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Saddle Fitting Guide- How to measure your horse.

Saddle Fit Guide & Saddle Purchase Information

When purchasing your next saddle, there are several important factors to consider to help achieve the best possible fit for both horse and rider.

At Country Scene Saddlery, we offer over 40 years of experience and knowledge in helping customers choose saddles. While we are not professional saddle fitters, we have assisted many customers with advice and recommendations that have resulted in successfully fitting saddles. We also work closely with experienced saddlers and professionals within the saddle-making industry.

We are happy to offer guidance based on the information provided, but the final decision and suitability of the saddle remain the buyer’s responsibility.

Important Saddle Return Policy

Please choose carefully, as we do not offer refunds on saddles for change of mind, incorrect fit, colour preference, incorrect information supplied, or the buyer deciding the saddle is not suitable after purchase.

Some brands may offer their own 30-day guarantee or trial period, depending on the product and brand terms. Where this applies, it will be subject to that brand’s specific conditions and does not mean Country Scene Saddlery offers a change-of-mind refund.

We will always do our best to answer questions and provide guidance before purchase so you can make an informed decision.

Information Needed to Assist With Saddle Selection

To help us provide the best possible guide, please send as much information as possible.

Horse Photos

Please provide clear photos of your horse standing square and evenly on level ground. Photos should include:

  • Full side profile with the horse’s head held naturally
  • Rear view looking down the spine
  • Any additional angles that show the horse’s back, shoulders, and overall shape

Please ensure the horse’s head is not held too high or too low, as this can change the appearance of the backline.

Back Trace / Wither Trace

A back trace or wither tracing can be very helpful. Use a flexi curve or malleable wire to trace the withers and back contour, approximately three fingers behind the shoulder blade.

You may also watch this video as a guide on how to do a back trace:Β 
VIDEO LINK

Back traces from a qualified saddle fitter are always welcome, and we are happy to pass these on to our saddlers for consideration. This video may also be used as a general guide:Β Please note, this video is not owned by Country Scene Saddlery, and we accept no responsibility for the accuracy of any back trace, measurement, or information supplied by the buyer or a third party.

Back Length

Measure from the shoulder to the last rib to help ensure the saddle does not extend beyond the horse’s weight-bearing area.

Horse Details

Please provide:

  • Breed
  • Age
  • Height
  • Current condition
  • Whether the horse is in full work, light work, or spelled

Riding Discipline

Please let us know what discipline you intend to use the saddle for, as different saddle styles can fit and perform differently.

Rider Measurements

Rider measurements help give a guide for seat size, flap length, and stirrup or fender position.

Please provide:

  • Height
  • Weight
  • General build
  • Thigh length, hip to knee
  • Inseam, crotch to floor
  • Pants or jeans size as a general seat-size guide

Additional Saddle Fit Notes

  • Bar angles and skirt lengths can impact saddle fit.
  • Terms such as semi QH, full QH, QH, and extra wide trees are not regulated and can vary greatly between brands and saddle makers.
  • Not all saddle styles, trees, or brands fit the same way.

For more information, please see:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM CIRCLE Y
Link to additional saddle fit information

Final Note

We cannot guarantee saddle fit, as every horse and rider combination is different. However, we will do our best to provide guidance based on the information supplied and help you choose an option that may be suitable. The buyer is responsible for supplying accurate photos, measurements, and details before purchase.

NOTE : Back traces from a qualified saddle fitter are always welcome and can be passed on to our saddlers. Country Scene Saddlery accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any back trace, measurements, or details supplied by the buyer or a third party. Final saddle selection and fit remain the buyer’s responsibility.




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