Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my saddle doesn't fit?

Common signs of poor saddle fit include:

• White hairs or dry spots on your horse's back (indicating pressure points)

• Resistance to being saddled or mounted

• Hollowing, stiffness, or unwillingness to move forward freely

• Behavioral changes like pinned ears, tail swishing, or bucking

• Uneven muscling along the back

• Saddle sliding or shifting during riding

• Difficulty with specific movements or transitions

• Your horse feeling "different" or not performing like they used to

 

If you're noticing any of these signs, a professional evaluation can identify whether saddle fit is contributing to the problem.

How often should I have my saddle evaluated?

Most horses benefit from saddle fit checks every 6-12 months. Schedule more frequent evaluations if your horse is:

• Young and still developing

• In a new training program or moving up levels

• Recovering from injury or time off

• Experiencing seasonal weight fluctuations

• Showing any signs of discomfort or performance changes

​

Think of it like dental checkups—regular maintenance prevents small issues from becoming big problems.

 

What should I do to prepare for an appointment?

On the day of your appointment, I will keep you updated about my estimated arrival time. Please plan to have your horse ready to go about 10 minutes before your appointment time, so that you can have a relaxed appointment experience and get the most out of your appointment. Here's how to prepare: 

• Have your horse clean and dry

• Gather all saddles and pads you'd like evaluated

• Be ready to ride so I can observe movement under saddle

• Prepare a list of any specific concerns or questions

• Clear a safe space where we can work

• Have your horse's usual tack ready (girth, bridle, etc.)

 

No need to stress about perfection—I'm there to help, not judge.

​

Do you sell saddles?

I carry select saddles and equipment for sale, and I also offer consignment services for quality used saddles. I have relationships with other retailers and resellers as well, so that whatever your needs and price point, I can help you find the equipment that's right for you. However, my fitting services are completely independent—I'll recommend what's truly best for your horse, whether that's a saddle I have available, one from another source, or keeping what you already own with modifications.

 

What if my saddle needs adjustments?

I provide reflocking and adjustment services on-site for many common fit issues. For more extensive work, I'll take your saddle back to my workshop or give you specific recommendations and can coordinate with qualified professionals. I can also evaluate the results after adjustments are made to ensure everything is working properly.

 

What disciplines do you work with?

While my primary riding experience is in dressage, the principles of saddle fit apply across all English disciplines. I work with dressage, eventing, jumping, hunting, and general riding horses, for both youth and adults. Understanding biomechanics and movement translates across disciplines, though each has specific saddle requirements I take into account.

​

Do you work with horses of all sizes?

Yes, I work with horses and ponies of all sizes, from small ponies to large warmbloods and drafts. I have a special interest in hard-to-fit horses, because I've owned a couple unique horses myself and I know the struggle of getting them tack that fits right. Each horse and rider partnership requires careful attention to proportion, balance, and appropriate equipment sizing. Big or small, every horse deserves proper fit.

​

I'm shopping for a new saddle. Where do I start?

Start with a consultation. I'll assess your horse's conformation, your position and riding style, and your goals. From there, I can provide specific guidance on saddle types, brands, and features that will work for your situation. This gives you a roadmap for shopping and helps you avoid expensive mistakes. For your appointment, I can bring demo and consignment saddles that may work and you may try them with no obligation.

​

Can you evaluate a saddle I'm considering purchasing?

Absolutely. If you're looking at a specific used saddle or trying demos from a retailer, I can assess whether it's appropriate for your horse before you commit. This is especially valuable for used saddle purchases where returns aren't always possible.

 

My horse has asymmetry or a unusual build. Can you still help?

Yes—in fact, these are the horses who need professional fitting most. Asymmetry, high withers, wide backs, narrow builds, or other conformational quirks require careful saddle selection and often custom adjustments. I work with you to find solutions that accommodate your horse's unique shape.

 

What's the difference between reflocking and a full strip and reflock?

Reflocking adds or adjusts wool in specific areas to improve fit and I can generally do this onsite at your barn. A full strip and reflock removes all the old wool completely and starts fresh with new flocking throughout, and I do this back in my workshop. Full strips are needed when panels are old, lumpy, uneven, or haven't been serviced in many years. Most saddles that are in regular use will need a full reflock every 3-5 years. You'll be amazed the difference it makes for both horse and rider! 

​

How long does an appointment take?

Plan for 1 to 2 hours for a complete evaluation. This gives us time for thorough assessment, watching you ride, discussion, and questions. Adjustment appointments may be shorter or longer depending on the work needed.

 

What payment methods do you accept?

I accept cash, check, Venmo, and credit card payments via Stripe. I do charge an additional processing fee for credit card. Payment is due at time of service.

​

How far in advance should I book?

I recommend booking 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during busy spring and fall seasons. If you have an urgent concern or a time-sensitive situation (like a saddle trial ending soon), contact me and I'll do my best to accommodate you.

​

Do you travel to my barn, or do I bring my horse to you?

I'm completely mobile—I come to you. This means your horse stays in their familiar environment, and you don't need to arrange trailering. I bring all necessary equipment and tools. For more extensive work, I will take your saddle back to my workshop, and deliver it back to you.

 

What areas do you serve?

I provide saddle fitting services throughout Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana. Travel fees may apply depending on your location. Contact me to discuss your specific barn and we'll work out the details.

​

My trainer or vet recommended I get my saddle checked. What should I tell you?

Please share any concerns your trainer or vet mentioned—specific movements that are difficult, areas of sensitivity, performance changes, or anything else they noticed. This context helps me focus the evaluation and work as a team with your existing support professionals.

 

I bought my saddle from a reputable fitter/retailer. Why would I need another opinion?

Even expertly fitted saddles need maintenance as horses change through training, conditioning, age, and seasons. Additionally, an independent evaluation can catch issues that develop over time or provide a fresh perspective if you're experiencing problems. There's no saddle that fits forever without adjustment.

 

Can poor saddle fit really cause that many problems?

Yes. The saddle is the interface between you and your horse—it affects everything from their ability to lift their back and engage, to their willingness to move forward, to muscle development and long-term soundness. Many behavioral and performance issues that seem mysterious have saddle fit at their root.

 

What if I can't afford a new saddle right now?

Not every saddle fit issue requires a new saddle. Often, adjustments like reflocking, pad changes, or minor modifications can significantly improve fit. I'll always be honest about what's possible with your current equipment and help you prioritize solutions that fit your budget.

 

Do you offer any guarantees?

I guarantee honest, thorough assessment and clear communication about my findings. Saddle fitting is both science and art—I bring expertise, but every horse is individual. I'll work with you until we find the best solution, and I'm available for follow-up questions and reassessment as needed.