While the results may not come as a surprise to some, the study disproves the ‘commonly held’ belief that saddles fitted slightly wider than normal give the horse better freedom of movement
The practice of fitting saddles slightly wider than ideal to allow horses more freedom of movement is having an opposite and detrimental effect, a study has found.
Researchers found using one tree width fitting narrower or wider than that set out in Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) guidelines had a negative impact on equine locomotion and musculature.
You may also be interested in…
Reducing saddle pressure can increase flexion and power *H&H Plus*
Riders are more stable in saddles without flaps, study finds
Researchers found ‘significant reductions in range of motion of the rider’s centre of pressure’ in flapless saddles
11 reasons why the fit of your saddle should be checked now
Sue Carson, founder and managing director of Sue Carson Saddles explains why autumn is an important time to check the
‘Saddle-slip’ is a cause of back pain in riders
The Saddle Research Trust has identified ill-fitting saddles as a cause of back pain in riders
