Saddle Fit Advice

[TwistedBeauty]

I got this saddle from one of my friends to try out since it was an extra. I’m not familiar with western saddles, so any insight on how it fits would be appreciated. If it doesn’t fit well, I’ll just give it back to her. I only ride about once or twice a month bareback, but it’s uncomfortable sometimes, even with a pad. I don’t have much or any tack, so I don’t have a cinch to cinch it up or a pad to put underneath. If this looks like it fits, I will buy some used tack. Also, what kind of rigging is this?

• I can fit 2-3 fingers in the gullet. It looks like it may appear less due to the lighting. I’ll get better lit photos tomorrow.

• I believe the pressure underneath is consistent throughout on both sides. It is snug.

[ChestnutArabianMare]

I’m not loving it. Looks like it’ll pinch at her shoulders, especially on the right side.

A good bareback pad can make a world of difference, especially if you’re riding just once or twice a month.

[RedHorses]

Can you borrow a saddle pad or blanket and a cinch from your friend and try it out? Your horse’s behavior and sweat pattern will tell you a lot.

It’s hard to tell for sure, but I might set it a bit further back behind her shoulders - like maybe 1-1 1/2", not much.

You might also find that you hate it.

[WildGooseChase]

Gullet, bar spread and panels just look a bit too narrow for your horse, which would only be exacerbated by a saddle pad. Western saddles are meant to be fitted with a saddle pad, and I would NOT ride/fit a western saddle without one period. Overall, I wouldn’t use it.