tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83157618972982374832024-03-13T02:58:36.457-04:00Saddle Fitting: The Inside JourneyReal life adventures in saddle fitting at Panther Run Saddlerysaddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.comBlogger150125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-76793515866604300822014-05-31T10:02:00.000-04:002014-05-31T15:34:02.619-04:00Differences of Opinion (Fits With Shims)"My saddle fits every horse I put it on!"<br />
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If there's a phrase that triggers my eye-roll reflex, it's this one. Any guesses as to how many times I hear this? <br />
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Let's just say, "Lots."</div>
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And guess what?</div>
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It doesn't.</div>
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Ok, so maybe my definition of "fit" is a bit different than the average person's. I want a saddle to fit correctly without having to use anything other than a thin cotton pad. No shims, no sheepskins, no foam, no air, no foregirth - just a thin cotton quilt. It can't slide forward or slip back, or wobble from side to side, and it has to allow the horse and rider to do their jobs effortlessly.<br />
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The last time someone told me this, she put a thin cotton quilt on the horse, then added a thick sheepskin pad, then a foam pad, and finally a rear riser pad before placing said miracle saddle on top of it all. She climbed aboard and perched up there, commenting, "I have to be really careful about maintaining my balance, but look how well it's fitting!" <br />
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Frankly, when you get that much padding between you and the horse, "saddle fit" becomes a moot point. It's like a person who's a size 4 trying to make a pair of size 10 pants fit by wearing multiple pairs of long underwear, or someone with a size 8 foot trying to make a size 6 shoe fit by lopping off the toes. While you may be able to make said clothing work, you really can't say it fits. Throwing multiple pads under a saddle isn't making it fit, it's just putting more junk between your saddle and your horse.<br />
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Yes, there are saddles like the Balance and the Parelli that are supposed to be shimmed, and while I understand the theory, I'm still firmly of the opinion that a saddle that truly fits doesn't require the use of shim pads. They talk about focusing on active fit rather than static fit, and I'm on board with that ... but I still think that can be achieved without shims or corrective pads. They talk about the way a horse's back changes when they work, and how a saddle needs to allow for that. Again, I'm all over that ... but it can be done without extra pads/shims.<br />
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Now, I understand that some people need to make a saddle work for more than one horse, and I understand that there are horses that, for various physical reasons, do require shims and/or pads as a band-aid. I'm ok with that. I use shim pads from time to time myself, when horses are in transition; it's a boat load cheaper than repeated flocking adjustments, it's far more convenient, and it can save the integrity of the flock. It's also a good answer if you're trying to fit two similar horses with one saddle, and while it's a good fit for Horse A, it's just a tad too wide in the tree for Horse B. <br />
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Anyone who's read much of this blog will understand that if a saddle truly doesn't fit, there's no pad in the world that will make it fit. That same anyone will also understand that it's my belief that there's no one saddle that can be adjusted to fit every horse perfectly throughout its lifetime. (Even the WOW saddles, which are completely modular and can have the panels and even the tree changed out, fall into this category. If you're switching out the tree and the panels, you're essentially building a completely new saddle, aren't you?) And that Miracle Saddle that fits every horse perfectly only exists in Brigadoon, sitting in the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, with all the honest politicians.<br />
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saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-34342501263236463612014-05-11T12:58:00.000-04:002014-05-11T12:58:27.131-04:00A Word About Widths"My saddle fitter said my horse needs a wide tree. So I got her one, but it sits too low and hits her withers." "My saddle fitter said my horse needs a medium tree. So I got her one, but the saddle is sitting really pommel-high." "My saddle fitter said that because my horse has really big withers, he'll need a narrow tree."<br />
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I hear this sort of thing way more frequently than I'd like. Tree width is the very first thing most people think about when they talk about saddle fitting, yet many people don't understand that it's only one part of the fitting picture. Yes, the correct tree width is important, but tree type, tree shape, panel configuration and billet configuration are equally important, and all but the last have an effect on width. But people always start with, "My horse needs a medium/wide/narrow/extra-wide tree ..."<br />
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So let's break this down. First, whether a tree is given a designation like medium or wide, or whether it's given a centimeter measurement, the measurement is taken pre-construction, on the bare tree. If the tree is measured in centimeters, the measurement is taken between the ends of the tree point. If it's a UK-made saddle, it's given its width designation based on the angle of the pommel arch, as follows:<br />
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<li>Narrow: 75°-84.9°</li>
<li>Medium: 85° - 94.9°</li>
<li>Wide: 95° - 104.9°</li>
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So, all medium tree saddles made in the UK are the same in the width department, right?<br />
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No.<br />
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Why not? <br />
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Reason one: <a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2009/10/from-tree-up-hoop-vs-standard.html">Tree type</a>. If a saddle is a wide standard tree, it's not going to fit the same as a wide hoop tree, since the hoop tree has the extra breadth across the top of the pommel arch. <br />
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Reason two: Head height. A medium width high-head saddle may work beautifully for a higher-withered horse, but will probably perch on a horse with a lower wither.<br />
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Reason three: <a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2010/04/whats-point.html">Tree point length</a>. Long tree points fit less generously than short tree points. In the graphic below, the ends of the "tree points" are the same width apart, but note how much more room there is with a shorter point.<br />
