03/04/2026
Just because your saddle fits your horse doesn’t mean it suits you.
As riders and horse owners, we’re constantly focused on saddle fit. We all know that a poorly fitting saddle can cause a range of short- and long-term issues for our horses—from back pain to an inability to perform movements correctly. However, what’s often overlooked is how many riders continue using a saddle that fits their horse but doesn’t suit them. This can lead to discomfort, shorter rides, riding less often—or even giving it up altogether.
A few years ago, I hopped on a client’s horse during a lesson when she was having a tough day. “I’m just a terrible rider,” she told me, despite my reassurances that this wasn’t the case. After just two laps of the arena, I couldn’t wait to get off. My seat ached, and my back felt like it was about to give up entirely. I turned to her and said, “It’s definitely not you—it’s your saddle.” We swapped it out for one of mine, and the difference was immediate. Her riding improved dramatically, and her face lit up as she exclaimed, “I’m not useless after all!”
The reality was simple: she’d bought that saddle in her early 40s, and now she was in her late 50s. Her body had changed—but her saddle hadn’t.
This isn’t uncommon. As we age, we often need more support in some areas and less in others. A deeper seat, better padding, or a narrower twist can make a significant difference—especially for hips and lower back comfort.
This isn’t about being a “wuss.” It’s about recognising that your comfort matters just as much as your horse’s. When your body is in pain, your natural response is to tense up. That tension affects your position, your aids, and ultimately the clarity of your communication with your horse. It’s a lose-lose situation.
To be clear, this isn’t about blaming equipment for a lack of skill. It’s about acknowledging that our bodies change over time—and adapting accordingly. If we want to keep riding well and for years to come, we need to be kinder to ourselves and give our bodies the support they need. And if you’ve been thinking about buying a new saddle… well, consider this your perfectly valid excuse. 😉