Tack, equipment and travel
Get a head start on saddlery, tack, travelling with horses and other topics.
Saddlery and tack are important pieces of equipment and by having it correctly fitting for your horse can help them feel happy and healthy. Take a look at these short videos to build your knowledge on tack and dress.
Horse assessment
A saddle fitter will make a thorough assessment of your horse, including checking their back and girth area. They will note any areas of conformation or condition that may affect saddle fit, and will watch your horse walk and trot up to help understand how their gait may affect saddle fit.
Saddle placement
This video will show you how to check that your saddle is in the right position.
Saddle balance
This video will help you identify good saddle balance. If you feel unbalanced or unstable when riding or it’s difficult to stay in alignment, or if your horse is reluctant to move forward, or is not moving freely, it may be that the width of your saddle is not correct and needs to be adjusted.
Saddle width
A saddle helps to keep the rider stable and safe, and it helps to make the job of carrying them as comfortable as possible for the horse. Find out about the saddle width.
Saddle assessment
This video will give you a good idea of what to expect from the ridden assessment part of your saddle-fitting appointment.
Fitting a bridle correctly
The Society of Master Saddlers take a closer look at how to fit a bridle correctly. A correctly fitting bridle is essential for your horse’s comfort and performance. Find out about the process that should be undertaken to ensure your horse’s bridle is suitably fitted and the correct way to put it on in this case study.
Travelling safely with horses
Watch this video to fin out more about travelling with horses - including loading, unloading and horsebox and trailer safety, also preparing the horse for travel, pre-vehicle checks and advice during transit.
