Posted: 2nd February 2018 | Back to news feed
Master Saddler Laurence Pearman answers three frequently asked questions on saddlery. Laurence is twice president of the Society Master Saddlers and a Lecturer / Assessor on Saddle fitting courses.
Q1. People often state that you should be able to fit two fingers width under the pommel, but is this a good rule of thumb that a saddle fits?
The old adage of the two finger clearance under the pommel is a little out dated now. We now look for sufficient clearance when the rider is mounted, but this is a very small part of what the saddle fitter looks for when checking a saddle.
Clearance is also required at the back of the saddle between the panels and the spine, to sit level from front to back, width of tree points in relation to horses withers, angle of tree rails, overall length of saddle, length of tree points and shape of panel, to name just a few of many others, which will be checked if you call in a Qualified Saddle Fitter.
Q2. After selling my horse, I have a saddle that I don't need. What's the best way of finding a new home for my saddle?
If you are not in need of the saddle anymore first thing to do is to find the current value of it. The best way to do this is to take it to your local Master Saddler to get it valued. It may be that a straight sale to them will result, but certainly it would be a good idea to have the saddle checked for safety for a small fee, then if needed made safe, either for a private sale or it can be advertised in equine publications and social media.
It is best to always recommend the purchaser needs to get the fit checked by a Qualified Saddle Fitter.
Q3. Should new items of tack be 'broken in' gently to avoid any pinching or rubbing, or should they be OK to ride in 'normally' straight away?
When fitting items of new tack it is advisable firstly to check the fit is correct before putting on any preparations which may alter the colour if the item needs changing. That done, then take all the components apart and using a good quality balm / conditioner apply sparingly with a cloth / sponge to both sides of the leather to render it to become more supple.
If the leather is not cared for it will become dry and brittle and will crack, the leather needs to be protected before use as it come into contact with sweat, heat, sun and very damp conditions.
Also with the more supple leather it will be more comfortable for the horse. Always store your tack at room temperature.
Information about the Society of Master Saddlers can be found on the website: www.mastersaddlers.co.uk or telephone 01449 711642.
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