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Discussion on Saddle fit for rider
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Member:
Maggienm
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Posted on Thursday, Dec 29, 2005 - 12:41 pm:
OK so I have a saddle that fits the horse, but....how do I know if it fits me! Specifically an english dressage saddle?
I have been asking local coaches but I am getting conflicting reports.
Thanks
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Member:
Canderso
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Posted on Thursday, Dec 29, 2005 - 1:06 pm:
Hi Lori,
My thoughts:
1) Does the saddle allow you to drape your leg naturally or does it put you in a chair or forked seat?
2) Is the twist (width at the pommel) comfortable? Do you prefer a wider or more narrow twist?
3) Are the knee rolls in the right spot for you? Large enough (or small enough) for you?
4) Are the flaps the right length to compliment your leg (shorter legs should have shorter flaps)
5) Now the hard one to explain: Does it reward you (and help you) when you and the horse are going correctly? Does it tell you (nicely) that you are NOT riding correctly ...without bothering the horse?
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Member:
Canter
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Posted on Thursday, Dec 29, 2005 - 3:06 pm:
A few more thoughts:
~Sitting correctly as possible, what does the saddle do to your upper body position? Does it tip you forward, keep you straight or tip you back?
~How much space is between your butt and the cantle? Usually about a hand-span's worth is correct.
~If the saddle meets all of Cheryl's criteria, is it comfortable? (I just tried a beautiful new buffalo hide saddle that fit my horse and fit me, but the seat was as hard as a rock - I didn't even try to sit the trot or canter in it)...concentrate on each body part as your try it out - is it rubbing the inside of your thigh, or calf?
Do you have a trainer, Lori? If so, I would have that person watch you ride in the new saddle to see how it affects you and your horse's way of going.
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