Saddle fitting appointments
What happens during a saddle fitting appointment?
Every appointment starts with an assessment of your horse, taking into account their conformation, current way of going, history and any particular requirements or concerns. I'll also discuss your own requirements as a rider and the type of work you do.
From there, I'll select a small number of suitable saddles from the available stock for a ridden assessment. This allows us to compare the options and consider how each saddle works for both horse and rider.
The aim is to find a saddle that is appropriate for your horse, suits you as a rider and is suitable for the work you do.
How many saddles will I get to try?
Although I hold hundreds of new and second-hand saddles in stock,it isn't physically possible to bring them all with me!
I normally carry 20-30 saddles, specially selected for the horses I am seeing that day.
Following the initial assessment, I'll narrow down the selection to a small number of suitable saddles for ridden assessment. This means we can concentrate on comparing the options most appropriate for you and your horse, rather than working through a large number of unsuitable saddles.
How long does a saddle fitting appointment take?
Appointments are allocated enough time to assess your horse, discuss your requirements and try suitable saddles. The time needed can vary depending on the horse, the number of suitable options and the nature of the appointment.
As a general guide routine saddle checks take approximately 1 hour, where as a full fitting of a new saddle usually takes around 1.5 hours.
Does my horse need to be ridden during the appointment?
Yes, your horse should be available to be ridden by their usual rider. Assessing a saddle both on the horse and under the rider is an important part of the fitting process.
Please make sure there is a suitable area available for ridden assessment, with a safe surface and enough space to work comfortably.
What do I need to prepare for a saddle fitting appointment?
Your horse should be clean, dry and ready to be tacked up. Please have your usual rider and riding equipment available, along with any saddle pads or other equipment you regularly use.
A suitable riding area is also needed so that saddles can be assessed under normal riding conditions.
This question is particularly useful because it helps prevent appointments being delayed or compromised by practical issues on the day.
Saddles, brands and finding the right fit
Do you offer new and second-hand saddle fitting?
Yes. Polished Saddles offers fitting with both new and second-hand saddles.
I hold a large selection of saddles in stock, allowing me to consider different makes, models and options when looking for a suitable fit. The selection is based on the individual horse and rider, rather than being restricted to one brand or a small range of models.
Which saddle brands do you work with?
I am an approved fitter for Equipe, Renaissance, Prestige and Amerigo, with particular experience in competition and jumping saddles.
I also hold a varied selection of second-hand saddles, giving me the opportunity to consider a wider range of makes and models depending on the requirements of the horse and rider.
Can you fit a saddle to my horse if I already have one?
If you already own a saddle and would like it assessed, I offer existing saddle assessments for Amerigo, Equipe, Prestige and Renaissance saddles.
We don't offer general assessment appointments for every make and model. If you are considering looking for a different saddle, however, I can consider this on a case by case basis.
What happens if you can't find a suitable saddle?
The priority is finding a saddle that is appropriate for both horse and rider. I won't recommend a saddle simply because it is available or because it is the closest option.
If there isn't a suitable option in the stock available at the time of your appointment, I'll explain the position and discuss whether there are any other options worth considering.
Booking, fees and travel
Frequently asked question
A first saddle fitting appointment is £70. Follow-up appointments are £50.
If you would like to consider an additional type of saddle (for example, jump and dressage) during your appointment, an additional charge of £35 applies.
Travel is charged separately, with the amount depending on your location. The fitting and travel charges are payable in advance to secure your appointment.
You can view our full saddle fitting terms and conditions by clicking here.
Which areas do you cover for saddle fitting?
Polished Saddles is based near Evesham in Worcestershire and offers mobile saddle fitting across a wide area of England and Wales.
We regularly travel across the Midlands, South West, South East and South Wales, with coverage varying depending on the location.
Some areas are covered regularly, while others may require sufficient interest to organise a visit. You can view the coverage map above to check whether your area is included.
If you're unsure, please get in touch with your location and we'll be happy to advise.
How far in advance do I need to book a saddle fitting?
Appointments are arranged geographically wherever possible, so availability depends on your location and the existing fitting schedule.
Some areas are visited more regularly than others, and appointments may need to be grouped with other bookings nearby. If you have a particular timeframe in mind, it's worth enquiring as early as possible.