Art2Ride Saddlery

29/08/2024

Did you know that an ill-fitting saddle can lead to long-term damage for both you and your horse? Discomfort today can become a bigger issue down the road, affecting your horse’s performance and your riding experience.

But it doesn’t have to be this way! A few minutes spent ensuring a proper saddle fit can save years of discomfort and even prevent injury. Your horse’s back health is crucial for their overall well-being, and as riders, we have the responsibility to ensure they’re comfortable and supported.

👉 Have you ever noticed signs of discomfort in your horse while riding? Drop a comment below with your experience or any questions you have about saddle fitting. We’re here to help!

19/08/2024

"My eyes were opened to the importance of proper saddle fit and how an ill-fitting saddle can cause so many problems for the horse and rider. I am now a certified Peter Horobin saddle fitter. I am so thankful I have had the opportunity to work alongside and learn from such incredible equestrians and excited that I will be helping so many horses and riders in the future through correct training and saddle fitting." - Damian Pichardo, Certified Peter Horobin Saddle Fitter

As a horse trainer and saddle fitter, I can't stress enough the impact of a properly fitted saddle on both horse and rider. Like Damian, I aim to share my years of experience and knowledge to enhance the relationship between rider and horse.

👉 Follow for more tips on how we can help you and your horse achieve optimal performance and comfort.

14/08/2024

Imagine trying to run with your shoulders pinned down—uncomfortable, right? Unfortunately, this is what many traditional saddles do to your horse.

Most saddles are built with rigid trees that can restrict the natural movement of the horse’s shoulders, causing discomfort, pain, and even behavioral issues. This restriction can lead to a hollow back, raised head, and a general sense of unease in your horse, impacting performance and overall well-being.

But what if there was a better way? The StrideFree® tree is a revolutionary design that’s all about freedom of movement. Unlike conventional saddles, the StrideFree® tree is carefully engineered to allow your horse’s shoulders to move naturally, without the pressure and pain caused by traditional saddle trees. The result? A happier, healthier horse that can perform at its best with greater ease and comfort.

Ready to see the difference? Contact us for a saddle assessment and give your horse the comfort it deserves.

10/08/2024

You know what’s wild?? These two saddles measure the same at the “gullet.” Both measure over 7.5” and are considered extra wide (the bottom saddle is a draft saddle). You know what else is wild?? They are COMPLETELY different angles, and when customers shop for saddles, they are only told the gullet width. WIDTH and ANGLE are TWO DIFFERENT MEASUREMENTS!

🐴 There is no industry standardization on widths. Semi-QH, Full QH, Draft trees…can all be completely different across brands and makers.

📐 If your saddle pinches your horse at the top of the tree, chances are it is TOO WIDE rather than too narrow. Going for a “wider tree” will only cause your saddle to pancake onto your horse’s withers. Note- it is the ANGLE that is too wide.

🦄 Your saddle needs to be wide enough at the top (gullet width) to allow your horse’s shoulders to have a free and full range of motion

🐎 The width at the bottom of the tree should allow a base of support matching the angle of your horse’s back.

🌲 Just because it’s wider, doesn’t mean it’s better. It’s important to know the gullet width AND the measurements at the bottom of the tree and tree angle. The saddle at the top is 14” across the bottom and was too wide for the horse at 110 degrees. The saddle on the bottom measures 12.5” at the bottom and has a 94-degree angle allowing a good range of motion while keeping clear of the withers and cartilage on the shoulderblades.

❤️ There’s no way to ensure a saddle fits without trying it on the horse, but measurements can help you find the best options! 😃 Simple tracings can save you time and money!

01/08/2024

At Art2Ride Saddlery, we're committed to protecting horses from the long-term damage of poorly fitting saddles while considering the rider's comfort and performance.

With our online saddle fitting, we ensure that every saddle is tailored to both horse and rider, no matter where you are.

During your consultation, we'll explain how an ergonomic fit improves comfort, performance, and communication, protecting the nerves, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and skeletal systems of both horse and rider.

We use scientific methods and measurements to fit a saddle to a horse not only standing in the crossties (static) but also with the horse and rider in motion (dynamic). The analysis is based on veterinary findings about equine biomechanics and how a saddle affects a horse’s movement and soundness. If it is determined that your saddle needs adjusting, re-flocked, or repaired, we will discuss what corrections are needed.

Don't let distance keep you from the perfect saddle fit. Our online consultations remove barriers, ensuring your horse gets the care it deserves.

Experience the difference of a properly fitted saddle. Contact us to learn more!

30/07/2024

At Art2Ride Saddlery, my mission is clear: to help trainers, riders, and horse owners avoid the mistakes I made over the years.

I got into saddle fitting the hard way. My horse was unhappy, becoming ill-behaved while being saddled, and struggling to engage through her back. I couldn't find a saddle that fit her properly, and I was constantly buying new saddles as she or my needs changed. Frustrated by the lack of options, I decided to become a saddle fitter myself.

Through my experience, I’ve learned which saddles are most responsive to these issues. There are many saddles on the market, each claiming to be the best. But the true test is your horse's comfort and performance.

