What To Expect
Our Registered SMS Qualified Saddle Fitters Visit Format Includes:
- Introduction to the rider (or handler) and horse.
- With the horse held in the halter and standing square on a level and firm surface, we check the back for white hairs, lumps, sores, condition, conformation features, and "back" sensitivity.
- The horse will then be seen in-hand for action, soundness, and any conformation problems likely to affect the fit of the saddles.
- We take a template of the horse's back with the aid of a Flexi curve. Using all the collected information, we select and fit (try on) appropriate saddles, ensuring that they conform to the horse's shape. The aim is to provide a good gullet clearance, accurate panel contacts, and freedom of movement of the shoulder blades (scapula). The saddle must not come into contact with the loin area and be balanced front-to-back and side-to-side.
- The horse will be then ridden by the rider in the chosen saddles in both directions (walk, trot, and canter) and, if necessary, over small jumps.
- While the horse is being ridden, we will check for the balance of both the saddle and rider.
It must be accepted that the horse’s shape/condition will change with progressive work and, conversely, with rest. It is therefore recommended that you arrange for regular checks to be carried out by your TruFit qualified saddle fitter minimum of 2 x’s per year. You may find a weight tape useful to monitor your horse’s condition.
