I do things a little differently.

The traditional method of saddle fit assessment is tried, tested and proven over many years; HOWEVER, it is still without doubt a subjective craft. Get two saddle-fitters in a stable with a horse and the discussion on best fit will not always be one of agreement.

How can I improve the service for my client?

I decided to add a little science and objectivity into the mix. Surely the best way of getting a correct saddle to fit a horse is to take a proper template cast of the shape of the horses back? Then match the saddle to that shape.

So, I have developed and tested a method to do exactly that.

I have sourced a material, equipment and method where I can take a direct cast of the shape of your horse’s back and hand it to you for you to find a saddle that matches that shape.

Traditional Method Icon

Traditional Method

1

Traditional Horse Assessment

  • Age/Size/Condition/Measurements
  • Health Issues/Concerns
  • Behavioural Issues
  • Riding/Exercise Regime and Plan
  • Photos/Video of horse shape and conformation
2

Current Saddle Fit Assessment (if applicable)

  • Unmounted and Mounted Assessment
  • Health Issues
  • Behavioural Issues
3

Saddle Tree Trial and Assessment

  • Equiflex Range of Saddle Trees trialled and assessed on horse
4

Saddle Tree Adjusted Specification

  • Chosen tree with required shape adjustments specified
5

Custom Saddle Specification

  • Detailed Custom Saddle specification completed with customer
Vagabond Method Icon

Vagabond Method

1

Traditional Horse Assessment

  • Age/Size/Condition/Measurements
  • Health Issues/Concerns
  • Behavioural Issues
  • Riding/Exercise Regime and Plan
  • Photos/Video of horse shape and conformation
2

Template/Horse Preparation

  • Prepare Vagabond Template Material - Circa 20 minutes
  • Ensure the horse has connected with the fitter and is calm and responsive
3

Template Fitting Process

  • Place Vagabond Template material on horses back
  • Smooth and shape and adjust
  • Allow to set - circa 5 minutes
4

Completed Template

  • Remove from Horse and hand to customer
5

Next Steps - Customer Options

  • Customer uses finished template to source and check the fit of a saddle of their choice
  • Customer sources a saddle and requests Saddle fitter accompanies them to assess its suitability using the template
  • Customer gives a budget to the Saddle Fitter and asks them to source a saddle for them using the template
  • Customer requests a custom new saddle is built from the template.