👉 Follow for tips to achieve greater harmony between you and your horse.

22/07/2024

Saddle fitters, not salespeople. All Peter Horobin Certified Saddle Fitters are experienced horse people, passionate about their craft. Our saddle fitters are trained to confidently educate you about biomechanics and saddle fit.

Remember, your saddle is only as good as the person who fits it. Peter Horobin Certified Saddle Fitters are seasoned professionals in the horse industry. They have the expertise to evaluate your saddle fit, determine the best options for you, and, most importantly, listen to your horse's needs. Your horse has to live with the choices you make, after all!

Regardless of the saddle brand you own, the right saddle fitter will determine how well it works for you and your horse. It's essential to educate yourself on recognizing a true saddle fitter – someone who understands equine movement, the horse-rider relationship, and the impact of saddle fitting on both. This level of knowledge comes from a lifetime with horses, not just textbooks.

Choose wisely and ensure your saddle works harmoniously for both you and your horse.

15/07/2024

One of our favorite jump saddles is the Peter Horobin Saddlery StrideFree® Melbourne II. Designed with both rider and horse comfort in mind, this saddle features a refined close contact design for optimal mobility and balance. The stirrup bar alignment adapts to dynamic riding positions, while back blocks ensure your legs stay securely in place during higher jumps. The fully adjustable tree, comfortable soft seat, and customizable knee blocks offer a perfect fit and ride for any rider.

Built on the StrideFree® tree, the Melbourne II allows complete freedom in your horse's shoulder movement, enhancing performance and comfort. With a lifetime warranty on the tree, wool flocked panels that can be easily repacked on-site, and options for short or long girth straps, this saddle is designed for durability and adaptability.

Ideal for riders who demand excellence and dream big, the Melbourne II is your edge to success. Follow us for more expert tips and the latest in equine back health and saddle fitting!

09/07/2024

Curious about kissing spine and how to prevent it? Drop your questions in the comments below.👇

Let's talk about Kissing Spine!

But what is Kissing Spine? Our friends at Art2Ride Saddlery talked about the importance of a proper saddle fitting in preventing kissing spine.

See below!

"Kissing spine, or Overriding Dorsal Spinous Processes (ORDSP), happens when vertebrae in a horse’s spine are too close together, causing pain and affecting performance.

Signs of kissing spine can include sensitivity to brushing, girthiness, bucking, rearing, head tossing, and overall poor performance.

Proper saddle fit is key, as poor fit (and training) is a major contributing factor. Regular checks and adjustments can prevent the horse from developing back pain and help maintain its overall health and performance."

05/07/2024

After 10+ years of searching for the perfect saddle, here's my ultimate wish list, thanks to my lifelong experience with horses and many saddle mistakes (oops!):

1️⃣ Adjustable Gullet Plate: Imagine a saddle that can continuously fit your horse or any horse you ride. As your horse changes shape with work (or lack thereof), your saddle shouldn't become the enemy!

2️⃣ Comfort for Horse and Rider: It’s pure joy to see a horse move freely and a rider in perfect balance. No more girthing up issues or angry faces from your horse! A properly fitting saddle can transform your horse's mental attitude and work ethic.

3️⃣ Quality Leather and Craftsmanship: A saddle that lasts your entire riding career and beyond. Quality counts!

4️⃣ Aesthetics: A beautiful saddle is like a well-trained horse – pleasing to the eye. Customize your saddle without breaking the bank!

5️⃣ Affordability: Peter Horobin saddles offer incredible value for money. High quality, artistry, and attention to detail in a price range that won't make you faint.

6️⃣ Family Business: I prefer family-run businesses over corporations. The Horobin family is amazing, and their integrity and heart are in the right place.

7️⃣ Ease of Fitting: Horobin Saddles are designed for easy fitting, from the StrideFree tree to accessible panel designs and billet placement options. It's all about what’s under the hood!

I love what I do, and nothing fills my soul more than helping horse and rider achieve harmony and lightness with the right saddle fit.

02/07/2024

Did you know Peter Horobin Saddlery has been handcrafting quality saddles in Australia for over 35 years? These saddles support equine back health and horse biomechanics, allowing for complete shoulder movement with the revolutionary StrideFree® tree.

Whether you’re into dressage, show jumping, eventing, endurance, racing, or just love a good trail ride, we've got a saddle for you!

Once you ride in a Peter Horobin saddle, you'll never go back!

Got questions about saddle fitting or equine back health? Drop them in the comments below!👇 Let's chat!

27/06/2024

Designed with the stylish rider in mind, the monoflap StrideFree® Elite by Peter Horobin Saddlery is designed for close contact with your horse, ensuring every ride feels like a seamless dance. Whether you're stepping into the saddle with a swift leg over or sitting deep for a perfect seat, this fully adjustable saddle provides unparalleled comfort and complete freedom for your horse’s shoulder movement.

What do you love most about your saddle? Let us know in the comments!

