How to Fit Wintec Saddles

When it comes to horse saddles, the two key elements are fit and comfort. A saddle that is properly fitted to your horse will afford you both safety and comfort. When you are shopping for a new Wintec saddle, there are a few steps that you should take to ensure a proper fit.

1. Consult with a qualified saddle fitter. Wintec recommends that horseback riders consult with a trained saddle fitter when shopping for a Wintec saddle. This will help to ensure that your new Wintec saddle is properly fitted to your horse. Most saddle retailers will have a qualified saddle fitter on-hand to assist you. If you cannot find a qualified saddle fitter, there are steps that you can take to fit the saddle yourself.


2. Measure your horse's withers. Wintec provides riders with an Easy-Change Gullet Gage. Simply insert the correct gullet into the saddle to properly fit the horse's withers.


3. Check the fit of the gullet. Place the Wintec saddle on the horse without a saddle pad. When the saddle is on the horse, you should see daylight through the saddle from front to back. If the daylight is obscured, your gullet is too low.


4. Ensure proper gullet height. You can measure gullet height using your fingers, simply by placing your fingers under the saddle pommel. You should be able to stack three or four fingers between the horse's withers and the saddle.


5. Test the fit using the horse's sweat pattern. Place a light cloth under the saddle and take the horse for a ride. Remove the saddle and look at the sweat pattern on the cloth. The pattern should be even on both sides. If the sweat pattern is uneven, you will need to adjust the saddle's padding. You can do this by Cair Panel pads as needed in order to properly balance the saddle.