Here Society of Master Saddlers’ Qualified Saddle Fitter, Helen Reader, provides advice on the correct seat length for horse and rider.
How can I work out what seat length will fit both me and my horse?
The maximum length of the seat is determined by the length of the horse’s rib cage. Find the last rib and then follow the natural curve up, the tree of the saddle must not pass this point. If the horse is short in the back, then the panel may go beyond this point, but never the tree.
When the rider is sitting in the saddle they need three to four fingers distance behind them. This is so that they are sitting in the deepest part of the seat and not putting all their weight on to the back of saddle.
Saddles with a flatter seat will allow more room for the rider, whereas a deep seat will feel more enclosed and may require a longer seat length for the rider.
For more information visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk or contact The Society of Master Saddlers on 01449 711642.
