Judy McArthur
Highly qualified, starting out in the early 90’s Judy has been saddle fitting for over 28 years and during this time has advanced her skills and knowledge culminating in becoming a qualified Overseas UK Saddle fitter with the Society of Master Saddlers in 2010.
This is regarded as the pinnacle of saddle fitting expertise. Being an associate overseas member of the UK Society of Master Saddlers, Judy is continually kept up to date with industry innovations and saddle technology.
As an independent saddle fitter Judy will provide you with an unbiased, honest assessment of your saddle fitting requirements.
What does a Saddle Fitter do?
With the horse held in a halter and standing square, Judy will check the back for white hairs, lumps and sores, condition and conformation features and back sensitivity. The horse willl then be seen in hand for action and for any conformational challenges likely to affect the fit of the saddle.
The saddle fitter (Judy McArthur) will then take a template of the horses’ back with the aid of a flexi-curve Judy will then select and fit appropriate saddles ensuring that they conform to the shape of the horse. The rider of the horse must be present at the fitting as once the saddle is adjusted it will need to be ridden in to be assessed under weight and in motion. For a complete assessment the horse will need to be ridden in all paces (walk trot and canter) on both reins and over obstacles if necessary.
If the client’s saddles are not compatible with the horse’s conformation Judy will recommend appropriate saddles either new or second hand, giving the client completely independent advice. The rider can then proceed to purchase a suitable saddle. Once purchased the saddle will need to be adjusted appropriately then viewed under the weight of the rider both statically and in motion.
General Advice
As part of everyday stable management riders should regularly monitor and recognise any changes in their horse’s shape. This will be related to his/her age, the amount of work he/she does, and his/her feed management. Any changes may seem inconsequential to you, as you see him/her every day, but over a period of time these changes may substantially affect his/her saddle fit. Have your saddle checked regularly by a qualified and experienced UK saddle fitter.
Make sure the flocking of the saddle stays soft and smooth. Any irregularities, lumps and unevenness on the underside of the saddle must be corrected as a matter of urgency so as to prevent any undue pressure on your horse’s back. Pressure points can easily occur on your horse’s back if this is not done. Also uneven flocking can cause your saddle to sit to one side, which can also cause problems to your horse’s back and rider balance and posture.
When you are spending a substantial amount on a top quality hand-made saddle, which is built to last a lifetime, make sure you take care to store and maintain the saddle in the best possible way. Do not store your saddle in a hot dry atmosphere, as this will dry out the leather, causing it to loose it suppleness and thereby compromising it’s longevity. While cleaning and oiling your saddle be sure to check stitching and wear of girth points as this is a safety precaution. This and the integrity of the tree will be checked at your regular saddle fitting. Make sure to store your saddle on a quality saddle rack, carefully designed for the job… preferably not the tubular steel products.