On-Site Saddle Fitting Evaluation
Thank you for your interest in my saddle fitting services. My approach has always been educational first — I teach you what you can do to ensure saddle fit for your horse. With so many different body types and fitness levels, it would be impossible to carry a saddle for everyone.
I am an Independent Saddle Fitter — not a sales representative — though I can assist if you wish to order a custom saddle and work with top saddlers in the UK. The cost of your on-site fitting can be deducted from the purchase price of a new saddle when applicable.
I can also assist in your used saddle search by analyzing potential candidates for you. This service is separate from the initial fitting scope.
On-Site Saddle Fit Evaluation Overview
Cost: $150 for the initial evaluation (approximately 1.5 hours)
Additional time (same day) is billed at $75/hour.
Remote follow-up via email is billed at $30/hour and is typically used for saddle search assistance.
Questions are always welcome, and an initial consultation by email, phone, or Teams meeting is free.
Group Rate: The $150 fee is structured to balance travel and fitting time. A group of three or more horses is typically ideal. If a group is not possible, a travel fee may be applied based on time and mileage.
Preparation for Your Appointment
Timeframe: Sessions typically take 1.5 hours. Additional time is available if needed but may incur added charges for extended discussions, extra saddles, or detailed evaluations.
Client Initial Consult Form:
Please complete the form in advance to guide the session and determine whether an on-site fitting will be productive — especially if your current saddle is significantly mismatched.
Tracings for New or Used Saddles:
If you anticipate searching for a new or used saddle and want my support, consider preparing tracings in advance. Different saddlers and tack shops may require specific measurements. Contact me with questions prior to your appointment.
The Saddle Fitting Process1. Rider and Horse Evaluation (Mounted)• Please begin riding before my arrival when possible, so I can assess you and your horse in motion while muscles are warmed.
• I observe rider asymmetries or imbalances that may influence saddle adjustments.
2. Horse Evaluation (Unmounted)• The saddle is assessed on the horse before ungirthing.
• The horse is then untacked for a detailed evaluation.
• A well-lit, level area is ideal, with your horse prepared to stand square.
3. Markups and Assessment• Key saddle landmarks are marked (scapula, last rib, channel width, etc.). Photos may be taken for documentation and teaching.
• Musculature, symmetry, signs of discomfort, or atrophy are examined via palpation.
• Shoulder attributes, girth line positioning, muscle health, and back length are assessed.
4. Measurements and Tracings• Full tracings and photos are taken for historical records.
5. Saddle Evaluation (Off the Horse)• The integrity of the tree is evaluated (not broken or twisted).
• Tree and panel shape and condition are analyzed.
• Billet/girth configuration (English) or rigging (Western) is assessed for suitability.
• Pads, girths, and accessories are evaluated.
• Pros, cons, and overall suitability of your saddle (or trial saddles) are discussed.
6. Discussion and Plan• We review findings and formulate a clear next-step plan.
Important NotesSaddle fitting is a process that requires commitment. It may take more than one visit to achieve your goals. Be prepared to learn and apply the information discussed to prevent future issues.
If your horse is not currently in a condition where a long-term saddle solution is appropriate, I may recommend groundwork, in-hand exercises, or collaboration with trusted physiotherapists, osteopaths, trainers, or farriers.
Horse development often requires saddle adjustments or changes over time. If you understand and accept that growth and conditioning influence saddle fit, I can guide you through each stage.
I am an Independent Saddle Fitter — not a sales representative — though I can assist if you wish to order a custom saddle and work with top saddlers in the UK. The cost of your on-site fitting can be deducted from the purchase price of a new saddle when applicable.
I can also assist in your used saddle search by analyzing potential candidates for you. This service is separate from the initial fitting scope.
On-Site Saddle Fit Evaluation Overview
Cost: $150 for the initial evaluation (approximately 1.5 hours)
Additional time (same day) is billed at $75/hour.
Remote follow-up via email is billed at $30/hour and is typically used for saddle search assistance.
Questions are always welcome, and an initial consultation by email, phone, or Teams meeting is free.
Group Rate: The $150 fee is structured to balance travel and fitting time. A group of three or more horses is typically ideal. If a group is not possible, a travel fee may be applied based on time and mileage.
Preparation for Your Appointment
Timeframe: Sessions typically take 1.5 hours. Additional time is available if needed but may incur added charges for extended discussions, extra saddles, or detailed evaluations.
Client Initial Consult Form:
Please complete the form in advance to guide the session and determine whether an on-site fitting will be productive — especially if your current saddle is significantly mismatched.
Tracings for New or Used Saddles:
If you anticipate searching for a new or used saddle and want my support, consider preparing tracings in advance. Different saddlers and tack shops may require specific measurements. Contact me with questions prior to your appointment.
The Saddle Fitting Process1. Rider and Horse Evaluation (Mounted)• Please begin riding before my arrival when possible, so I can assess you and your horse in motion while muscles are warmed.
• I observe rider asymmetries or imbalances that may influence saddle adjustments.
2. Horse Evaluation (Unmounted)• The saddle is assessed on the horse before ungirthing.
• The horse is then untacked for a detailed evaluation.
• A well-lit, level area is ideal, with your horse prepared to stand square.
3. Markups and Assessment• Key saddle landmarks are marked (scapula, last rib, channel width, etc.). Photos may be taken for documentation and teaching.
• Musculature, symmetry, signs of discomfort, or atrophy are examined via palpation.
• Shoulder attributes, girth line positioning, muscle health, and back length are assessed.
4. Measurements and Tracings• Full tracings and photos are taken for historical records.
5. Saddle Evaluation (Off the Horse)• The integrity of the tree is evaluated (not broken or twisted).
• Tree and panel shape and condition are analyzed.
• Billet/girth configuration (English) or rigging (Western) is assessed for suitability.
• Pads, girths, and accessories are evaluated.
• Pros, cons, and overall suitability of your saddle (or trial saddles) are discussed.
6. Discussion and Plan• We review findings and formulate a clear next-step plan.
Important NotesSaddle fitting is a process that requires commitment. It may take more than one visit to achieve your goals. Be prepared to learn and apply the information discussed to prevent future issues.
If your horse is not currently in a condition where a long-term saddle solution is appropriate, I may recommend groundwork, in-hand exercises, or collaboration with trusted physiotherapists, osteopaths, trainers, or farriers.
Horse development often requires saddle adjustments or changes over time. If you understand and accept that growth and conditioning influence saddle fit, I can guide you through each stage.
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