Saddle Not Fitting Horse Well — How to Detect and Fix It

Updated: May 2026 · Rincón del Valle Technical Team

The problem

"I suspect the saddle doesn't fit my horse well: they show discomfort, white marks, or change their attitude when ridden."

This is one of the most frequent problems our customers consult us about at our physical store in A Coruña and via WhatsApp. Here we break it down with real causes and proven solutions.

Why does this happen? — Common causes

  • Incorrect tree. The tree (internal structure of the saddle) does not fit the width of the horse's withers. It can be narrow, medium, or wide.
  • Poorly padded panel. The panels (padding under the seat) may be worn, asymmetrical, or too flat.
  • High withers not accommodated. In horses with very high withers (Arabs, Lusitanos), a tree that is too low presses on the withers.
  • Muscle changes. The horse's musculature changes with training or age. The saddle that fit 2 years ago may no longer fit.
  • Incorrect saddle pad. A saddle pad that is too thin, thick, or asymmetrical alters the saddle's fit.

How to solve it

Solution 1: Professional saddle fitting

Hire a certified saddle fitter. It is the definitive solution. It costs €80-150 but saves bigger problems.

Solution 2: Change/adjust the panels

Brands like Stübben allow panels to be adjusted or changed. It's cheaper than buying a new saddle.

Solution 3: Use a therapeutic saddle pad

Anatomical saddle pads (Kentucky Absorb, Eskadron Climatex) compensate for asymmetries while you solve the problem.

Solution 4: Consider changing saddles

If your horse has changed a lot, it may be time to change. A good saddle lasts for years — a bad one ruins horses.

Products that can help

When to seek professional help

If you have tried these solutions and the problem persists, consider consulting with:

  • Equestrian professional: an experienced instructor can see nuances that you might miss.
  • Equine veterinarian: ruling out physical problems is always prudent.
  • Saddle fitter / Bit fitter: specialists in saddle or bit fitting.
  • Our Rincón del Valle team: write to us at info@rincondv.com or WhatsApp 620 17 64 18 explaining your case. We provide advice without obligation.

More resources

Rincón del Valle technical team — specialists in equestrian equipment who daily handle cases like this. Physical store in A Coruña + online advice throughout Spain.