Online Saddle fitting
Horse Measurements
You will need something to trace your horses back with and I would suggest rubbers ties ( Amazon ).
The video on the right shows how to do the tracings.
Best to use sidewalk chalk or chalk paint and after marking the locations of your tracings please send a photo for reference.
There are separate videos for finding the SSA (saddle support area) and the Topline measurement.
Tracings
Please be sure to have your horse standing square.
A photo of where you drew your chalk lines for your tracings on the horse is very helpful.
Saddle Support Area
To find the last thoracic rib look at the flank area ofhe horse and find where the hair converges from two different directions and follow this line straight up. The photo example shows where these converging lines are. Measure from the curved line at the back of the shoulder blade to the chalk line for the last thoracic rib.
Topline measurement
An added measurement that is very beneficial is the shape of the topline. Please be careful and monitor your horses reaction and best with some help. Use a two foot level and a ruler. Put one end of the level at the first chalk mark at the top of the wither. Make sure the level is in balance and use the ruler to measure the distance from the bottom of the level to the chalk mark for tracing E. Record the measurement in inches on your tracing sheet.
Tracing Diagram
The photo example shows what your tracings should look like once you are finished. Notice on the example I have added a 1" scale so I can check that the scan has printed correctly. You can trace them on letter size paper, scan and send an email to karen@art2ride.com.
Click below for a downloadable form for your convenience.
VIDEO
A video example of you riding your horse can be very helpful with the dynamic fit of your saddle.
Ride your horse on a twenty meter circle at the walk, trot and canter both directions. If possible ride with NO PAD - only if you feel that it is safe to do so - young or sensitive horse's may object to the feel of the saddle with no pad and if in doubt use a pad.
After your ride carefully remove the saddle without disturbing the dust pattern created by the saddle. Video this dust pattern from behind (over the back), left and right side of the horse or take photos.
