11/07/2025
Working with PREs on a regular basis, they are all different and similar…
This lovely older mare Hes, owned by lovely Meryl is a good example of a fit older horse, she has quite a shapley back to accommodate, fairly prominent wither and a prominent shoulder.
And not necessarily the shape you might expect from a PRE, mares tend to have a longer back, than boys, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have a larger saddle support area to work with!
These two ladies spend hours riding out so a regular check for balance, comfort and fit are very important.
If you have a PRE and regard yourself an “Just a Happy Hacker” there is no “Just” about it, you are likely in the saddle for several more hours per week than someone schooling, so please don’t think you don’t need your saddle checks, and they are not as important as someone who competes!
As they really are. At least 4 times a year with seasonal changes (or more if required) are a good starting point to catch the changes in the horse and flock, which are likely to effect saddle fit.
Most of us think nothing of a farrier or trimmer coming out on a regular basis, so it’s good to adopt the same mentality with saddle checks.
Struggling with anything, or even to think when you had your last check, you can contact me Jane on - 07971019225 if you need any help.
PRE’s