21/06/2024

At Art2Ride Saddlery, our saddle fitting process is backed by scientific methods and measurements, assessing both static and dynamic fit to optimize comfort, performance, and communication. We prioritize your horse's biomechanics and soundness, safeguarding against long-term damage.

Plus, we consider the harmony between saddle design and human anatomy for a seamless rider experience. During a consultation, we go over how an ergonomic fit can protect nerves, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and skeletal systems, ensuring a happy ride for both you and your horse.

Here's a quick look into our comprehensive evaluation:

1️⃣ Measure your horse using three separate tools.
2️⃣ Evaluate your horse’s basic anatomy.
3️⃣ Identify & analyze saddle support area.
4️⃣ Evaluate the current saddle (if you have one).
5️⃣ Measure the rider.
6️⃣ Evaluate how your current saddle fits you.
7️⃣ Evaluate the static fit of your current saddle to your horse.
8️⃣ Evaluate current saddle fit to your horse in motion.
9️⃣ Discuss findings from the entire evaluation process, including dust pattern analysis.
🔟 Discuss your options!

If your current saddle passes the checklist, then you are good to go, congratulations! You receive your evaluation report and are on your way. If it is determined that your saddle needs adjusting, re-flocked, or repaired, we then discuss what corrections are needed.

Schedule your appointment for a saddle fit evaluation online today to get started!

21/06/2024

Check out the beautiful new cognac color on this Peter Horobin Saddlery StrideFree® General Purpose saddle!

The General Purpose saddle combines the lightweight forward cut of a jump saddle with the deeper seat of a dressage saddle to create a comfortable and supportive saddle for riders of all ages. Perfect for roaming on the weekends, riding down the road, up the mountains - or anywhere where life takes you.

Comment below and let us know where you would take your StrideFree saddle!

13/06/2024

When we talk saddles, it often leads into a conversation about the saddle tree. The Peter Horobin Saddlery StrideFree® tree is designed to allow complete freedom of your horse’s shoulder movement, enabling a longer stride and more comfort during motion.

Horses’ forelimbs are attached by a ‘false joint’—muscles and fascia, not bones. Restricting these structures impedes full range of motion. The top of the scapula is cartilage, and the thin trapezius muscle, which plays a role in forelimb movement, houses sensitive nerves. Your common have trees and full trees can press on these areas, causing pain and performance issues.

This is why the StrideFree philosophy is a game-changer in equestrian saddles. Using a StrideFree tree daily can enhance your horse’s comfort and assist in performance.

12/06/2024

We’re proud to offer Peter Horobin StrideFree® Saddles in North America!

Experience the Australian innovation and artistry that prioritizes both horse comfort and rider stability. Our saddles ensure maximum freedom and comfort for the horse, while keeping the rider balanced and secure at the horse’s wither.

Choose from a range of personalized options, from classic styles to unique designs, all crafted from premium leather.

Peter Horobin’s groundbreaking StrideFree tree design, which revolutionized the racing industry, is incorporated into our Dressage, Jumping, and Endurance saddles. Combining art and technology, these saddles are tested for both strength and comfort.

Discover the difference for yourself! Check out Peter Horobin Saddlery to learn more!

04/06/2024

Many horse owners are unsure of what correct saddle fit is, and many saddlefitters are unaware of the aspects of saddle fit that do or do not restrict the horse, harm the horse or unbalance the rider to the point they have to ride in tension, or a forced position to keep an alignment.

Check out my website Art2RideSaddlery.com for my list of trusted saddlefitters in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Certified Saddlefitters for Peter Horobin Saddlery are experienced horsemen - professionals in the horse industry - who have the experience behind them to recognize the subtleties of evaluating your saddle fit and determining which options will work on an individual basis, but also know how to listen to your horse’s opinion. Your horse has to live with the choices that you make!

03/06/2024

Hi, I’m Karen Loshbaugh! 👋

I became interested in saddles and saddle fit the hard way. I struggled with saddles that kept running over my horses shoulders and restricting her movement and could not find a solution. She was becoming ill-behaved and it was increasingly difficult to get her to engage and connect through her back. It was obvious she was uncomfortable. I was so frustrated at the lack of options in saddles and the constant need to buy different saddles every time my horse changed or I got a new one. Having experienced firsthand my own debilitating saddle fit issues, I dedicated years to becoming a professional saddle fitter.

As a saddle fitter, I look at not just the saddle but the interaction between the horse and rider. I focus on the relationship between the saddle’s tree width and the horse’s shoulder angle, highlighting the need for saddles like Peter Horobin Saddlery that can be customized to fit the horse’s evolving shape.

My mission at Art2Ride Saddlery is to educate riders, trainers, and horse owners to help you understand the importance of correct saddle fit. I am passionate about protecting horses from discomfort and help other riders achieve a comfortable, relaxing, supple ride with their horses.

Follow along as I share expert tips on saddle fitting, equine wellness, and how to achieve the perfect horse-rider connection. Let’s connect and share any questions below!

30/04/2021

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apCQ7LDFLzs

Karen Loshbaugh from Art 2 Ride explains how to correctly fit a double bridle and discusses how to use it.