Fitting a Western Saddle:

Any saddle that you choose should fit both the horse and rider. When fitting the horse, it is important that the saddle does not impede the horses movement. Make sure that there is at least two inches (three fingers) of clearance over the horses withers.  The saddle should not pinch the withers and make sure that no weight is placed on the backbone or withers. The points of the tree should rest just behind the horses shoulder blades.  Keep in mind that the bearing surface of the western saddle are the sheepskin covered bars and the larger the bearing surface, the more comfortable the saddle is for the horse. 

Things to Watch For:

• When checking the fit of a Western saddle, place the saddle on your horse without any padding. 
• Test the gullet of the saddle to make sure it completely clears the backbone by inserting a long whip through the gullet from the withers to the croup.  It should be easy for the whip to slip through the channel.
• Check that the saddle is not too long for the horse.  A saddle that is too long will press into the loins and can cause serious injury to the kidneys.
• Look at the saddle from the side and make sure that it sits level from front to back.  The deepest part of the saddle should be the saddle's center, with the swells and cantle being the same height.

Very Important:

After riding, check the sweat marks on the horse.  A properly fitting saddle will result in symmetrical marks with slick hair.  A ill fitting saddle will leave dry spots and/or ruffled hair on the horses back. Continued use of a poorly fitted saddle can result in pain, swelling and open sores.  This may be later evident as spots of white hair.

Appropriate padding can help a saddle fit a horse properly. Check at your local tack store to find padding that is the best for your horse and saddle fit.