Western Saddle Fitting Guide

It is important for a horse's saddle to fit correctly to avoid restricting movement, rubbing and general discomfort. According to Today's Horse.com, most western saddle manufacturers choose to make their saddles by hand, with each manufacturer often having a unique method of measuring the saddles. To find a saddle of the correct size and shape you must take your horse's measurements. Once you have the saddle you can place it on the horse to check that it is the correct fit.

Things You'll Need

  • Flexi-curve
  • Paper
  • Pencil
  • Saddle pad
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the horse using a flexi-curve. This is a flexible wire-based measuring device, which you can purchase online or at your local DIY store or office supply store. With the horse standing square on level ground find the shoulder blade and measure two fingers behind along the curve from side to side by placing the flexi-curve across the top of the horse's back. Gently bend the flexi-curve until the wire lies flat against the horse. Place the flexi-curve on a sheet of paper and trace the inside of the bend with a pencil. Repeat this process by measuring straight down the spine where the saddle should sit.

    • 2

      Take the measurements with you when you visit a tack shop to inquire about purchasing a saddle for your horse or having one made. Be aware that using the horse's measurements alone will not ensure that the saddle will fit the horse correctly, but knowing the measurements will help you to choose a saddle that is more likely to fit.

    • 3

      Try the saddle on the horse to ensure that it is a correct fit. Ensure that the horse is standing square on flat ground. Protect the horse's back by covering with a thick saddle pad. Place the saddle onto the horse's back and position with the front of the saddle behind the shoulder blade. Check that the saddle is level on both sides by making the skirts and seat are flat and square, and fasten. Check that it does not rub against the horse's withers by sliding your fingers between the saddle and the horse, which should be easy to do. TodaysHorse.com recommends that you also check that the saddle does not rub against the horse's hip bone, which can be common in shorter bodied horses, such as the Morgan and Arab.

    • 4

      Ride the horse for at least 15 minutes to ensure that it is comfortable for both the horse and for you. While riding pay attention to the horse's body language. Signs of discomfort could include abnormal behaviors such as flattening the ears, bucking, biting or kicking. With a used saddle, check for any sweat marks after riding for an extended period of time.