Saddle Fitting

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Click Here for the Video, now on

Lars Petersen Symposium Website

LilLars


	CLICK HERE to download a printable version.


	Step 1

	Find the rearward end of your horse's shoulder. (about 2-1/2" or three fingers behind the shoulder)

	Step 2


	Make a line at this point by using your hand to make a line on your horse’s coat. Hint: dip your finger in water first! This is the point where the saddle tree fits over your horse’s withers


	You Will Need:



		18 inch is great.


	Pencil or Pen


	File Folder or paper big enough for a good trace, like a sketch pad.


	Step 3


	Make your first tracing (wither) at this mark being sure that your horse is square with head erect and up. Mold the flexible 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 flexi curve and placing It back down. Gently remove the flexible curve and lay it on your paper. Now trace the underside onto the paper. This determines the shape of the tree.




	Step 4


	The last step is the spine/top tracing. IMPORTANT: Start at the point where you took the wither tracing (Step 1), lay the flexible curve on your horse’s spine, molding it to conform to its shape. Carefully remove the flexible curve, place it on the paper and trace the underside onto the paper. Try to include as much as possible. This step determines the size of the saddle’s gusset, which allows proper balance on the horse.