26/07/2019
.us
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Two headplate shapes (U and V) in the same tree width. You can see how the U-headplate (top) has a much wider area at the pommel than the V-headplate (bottom). This U-shape gives the withers and Trapezius more clearance than the narrower V, and prevents the saddle from pinching.
When I studied with this particular saddle brand in the UK, the Master Saddler said, “The V-headplate should not be used on horses that have any type of withers, even low ones, as it will cause the saddle to pinch the Trapezius. Always use a U-headplate.” .
I attended a different saddle fitting course in the US that teaches students that the saddle should sit directly on the Trapezius, and they favored a V-headplate design for all types of horses.
So who is correct? To figure this out, do a little experiment: Get a backpack and fill it to 15-20% of your body weight (approximate rider:horse weight ratio), and using only the shoulder straps (some backpacks have a waist strap), walk around for an hour. Your neck and upper back will become very sore because all the weight is being carried by your Trapezius. Why? Our Trapezius muscle IS NOT MEANT TO CARRY WEIGHT.
All backpacks designed for hiking are made with a waist strap to transfer the load onto the pelvis and OFF the Trapezius. It is the same for horses; the weight of the saddle must be placed on the weight bearing muscles of the Latissimus Dorsi and Longissimus Dorsi, never the Trapezius.
It’s simple anatomy.