When in doubt, have it Checked Out
We are a Maine private equestrian barn,
operating since 2008.
We offer saddle fitting, flocking and related services from April to October and by appointments. Saddle fittings can be arranged on site or at your barn.
Saddle Fitting: English & Western
**Saddle fitting** refers to the process of ensuring that a saddle properly suits both the horse and the rider, providing comfort, safety, and optimal performance. A well-fitted saddle is crucial for the health and well-being of the horse, as it helps to distribute the rider's weight evenly and reduces the risk of injury to the horse’s back. For the rider, a well-fitted saddle can enhance comfort, balance, and overall riding performance.
Saddle fitting involves several key considerations:
1. **Fit for the Horse:**
- Wither Clearance: The saddle should have enough space around the horse's withers to avoid pinching or pressing on the delicate tissue.
- Panel Contact: The panels (the parts of the saddle that rest on the horse’s back) should provide even, full contact along the length of the back without creating pressure points.
- Tree Width and Shape: The "tree" is the internal structure of the saddle that determines its width and shape. The tree should match the horse's back and conform to the shape of its spine and shoulders.
- Gullet Size: The gullet is the space between the pommel (front of the saddle) and the withers. It should be wide enough to allow the spine to remain uncompressed and allow for the movement of the horse’s shoulders.
- Balance and Position: The saddle should be positioned correctly on the horse's back, neither too far forward nor too far back, ensuring even weight distribution and proper movement.
2. **Fit for the Rider:**
- Seat Size: The saddle should be the right size for the rider's weight and seat width. This allows the rider to sit comfortably and maintain good posture.
- Stirrup Length and Position: Adjusting the stirrups to the rider's leg length is essential for proper leg position and balance while riding.
- Flap Length and Position: The length and positioning of the saddle flaps should accommodate the rider’s leg length and riding style.
3. **Rider and Horse Interaction:**
- Comfort and Function: A well-fitted saddle allows the rider to feel connected to the horse, giving them the ability to communicate effectively through subtle movements. For the horse, a proper fit enables freedom of movement without restriction, which is essential for performance.
4. **Regular Check-ups:** - **Changes in the Horse’s Body:** As horses grow, gain or lose weight, or change shape due to training, injuries, or aging, saddle fit may need to be reassessed. Regular checks are important to ensure ongoing comfort and performance.
5. **Professional Assistance:**
While it is possible for a knowledgeable rider or owner to assess 
saddle fit, it is often best to work with a professional saddle fitter who has experience in evaluating and adjusting saddle fit to ensure it’s correct.
Proper saddle fitting requires attention to detail, and because each horse and rider is unique, getting the perfect fit can sometimes take trial and error. It’s an investment in both the horse’s health and the rider’s performance, ensuring that both can perform at their best while minimizing discomfort or risk of injury.
Our independent fitter, Lori Stammer, is certified through the Saddlefit4Life Academy and has fitted over 60 horses across Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Driven by a commitment to finding the perfect fit for both horse and rider, Lori's goal is to ensure every combination works optimally, regardless of the specific circumstances. To achieve this, she has completed extensive training with fitters from Kentaur Saddles in Canada and attended the North American Saddler School for continued education in Benchwork and HCS saddle fitting. Her expertise covers both English and Western saddles, as well as flocking and some repair work.
Lori understands that with thousands of saddle makes, models, and styles available, finding the right horse-rider-saddle combination can be a challenge. However, she is dedicated to working through the complexities to discover the ideal match, taking the time and effort to solve each individual "puzzle" for the best fit.
Be proactive and schedule a fitting to snsure a well fitted saddle to keep you and your horse performing all season.