( FOCUS ON SADDLING )


Champion and Wilton. Circa 1930's


are of course exceptions) so some wither is essential. Side saddles are longer than astride saddles, so the horse will need good length of back.


There is limited supply of side saddles which makes finding the perfect one a complicated task and the result is oſten a compromise. Fitting a side saddle can therefore be a long drawn out affair.


As with fitting an astride saddle it is very important to have the side saddle checked and fitted by an expert.


Can any saddle fitter fit a side saddle?


No. Only an experienced side saddle fitter understands the dynamics involved to fit a side saddle correctly.


Fitting a side saddle is very specific and precise and completely different to fitting an astride saddle. To begin with they are usually very old and therefore a thorough safety check is needed.


This will include testing the tree for cracks or breaks. Inspection of all straps and examination of the panel. The side saddle specialist will be able to advise on the suitability of the side saddle and carry out any repairs and reflocking as necessary.


Once the side saddle has been confirmed as fit for purpose it can be fitted to the horse. Unlike the panel of the astride saddle, a side saddle is not symmetrical. The weight and balance of the rider is still spread evenly as with an astride


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Modern side saddle with a Wykeham Pad


saddle, but just over a larger bearing surface and with different balance points.


The rider has a lot of influence over the fit of the side saddle. Experienced side saddle riders are well balanced and know how to distribute their weight through the saddle.


Less experienced novice riders can inadvertently put too much pressure on the stirrup therefore unbalancing them- selves and the saddle will tip to one side.


A list of side saddle specialists is available on both the Society of Master Saddlers website and the Side Saddle Association website.


For more information visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk or contact The Society of Master Saddlers on 01449 711642.


Jumping,Dressage,GP and Pony Saddles Supplied and Fitted


Made To Measure Service if required


Good Selection of Used Saddles listed onWebsite Saddles Checked and Flocked On-Site Large Area Covered


Spec


Allmajor saddle makes supplied and fitted:


whateev


ttoo optimise Enjoyment and PerfoorJumping, Dressage,GP and Pony wh


ciialising in Comfoorrt foorr hoorrse and rider, rmance,


veer your D ciDisiscipline.


Albion,Amerigo, Black Country, Equipe,Jeffries, Prestige,Kent andMasters and Pessoa.


Caring, professional and thorough approach, understanding the needs of you and your horse or pony


www.wills-saddlefitter.co.uk 07941 512933 saddles@antoniawills.co.uk


saddles available Made to measure service if required


Will travel any distance Large range of second hand saddles available. On-site checking and flocking service.


www.wills-saddlefitter.co.uk www.wills-saddlefitter.co.uk


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