changes in your horse then it might be best to book them in for another check

If you are unsure about what to look out for see our top tips below;

1. Has your horse had any noticeable weight gain or loss? If you have been using the winter cold to get some of the weight off of them or your horse struggles to keep weight on during the winter, it is a good idea to have their saddle checked to ensure they are still comfortable. Equally, this is something to keep an eye on during the spring and summer as the grass starts to come through and some horses have an increase in their time in the field.
2. Has your horse had a change in their training routine and gained or lost muscle tone? Has it had time off due to injury? If your horse has had some time off or downtime over the winter it might be an idea to have their saddle looked at before bringing them back into work and then again when they have been in work for a few weeks.
3. Is your horse getting on a bit? Older horses can struggle through the winter with keeping their condition. If they are still in work then it would be a good idea to have their saddle checked for any changes to keep them comfortable.
4. Do you have a youngster? Young horses often have growth spurts throughout the year and are prone to changing shape rapidly as their workload increases. If you have a one that is looking a little bum high again it could be worth having their saddle looked at.

When tacking up and riding your horse be on the lookout for

1. When tacking up your horse it is a good idea to regularly feel the front of the saddle to check for any change in the contact and to look at the clearance on the withers for any change in this also check this once mounted.
2. Keep an eye on any movement of the saddle if it starts to go to one side or forward or back this could be a sign your saddle needs checking.
3. Any change in your balance as the rider if you are finding that the saddle is putting more forward or back in your position

If you are reading this thinking you should book in for your saddle check, the online booking form can be found here on our website. When booking appointments, please keep in mind that most saddle fitters tend to be booked up least 6 weeks in advance.