How To Measure Withers for an English Saddle

Horse owners need to measure the withers of their horses before buying an English saddle, as a properly fitted saddle is an essential tool for safe and effective riding. Making a template of the withers (the bony protrusion of the spine directly behind the neck) allows owners to test potential saddles in the tack shop without the horse being there. The saddle should fit the template with plenty of room for the shoulders and withers and with the horse's spine clearing the gullet the length of the saddle.

Things You'll Need

  • Pen or marker
  • Thick piece of coated electrical wire (approximately 24 inches long) or "flex-i-curve" (found in office supply stores)
  • Cardboard or heavy paper
  • Scissors or boxcutter
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Instructions

  1. Make a template

    • 1

      Find the left shoulder blade on your horse by lifting his left front leg up and down and noticing where the bone moves underneath the withers. Mark a spot approximately two inches directly behind the shoulder blade.

    • 2

      Mold the piece of wire or "flex-i-curve" closely over the withers at the marked spot, making sure the wire folds flat at the same spot on the other side of your horse's back. You might need someone else to do the other side while you hold it in place.

    • 3

      Remove the mold and lay it down carefully on a large piece of cardboard or heavy paper.

    • 4

      Trace inside and outside the mold with a marker, then cut out the shape with a pair of scissors or boxcutter to form the template. Note on the template which side is right or left on your horse.