Hollistic Saddle Fitting
A good saddle fit is something I am passionate about, work tirelessly to understand and perfect. I continue my professional development every single day.
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Getting your horse fit for purpose is rarely just about the saddle, so we work with you to help you get the very best from your horse. This involves discussing the following aspects and taking it all into account. :
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Understand the horse’s Anatomy/Confirmation/Condition/Mental State and History
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Nutrition
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Hooves
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Saddle Structure (Tree, Panel, Style)
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Rider Level
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They all impact the horses way of going and only by ensuring all these aspects are working, can you and your horse start to progress. For this reason I like to work as part of a team, with you and your other equine professional - A holistic approach to saddle fitting.
Initial Assessment - What to expect
It starts with a hands on assessment of the horse, to feel and appreciate your horse whilst I talk with you about the history and what brought you to me. This may include a walk and trot up if possible.
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Once completed, I’ll talk you through what I'm seeing/feeling and what areas I would look at “if” I had just bought the horse. This is an unbiased, objective opinion and a discussion point. We may suggest a vet, a body worker or digestive support, ground work only, or even time off, unridden but at each step have you understanding the process and why I have reached that requirement
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I’ll then assess your own saddle (if you have one) and ensure it’s sound in all respects and then assess its fit on your horse the best I can. It may mean I need to drop the panels, but don’t panic, I know how to sew it back on!
​The initial assessment will take between 1 – 2 hours. Be prepared to ride at the initial and follow-up sessions. Please ensure that the horse is in, hasn't been ridden and ready for the appointment time. Times can be skewed due to situations I may face, BUT I will let you know in advance if there are any problems.
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NOTE: We do not fit horses under the age of 4 years old.
Pricing:
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Initial Assessment cost depends on location, starting at £60, plus mileage. Wherever possible I will design routes that allow you to share mileage with other visits that day (0.45p per mile)
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On Site extras Saddle Company & Stride Free Adjustments £25, Flocking £25. We do not adjust wooden tree saddles on site.
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Off site work is not included and will be charged depending on the task.
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Follow up appointments are £45 under 6 months since last visit, over it reverts to £60
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Area Covered for Saddle Fitting:
Herts, Beds, Bucks
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Fitting Requirements
In order for me to fit a saddle to your horse I expect it to be in a condition to accept a rider and their weight.
We apply the generally accepted rule of 10% body mass ratio for competition and 15% for regular riding. We would prefer to stay within those parameters.
Any loss of muscle can, within reason, be supported with additional padding such as a Prolite pad etc. However, if your horse is scoring a body condition of between 1-2/10 and 9-10/10 we will not be able to saddle your horse without you putting in work to rectify that.
I'm a holistic fitter so take the whole horse, not just the saddle so working with me means taking on other advice such as body work, nutrition etc. so your horse can do it's best for you.
I care more for your horse, than your ambitions but will support you all the way to achieve them - but your horse will always come first so bear that in mind before you ask us to visit.
If we wouldn't ride your horse, then we wouldn't expect you to.
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IMPORTANT : If your yard has issues such a Strangles/Mites, please inform me immediately.
Stock:
I have a small range of saddles to view and try if appropriate.​
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I work with the following saddle makers and their lead times:
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Harry Dabbs & Jeffries :8-10 WEEKS
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Nick Dolman Saddlery : 12-16 WEEKS
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Stride Free - Peter Horobin Saddles : MAINLY IN STOCK BUT BESPOKE 18 WEEKS
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The Saddle Company : 4-8 WEEKS
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Prices new from £850- £4500 and 2nd hand Saddles start from £450.
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NOTE : If you want a large range of cheap second hand saddles, we're not the saddle fitters for you.
Trials:
Trials are available on all saddles and for a maximum of 2 weeks where we hope you will be able to achieve 4 rides to determine and analyse how your horse feels. Essentially if you see/feel an improvement, or not.
Loans:
Loan saddles are available depending on the situation. You will be asked to sign a loan agreement.