Picking out the right saddle is one of the most important aspects of horseback riding. Without the right saddle, your horse risks exposure to many health and riding problems. If you’re unfamiliar with how your saddle affects your horse, check out these examples and evaluate if your tack needs upgrading.
Health Effects
Poor Posture
A saddle that you don’t take proper care of can break down and weaken over time, not only requiring a quicker replacement but also hurting your horse’s posture. Similarly, if the saddle doesn’t fit correctly, your horse may arch or hallow their back to accommodate the poor fit and alleviate some of the pain, resulting in long-term posture trouble.
Sores and Lesions
If the saddle you’re using is too tight, it can create painful sores, lesions, and circulation problems due to the pressure and rubbing up against your horse’s coat. Saddle sores are common problems with ill-fitting tacks. This will not only be painful for the horse but also pose a greater risk of dangerous bacterial infections.
Riding Affects
Training a horse with a saddle they aren’t comfortable with is bound to create problems. Your horse may become apprehensive to commands if the saddle doesn’t fit properly. They can also become agitated and irritable due to the discomfort and pressure. Head-tossing, bucking, refusing to move, or bolting are all signs your horse may have a problem with the saddle. Some horses may also resist moving in a circle. This is because a poorly fitting saddle makes it difficult for horses to balance riders on their backs. Traveling in a circle may make them feel more unsteady while they’re supporting the uneven weight.
Your saddle affects your horse in several ways, including their health and riding abilities. Before you tack up your horse, make sure you have a well-maintained and properly fitted saddle.
