by Jennifer Walker

Created on: November 06, 2010

White hairs along a horse’s spine, especially around the withers, are usually a sign of one thing: somebody rode that horse in a saddle that didn’t fit properly, and this went on for a long time. The saddle fit poorly enough to cause sores on the horse’s back, usually pulling or rubbing out the hair, which then grows back white. Imagine how uncomfortable you are when your clothes don’t fit, and then imagine doing heavy labor wearing those pants that are much too tight or the shoes that are so loose you slide around in them. A horse trying to work when ridden in a saddle can have many problems, but this can usually be fixed with some research and patience.

Why Saddle Fit is Important

Saddle fit can cause bigger problems than just a little discomfort. A horse that starts out willing and happy in his work can become testy, pick up vices like bucking and kicking or even become lame. Keep the horse happy, and he will work longer and harder for you than if he is in constant pain due to ill-fitting equipment.

There are different reasons a saddle can be a poor fit for a horse. If it is too narrow it will pinch him, cause him a lot of discomfort and restrict his movement. If it is too wide, the saddle will press on the horse’s withers and spine. Although the second problem can often be sufficiently corrected through the use of extra padding, it is better to find a saddle that fits the horse well. There is no cure for a saddle that is too narrow except to completely change the tree.

The horse is not the only one the saddle needs to fit—it needs to fit you, as well. If the saddle does not fit you, you may have to fight with your tack to keep a proper position, which inhibits your ability to ride your horse well. If the saddle is much too small for you, your weight won’t be evenly distributed—too much will be on the cantle, which puts too much pressure on the horse’s back in that one spot. Plus, you might be uncomfortable and off balance, and that’s no fun for anyone.

Choosing the Right Saddle for you and your Horse

The discipline you will be riding has a big influence on the saddle you choose. There are different types of English saddles for different purposes, and there are different styles of western saddles for different types of riding. Although it is best to get the right type of saddle for what you will be doing with your horse so it can help you, some saddles can work for multiple purposes.

Sit in a lot

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