Maryland Saddlery's Guide to Choosing and Fitting Saddles Issue 1 | Page 21

3.
Remount and allow your legs to drop naturally (no
Repeat these steps with other saddles of interest. Hopefully you
stirrups). Do you feel laterally and longitudinally balanced
will have 2 or 3 finalists. Now it is time to try these on your horse.
and supported? Can you drop your legs down and around your
Everything will feel totally different. Your horse will be shaped
“horse”? Are your knees resting softly against the flaps and
differently and the element of motion is added.
pointing forward? Are your toes pointing naturally forward? (If
Do you know an independent saddle fitter (one who is not trying
not, the twist may be too wide and you should try a different saddle
to sell you a saddle)? Do have a riding instructor? Do you have
with a narrower twist.)
a knowledgeable friend? It’s time to get
4.
Put your feet into your stirrups.
them involved. Make an appointment
Call tack shops in your area to
Check ear-hip-heel alignment by looking
to meet with them at the barn and