How to Measure for a Saddle Seat

If you are an experienced horseback rider you already know how important saddle fit is - both for yourself and for your horse. Having the right size saddle underneath you will make you feel more secure and help you become a better rider. That is why it is so important for riders of all disciplines to learn how to measure a saddle seat the right way.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle
  • Saddle rack
  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

  1. Measuring a Western Saddle

    • 1

      Place your Western saddle securely on the saddle rack. Placing the saddle on a sturdy rack before you get started will make it easier to get an accurate measurement.

    • 2

      Locate the swell of the saddle. The swell is located in the front of the saddle where the horn is located. Place your measuring tape securely at the back of the swell and extend it back and up to the end of the saddle seat. A flexible measuring tape like the kind tailors use works best, but you can use a traditional tape measure, too.

    • 3

      Visit your local tack shop or saddle shop and sit in several of the display saddles. Take note of how the saddle fits your body, looking for a saddle that is neither too big nor too small. Riding in a too big saddle will make it harder to get the security you need, while a saddle that is too small will be uncomfortable. When you find the saddle that fits your body shape the best look at the tag and note the seat size. Most Western saddles will have seat sizes between 13 inches and 17 inches, but smaller or larger sizes are available as well.

    Measuring an English Saddle

    • 4

      Take your English saddle and place it securely on the saddle rack. Using a saddle rack will make it easier to get an accurate reading. Look for the silver rivets that are located right behind the front of the saddle.

    • 5

      Place your tape measure at the silver rivet and extend it up and back to the end of the saddle seat. Take note of the reading - this is the size of the saddle seat. Be sure to measure at least twice to make sure the reading is accurate. The seat size should be a whole number, probably between 15 inches and 18 inches unless you are measuring a child's saddle or a custom-made saddle.

    • 6

      Go to the local saddle store or tack shop and try out several of the display models. Sit on the saddle as you would if you were riding - looking for a saddle that is neither too small or too large. Once you have found the proper saddle size, look at the tag on the saddle and take note of the seat size. Use that seat size as you continue to shop for the perfect English saddle.