Have you just purchased a new horse? Just getting into riding? Want to make sure your saddle is right for you and for your horse. These steps should help you get started with your saddle fit.

STEP 1Riders correct seat size

To measure for the appropriate seat size you need to measure your upper thigh:

  1. Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground, knees bent at a 45-degree angle. Make sure your bottom is touching the back of the chair.
  2. Use a measuring tape and take it along your thigh bone, measuring from the end of your knee to the backside of your bottom.
  3. It’s better to go a size larger if in doubt.
  4. For Western riders the rule of thumb is that the English seat size is generally two inches larger than a Western saddle seat size.

Once you have measured up you can refer to the below table to get an idea of the saddle size that might suit you best:

Measurement Saddle Size
Less than 16.5″ 15″ saddle
Between 16.5″ and 18.5″ 16″ saddle
Between 18.5″ and 20″ 16.5″ saddle
Between 20″ and 21.5″ 17″ saddle
Between 21.5″ and 23″ 17.5″ saddle
More than 23″ 18″ saddle

It’s best to confirm this with your saddle fitter when they are on site but this will give you a guide to start looking at your options for a new saddle or checking that your current saddle is correct for you.