About Us
My Journey
I got into saddle fitting the hard way. My horse was unhappy, becoming ill-behaved while being saddled, and struggling to engage through her back. I couldn't find a saddle that fit her properly, and I was constantly buying new saddles as she or my needs changed. Frustrated by the lack of options, I decided to become a saddle fitter myself.
Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about how saddle fit affects a horse’s comfort and willingness to work. Here are some key insights:
Horses’ Change
Horses' bodies change due to growth, training, or lack of it. These changes affect the shoulder angle, saddle fit area, and topline. Saddles need regular adjustments, especially in tree width and angle, to stay balanced for both horse and rider. Understanding how to keep a saddle centered on an asymmetrical horse is crucial.
Proper Saddle Fit is Essential
A properly fitted saddle is vital for a horse to move comfortably and efficiently. It’s unfair to expect a horse to perform well if the saddle hinders its movement. Correct saddle fit allows a horse to be responsive, relaxed, and willing to engage its back.
Rider Position and Balance
For a horse to respond well to weight and leg aids, the rider must be in the optimal position. A well-fitted saddle enables the rider to give aids correctly and the horse to respond without tension.
Correct measurement and tracking of your horse's changes, routine maintenance, and having a qualified saddle fitter are essential. Understanding the relationship between tree width, angle, and a horse’s shoulder angle is crucial. A customizable saddle that can adapt to these changes is the best choice. Flocking alone can’t adjust the tree width/angle, which is often the main issue affecting a horse’s movement.
Through my experience, I’ve learned which saddles are most responsive to these issues. There are many saddles on the market, each claiming to be the best. But the true test is your horse's comfort and performance.
Mission
My mission is to help trainers, riders, and horse owners avoid the mistakes I made. I aim to protect horses and ensure they can be ridden in relaxation, resulting in greater harmony between horse and rider.
The Story Behind Peter Horobin Saddlery
Peter Horobin began his saddle-making journey with an apprenticeship at one of Germany’s oldest saddleries. Returning to Australia, Peter and his wife Julie established Peter Horobin Saddlery in the scenic coastal town on the Mornington Peninsula. With over 35 years in the Australian market, PHS has grown to create and fit saddles across six continents.
Designed in Melbourne, Peter Horobin saddles are crafted from the finest, sustainably sourced leathers from Europe. By choosing a Peter Horobin Saddle, you’re opting for unparalleled comfort and adaptability for your horse. We strive to make your saddle-buying experience memorable, offering tailored, custom-made products and a fully bespoke experience.
Peter’s passion for equine biomechanics led to the development of the revolutionary StrideFree® tree, enhancing shoulder rotation, stride length, and overall back health. This innovation has impressed riders worldwide, across disciplines like racing, dressage, show jumping, and eventing.
As a second-generation family business, Peter Horobin Saddlery continues to thrive, blending family values with the latest research and technology. PHS takes pride in craftsmanship, using A-grade European eco-friendly leather and sustainable wool for the panels. The saddles are meticulously finished with quality brass fittings and beautiful head nails.
Equine back health is at the heart of PHS designs. We believe our four-legged friends should move freely and comfortably as we ride. We look forward to welcoming you to the PHS family!
“We dedicate our whole lives to perfecting the art of saddle-making and endeavor to provide excellent service, quality saddles and strive for excellent after-service for the equestrian industry.”
