Saddle & Accessories: Everything Around Saddle, Girth and Pad

Saddle & Accessories: well saddled in every discipline

In Saddle & Accessories you will find everything that sits between your horse's back and you as the rider and keeps the saddle securely in place. That includes dressage, jumping and general purpose saddles, girths, stirrups with leathers, numnahs and half pads, plus bareback pads for riding without a saddle. Covers, spare parts and care products help your saddlery last for years.

Fit first, then everything else

With a saddle, fit matters more than anything. It has to suit your horse's back shape, the width of the tree and you as the rider. Ideally have it fitted by a saddler or saddle fitter and checked regularly, because muscle and back change with training, age and the seasons. On saddles with an interchangeable gullet plate, the width can be adjusted later on. A good saddle pad protects the saddle from sweat and can even out small fit issues, but it never replaces a saddle that fits.

Girth, stirrups and care working together

The girth holds the saddle in position without rubbing behind the elbows. Anatomically shaped girths give the elbow more freedom of movement. Stirrups and stirrup leathers help decide how quietly and evenly you sit, and safety stirrups release your foot in a fall. Regular leather care keeps the leather supple, and a saddle cover keeps dust and scratches away in the tack room.

Frequently asked questions

How often should my saddle be checked?
As a rule of thumb once a year, and more often for young horses, after a break from work or after noticeable weight changes. If your horse becomes reluctant when tacked up, drops its back or shows dry patches in the sweat pattern, have the fit checked soon.

Is it safe to buy a second-hand saddle?
Yes, as long as it fits your horse and the tree is sound. Have a saddler check the tree, flocking and width before you buy. A bargain saddle that pinches ends up costing you and your horse dearly.

What do I need to tack up?
Besides the saddle you need a suitable girth, stirrup leathers and stirrups, plus a saddle pad or numnah. Depending on the horse, a half pad to fine-tune the fit may be added. Many saddles come without girth and stirrups, so check carefully beforehand.