How to Size a Stubben Saddle

Stubben is one of the most well respected names in the world of English saddlery. English riders seek these saddles out for their workmanship, their reputation for quality and the fact that they can last for decades with the right care. But before you buy your next Stubben, you need to measure the seat size carefully and check that the saddle fits your horse properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle stand
  • Measuring tape
  • Saddle pad
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Instructions

  1. Seat Size

    • 1

      Place the Stubben saddle on a sturdy stand. It is easier to get an accurate measurement when the saddle is sitting on a stable surface.

    • 2

      Locate the small round silver disks on each side of the saddle. These silver disks are near the front of the saddle.

    • 3

      Place the measuring tape on top of the silver disk and extend it to the back of the saddle. Read the measuring tape to determine the seat size of the Stubben saddle.

    Saddle Fit

    • 4

      Place the saddle on your horse's back without a saddle pad. This makes it easier to assess the fit of the saddle and see how the gullet fits over your horse's backbone. Make sure the stirrups are up, and either remove the girth or flip it up over the top of the saddle.

    • 5

      Position the saddle so that it sits just behind your horse's withers. There should be at least an inch of clearance between the top of your horse's withers and the front of the saddle. Watch for any areas where the saddle pinches the horse's withers or shoulders. These could be signs of a poor fit.

    • 6

      Move to the back of your horse and look at the gullet and how it fits over your horse's backbone. The saddle should straddle the spine with plenty of clearance, with no pinching or tightness.

    • 7

      Remove the saddle and place a quality saddle pad where the saddle was. Place the saddle on top of the pad and tack up your horse. Tighten the girth, mount up and have a friend watch the movement of the horse and the saddle for any potential trouble spots and fitting issues.