How Do I Know What Western Saddle Size Fits Me?

Western saddles can be quite costly, so before you buy one you need to make sure it fits both your body and your horse's body. If the saddle does not fit your horse properly, he may develop back problems and become cranky and unwilling to be ridden. If the saddle does not fit your body properly, you will not have the security you need when riding. Taking your time and choosing the proper seat size can enhance both your safety and your comfort.

Things You'll Need

Measuring tape

Instructions

- 1
  Weigh yourself and take a waist measurement. Use your weight and waist circumference, along with a basic saddle fitting guide, to estimate the saddle seat size you may need. Use this saddle fitting guide as a starting point only, since the proper seat size can be influenced by your body shape and physiology.
- 2
  Borrow a friend's saddle if you can, to get an idea of what size Western saddle you might need. You can sit in the saddle while mounted on your horse or your friend's horse. You can also simply sit in the saddle while it is sitting on a stand. If you use a stand, try to find one high enough so that your legs hang down at a natural angle.
- 3
  Wiggle around in the saddle seat. Have a friend hold your horse if you do this while mounted. The saddle should feel neither too loose nor too confining. If you slide around easily on the saddle, the seat is too large. If your legs feel like they are cramped up against the front swells of the saddle, the seat is too small.
- 4
  Measure the saddle you are trying out by extending a measuring tape from just behind the saddle horn to the back of the saddle. Use that measurement as your guide. If the seat size is 15 inches and the saddle feels too small, you should try out a 16-inch saddle.
- 5
  Visit a local tack shop and try out several different seat sizes until you find the one that fits you best. Use this measurement as your guide as you shop for the perfect Western saddle.