How to Fit Pain-Free Western Saddles

The type of Western saddle a rider uses depends upon their equestrian sport. Cutting-horse saddles come with a high, narrow horn and free-swinging fender; this enables the swift, side-to-side movements of the horse. Barrel racers ride in smaller, lighter saddles that help the rider balance during quick, 360-degree turns. The deeper seat and center-hung fenders of a reining saddle keep the rider balanced with a long, stretched leg. Finding a Western saddle that fits your riding discipline, your body and your horse allows both of you to have a safe, comfortable ride.

Things You'll Need

  • Thin sheet
  • Saddle stand or hay bale
Show More

Instructions

  1. Fitting the Rider

    • 1

      Set your Western saddle on a saddle stand or a hay bale, allowing the stirrups to fall down the sides of the saddle.

    • 2

      Sit in the saddle, fitting your bottom into the deepest part of the seat. Hang your legs down next to the fenders. Leave your feet out of the stirrups.

    • 3

      Place a flat hand between your upper thigh and the swell of the pommel at the base of the horn. A three-fingers-wide space between your body and the pommel ensures a correct fit.

    • 4

      Insert a flat hand between the cantle, the high back of the saddle, and your bottom. A full hand's width guarantees correct sizing.

    Fitting the Horse

    • 5

      Place your horse in cross ties, or tie it in a stall to keep it from moving off; ensure that your horse is standing squarely. Drape a thin sheet over the part of the back where the saddle sits.

    • 6

      Place your Western saddle gently on your horse's back. Adjust it so that the top of the pommel below the horn is on a straight line with the top of the cantle.

    • 7

      Check the saddle's skirt to determine if it sits just in front your horse's loin area. A too-long skirt can rub the loins, creating sores and not allowing your horse's hindquarters to move freely.

    • 8

      Slip your fingers vertically between the saddle's gullet and your horse's withers. A two- to two-and-a-half fingers fit indicates that the saddle is a correct size. If more fingers fit, then the saddle is too narrow for your horse's back; it may pinch the spine and withers. If only one finger fits, the saddle is too wide for your horse. It will sit on the back causing pressure and pain.

    • 9

      Run the flat of your hand under your saddle's skirt along both of your horse's sides; check from the withers all the way to the back of the saddle. Feel for any tight spots and determine even weight distribution. Any change in pressure indicates a problem with the fit.

    • 10

      Step behind your horse and see if the saddle sits level across the rump. A saddle that leans to one side causes pressure sores on your horse's back during use.