How to saddle a Horse

Step1

Know that horses come in all shapes and sizes. You'll need to find a saddle that properly fits your horse. It's best to bring your horse to a saddlery so you can fit several saddles at a time.

Step2

Select a saddle that fits snugly over the horse's withers, shoulders and back without digging in.

Step3

Set the saddle on top of a saddle pad without snugging the cinch down. There should be no gaps around the entire skirt of the saddle.

Step4

Tighten down the cinch to secure the saddle to the horse.

Step5

Slide your hand in between the horse and the saddle pad. You should be able to move your fingers all the way around the saddle without forcing it.

Step6

Look to see that the saddle doesn't hit the horse's withers.

Step7

Choose a saddle that fits properly over a saddle that doesn't fit as well but is designed for the type of riding you'll be doing. Fit comes before function.

Tags: saddlery, cinch, saddle pad, withers, riding

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