What Happens During a Saddle Fitting
Table of contents:
Duration of the saddle fitting process
1. A fitter assesses a horse's conformation
2. Evaluation of the current saddle (if applicable)
3. New saddle or adjustments recommendations
4. Riding during the saddle fitting
At Cavaletti Collection, we know that a well-fitted saddle is key to your horse’s comfort, soundness, and ability to perform. Horses change shape with work, age, and seasons, so keeping their saddles fit under regular review is one of the most important parts of caring for them.
A professional saddle fitting allows you to assess your horse’s current shape, check that your saddle is still supporting them correctly, and make any adjustments needed.
It also helps you, as the rider, stay balanced and in harmony with your horse.
If you are wondering what to expect during a saddle fitting, this guide will walk you through the process. It is something we are often asked about, and we are happy to share what we know.
Duration of the saddle fitting process
We always recommend allowing around two hours for a full fitting. That might sound like a lot, but taking the time to do it thoroughly makes a real difference.
Your fitter will want to observe your horse both standing and moving, assess your current saddle, if you have one, and potentially try other saddles if needed.
There is also time built in for discussion and small adjustments.
Rushing this process is never advisable when your horse’s comfort and freedom of movement are at stake.
Before your fitting
Preparing for your fitting appointment helps everything run smoothly. Your horse should be clean and dry, especially across the back and girth area.
Have your usual tack to hand, including your saddle pad or numnah, girth, and bridle. You should also wear your regular riding attire, as ridden work is part of the process.
It is useful to share any changes you have noticed recently, such as soreness, resistance in certain movements, or changes in behaviour under saddle. Your fitter will take this into account during their assessment.
If you would like a deeper understanding of the principles behind saddle fitting, reach out to one of our fitters. We have built a list of trusted fitters to help you in this journey.
1. A fitter assesses a horse's conformation
One of the most important parts of the process is understanding your horse’s conformation as it is today. Horses are dynamic, and their shape will shift depending on work level, muscle development, age, and injury history.
Your fitter will observe your horse standing on level ground and will assess their topline, shoulder angle, wither shape, and back profile. They may also gently feel along the back and surrounding areas to check for any sensitivity or uneven development.
This helps them understand where pressure needs to be avoided and how best to support your horse’s natural movement and way of going.
The British Equestrian Federation provides further resources on how equipment choices can influence equine welfare.
2. Evaluation of the current saddle (if applicable)
If you already have a saddle, it will be assessed both off and on your horse. What may have fitted perfectly six months ago could now need minor adjustment or no longer suit your horse’s shape.
Your fitter will first place the saddle on your horse’s back without a girth to assess balance, panel contact, clearance, and overall symmetry. Your horse will then be observed in-hand in walk and trot to see how the saddle moves and whether it remains stable.
This stage is not just about what the fitter sees. We always encourage riders to share what they have felt in their riding, as small shifts in behaviour can often provide useful clues about fit.
3. New saddle or adjustments recommendations
Once the assessments are complete, your fitter will discuss their recommendations with you. Sometimes small changes such as reflocking, girthing adjustments, or a different pad can improve fit. In other cases, a new saddle may be advised to achieve the best possible outcome for horse and rider.
At Cavaletti Collection, our adjustable saddles are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing them to adapt as your horse develops. We see this as an essential feature, particularly for young horses or those progressing in work.
If you need help finding a qualified fitter, our Find a Fitter page lists trusted professionals who can support you through this process.
4. Riding during the saddle fitting
Ridden assessment is an integral part of the fitting. Saddles that look perfectly balanced when static can reveal issues once the horse starts moving and the rider is in place.
You will be asked to ride in walk, trot, and canter as appropriate. Your fitter will observe your horse’s movement, looking for rhythm, freedom, and evenness. They will also observe your position, balance, and the stability of the saddle under you.
Again, your impressions are valuable. We always encourage riders to speak up about how the saddle feels to them and whether they notice any change in their horse’s way of going.
Fitting checks
Following the ridden work, your fitter will carry out final checks to confirm that the saddle is performing as it should. They will check that it remains correctly balanced and stable when you are in the saddle and that your horse continues to move freely and comfortably.
You will also receive advice on monitoring fit going forward. Horses can change shape quickly, so regular check-ups are recommended to ensure continued comfort and performance.
The British Horse Society also offers advice on recognising early signs that your saddle may no longer fit as your horse changes.
At Cavaletti, we always remind riders that saddle fitting is not a one-off job but an ongoing part of caring for your horse. A well-fitted saddle supports soundness, encourages correct muscle development, and helps horse and rider work in true harmony.
We hope this guide helps you understand what happens during a saddle fitting and why it is so important. If you would like help finding a fitter, our Find a Fitter page is a good place to start. You can also explore our range of adjustable saddles and carefully chosen saddle accessories to support your horse’s comfort and way of going.
