Re: Heavyweights and Saddle fit

[hikryrdg <hikryrdg@evansville.net>]

Saddle fit and Heavyweights:  Its been my observation that as I move along
with
a horse in his training, we will go
through about 3 different types of saddles.  Saddle number one is for the
initial training.  The colts are young and fat, the work outs are short,
usually about 10 to 12 miles LSD.  I use a dressage saddle for this type of
work.  As he begins to develop, I switch over to a flat English saddle made in
Germany.  And when he is fit, I have a saddle custom made to fit his back. 
Using this system for Irene has worked very well going into his 4th year.  He
has never had anything but A's on his back.  If you want saddle manufacture
names, just give me a private post.  Jerry Fruth   AERC # 441
>Hi everyone, I wanted to ask some of the heavyweight riders what 
>they're saddle preferences are.  I've moved my two geldings up to 50's 
>this year, and both of them have developed sore shoulders just below 
>the withers--complete with white hair growing in, and are vetting in 
>with B's on back soreness.  
>
>I have used the Big Horn endurance saddle, a well fit close contact 
>english saddle, and an Ortho-flex.  Have used skito, wool, 
>neoprene and  coolback pads.
>
>I come from a dressage/hunt seat riding background, try to ride 
>balanced and light, and have had people watch me ride and don't think 
>my riding is the problem.
>
>Is back soreness a common problem with heavyweight riders?  Is the 
>increased time and distance in the saddle fatiguing muscles to the 
>point where the horse is going to be sore no matter what?
>
>Horse #1  5 yr Polish arab gelding, 15.1H stocky build  2 yrs of LSD
>Horse #2  6 yr Appy/Arab gelding, 15.3H fairly substantial, 1st yr of 
>endurance
>
>I would appreciate any input/suggestions!
>
>Brenda Casebeer
>Molalla, OR
>
>
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