© 2011 Custom Saddlery
Every saddle should fit regardless of your descipline. At Custom Saddlery our wide range of styles are designed to accommodate the countless horse and rider combinations. In this section we will guide you step-by-step through the fitting process.
The goal of these measurements will determine the shape of what size gussett we will need to make. This will ensure that the saddle fits and is properly balanced on your horse's back.
Tools needed flexicurve or curves around 24" long (either with our fit kit or available at any art or office supply), along with a file folder (works well) or large craft paper. If you desire a fit kit they are available, simply email us wityour tree and h your mailing address and request a fit kit. Before starting be sure your horse is on level ground in cross ties or with a friend holding your horse with a lead line.
end of your horse's
shoulder about three fingers behind
their shoulder.
Make a line at this point by
using your hand to make a
line on their coat (dipping
your fingers in water
will
help make your line)
THIS IS THE POINT WHERE
THE SADDLE TREE FITS
OVER YOUR HORSE'S
WITHERS
Make your first tracing (wither) at that mark being sure that your horse is square with his head erect and up. Mold the flexi-curve to the shape of the horse's withers being sure it fits snug on both sides. You can test the shape by picking up the flex-icurve and placing it back down. Gently remove flexi-curve and lay it on your tracing paper and trace the underside onto the paper
.
This determines the shape of your tree.
Next is the spine/top line tracing...IMPORTANT: > Starting at this point where you took the wither tracing (Step 1), lay the flexi-curve on your horse's back spine molding it to its shape. Gently remove and trace the underside of the flexi-curve. Try to include as much as possible.
This determines the size of the saddle gusset which
allows proper balance on you horse.
