Saddle Fitting

Here at the National Saddle Centre we pride ourselves on delivering the complete saddle fitting experience. We understand the importance of having the right saddle for both you and the horse. Jo Beavis, who has over 30 years of experience and is both a qualified SMS Master Saddle Fitter and an SMS Master Saddler, founded the National Saddle Centre in 1992.

SADDLE FITTING

With a range of saddles from various brands, we can give you the professional, independent help of either a SMS Master Saddle Fitter or SMS Qualified Saddle Fitter to ensure this is the right choice for you both. Having been involved in many research projects surrounding saddlery, fitting and performance our aim is always to improve the performance and freedom of movement whilst ensuring comfort for the horse and rider.

The saddlery industry is constantly evolving and we love seeing and being part of all the new developments coming through. Scientific research is a key part of the ever-evolving industry and we are proud to say that we are heavily involved in this.

We have extensive experience with all shapes and sizes, from happy hackers and cobs all the way up to top level competition horses. Our huge variety of saddles and products ensures we have something to fit every horse we see.

We cover a large area of the UK but you can also bring your horse to us in Rowington, where we have an arena with a few jumps to give you a true feel of the saddle you are trying.

Achieving The optimum fit

The team at the National Saddle Centre are constantly working to achieve the optimum fit – every horse and rider combination are unique!

We first take time to understand your individual requirements, the direction you wish to take, your targets and ambitions and the subtle changes that can affect the success of the horse/rider partnership.

A full physical assessment of your horse, their conformation and movement are made and recorded, not only for today but future reference. Your horse’s level of training and any issues encountered are noted as this can affect the balance, stability and straightness of your saddle.

Test rides and feedback are recorded to best determine the most appropriate saddle which ensures rider security and balance whilst allowing the horse to work at maximum efficiency. The comfort of the saddle for horse and rider is essential for maximum performance and is a multi-dimensional issue, which is relative to the discipline you are trying to excel in.

Get in touch to organise a saddle fitting

As avid horse owners and riders ourselves we understand every horse and rider is unique and therefore each appointment is tailored to suit both of your needs. You can discuss any concerns or issues you may be having surrounding your saddle with us throughout the time we spend with you to ensure both you and your horse are happy and comfortable.

If you would like fittings for multiple horses please either fill out this form for each horse or contact us directly and we would be happy to help.

The importance of correct saddle fit

Both we and The Society of Master Saddlers strongly recommend having saddles checked at least every six months, though more frequent assessments are often necessary. Horses’ shapes are constantly changing, and it’s crucial that the saddle maintains a proper fit at all times. Even the slightest discomfort can quickly escalate as the horse or rider begins to compensate.

Research by Russell MacKechnie-Guire of Centaur Biomechanics has demonstrated that the force exerted by the rider is twice their body weight at trot and 2.5 times their body weight at canter. This significantly amplifies any issues related to poor saddle fit, making regular checks essential.

Has it been over 6 months since your saddle was checked?
Book an appointment HERE

Get in touch to organise a saddle fitting

At the National Saddle Centre we are constantly working to maximise biomechanical ability in order to reduce fatigue, and increase all round mechanical confidence, without compromise.

Fill in our enquiry form or contact us directly to get booked in.