Re: RC: saddle fit HELP

[DESERTRYDR1@aol.com]

In a message dated 9/18/00 6:30:32 AM Pacific Daylight Time, TddWil@aol.com 
writes:

<< So after a few weeks 
 off we did 20 mi yesterday. He had dry spots and a lump on either side of 
the 
 withers. He lost hair on the white spot on the left side of his withers >>

It's possible that with a few weeks off, he changed shape slightly, either 
gaining or losing weight or muscle in that area.  The saddle should be set up 
on the shoulder blades and then slid back into place every time with a hard 
to fit horse.  Even a little bit out of position can cause a different fit.  
Also, try a woolback pad or a Skito pad, as they are more forgiving than a 
felt pad.  It is also possible that a horse who is not butt-high still has a 
downhill back, with the saddle slipping back into a deep pocket behind the 
shoulder.  My friend has a horse like this.  She does use a pad that is 
slightly built up in front.  Also if the saddle is TOO WIDE, it will be 
downhill, and cause more pressure behind the shoulder blade.  I am a fan of 
Wintecs, but finally bought a Solstice for out-of-arena riding, because the 
panels are wider, longer, and softer feeling on the back.  My friend tells me 
anyway.  She got down on all fours and had someone set each saddle on her 
back then sit in it.  I wasn't there wish I had PICS!   And probably in the 
next year or two I will buy another saddle, because nothing ever seems to fit 
right for very long, and if it fits one horse it definitely will not fit her 
daughter!.  Best of luck on the great saddle hunt.   

jeri (who now owns six saddles, and two horses)