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Reason four: <a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2009/02/going-into-detail-revisited.html">Panel configuration</a>. A wither or full front gusset will reduce a saddle's width. A K or trapezius-type panel, which can be a lifesaver on a horse with divots behind the withers or real "steeple" withers, can make a saddle perch on a propane-tank back. Where the panels are sewn into the pommel arch makes a difference, too; that's why Passier's Freedom panels (which are sewn in lower in the pommel arch than their standard panels) are a good choice for a horse with a lower, muttony wither. (I rode the Great Red Menace in a Passier GG for years; she wasn't quite a hoop tree candidate but was broader than a regular tree would easily accommodate, and this "compromise"- especially in conjunction with the shorter tree points on the Passier - worked well until she got older and widened into a real hoop tree horse.) Horses with bigger withers often need the panels to be tied in higher in the pommel arch (but not so high that they press on the lateral aspect of the spine).</div>
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Reason five: What's in the panels. Foam panels are thinner than wool panels because they have better cushion; an inch of foam offers much more cushion than an inch of wool. Foam panels offer a closer "feel" but don't usually offer much in the way of panel modifications (though some saddle companies, like Beval, are starting to pay more attention in this area). I don't think they're usually a good choice for a horse with a big wither, since the panels are often too minimal to support the saddle in proper balance on a horse with that conformation. These panels can work well on the table-backs, though; Andy Foster's Lauriche saddles are all foam-paneled, and I've seen many of them work beautifully for the propane-tank builds.</div>
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Wool panels, on the other hand, are bulkier, and the amount of flocking in the panels can make a pretty substantial difference in the way a saddle fits. A saddle that's been heavily flocked in the front will not fit as generously in width as a saddle that's been more lightly flocked ...but as we learned in the<a href="http://www.saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2014/04/put-irons-down-location-location.html"> previous blog post</a>, you can't go to the other extreme, either. There must be enough wool in the panels to cushion the horse's back from the tree, but not so much that the panels are distorted into leather-covered sausages.</div>
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So the next time you're saddle shopping, remember that correct tree width is vital, but that these variables will make it almost impossible to say with any assurance, "My horse needs a ______ tree."</div>
saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-78850237186258102142014-04-12T17:11:00.001-04:002014-05-03T08:55:47.537-04:00Put the Irons Down (Location, Location, Location)<div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently, I received a saddle from a lovely woman I had worked with in my previous saddle fitting life. I'd sold her her saddle (long-distance), and adjusted it regularly for her (again, long-distance) whenever it needed attention, and things had always gone well. The last time the saddle had needed attention, however, she didn't know I'd started <a href="http://pantherrunsaddlery.com/">my own business</a>, and wound up working long-distance with another fitter. She sent fitting evaluation photos, and the other fitter said the saddle was sitting pommel-high, but the issue could be resolved by removing flocking from the front. So Customer sends her saddle in and has the work done. When she gets the saddle back and tries it the first time, her mare is reluctant to move forward. Eventually, the mare just flat refuses to move forward when saddled. So Customer finds me via Google, emails, and asks if I'd take a look.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also ask for <a href="http://pantherrunsaddlery.com/?page_id=485">fitting evaluation photos</a>. When they arrive, I see that yes, the saddle's sitting pommel-high ... but it's also positioned too far forward. This conversation ensues:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ME: Are these the same photo you sent to the other fitter?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">CUSTOMER: Yes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">M: Did the other fitter say anything about <i>where</i> the saddle was sitting?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">C: No, she just said the saddle was sitting pommel-high, and that taking some flocking out of the front would fix it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">M: Well, it is sitting pommel-high, but I think it's sitting that way because it's about two fingers' width too far forward.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">C: Oh ... Why didn't the other fitter mention that?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">M: Not sure. Perhaps she didn't notice. But go ahead and send your saddle and a template. I'm sure I can straighten things out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, let me pause to say that taking flocking out of a saddle is a miserable bitch of a job, not one I enjoy in the least and one I will run uphill to avoid unless there's no other recourse. To say that it's hard to do well is a huge understatement. Fortunately, it's rare that I have to do it unless the saddle is grossly overflocked, and in that case, a total strip-flock is usually needed (and in that case, I don't mind removing flocking at all). Sometimes taking a whisker of wool out can improve things, but if a saddle's sitting pommel-high (at least, if it's doing so when the saddle's in the right spot), I've found that it's rarely the correct fix. And taking flocking out when the wool has compacted tightly isn't what I'd call a good idea, as it's going to be hard to remove wool without getting into the bedding layer (the one closest to your horse, which shouldn't be disturbed when adjusting the flock). Finally, doing so on a serge-paneled saddle, which will allow every lump, bump, divot and deviation to be felt minutely ... well, that's really, REALLY not a good idea.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So the saddle arrives, I prop it in my lap and do the ritual-habitual touchy-feelie of the panels. There are huge divots in the panels that start at the tree points and go back past the stirrup bars; the other fitter must have removed WADS of flock. So much has been removed that I can literally (and I do mean "literally") feel the tree through the panels. What little flocking is left in the area is balled up and lumpy - no WONDER the poor mare didn't want to move! If I can feel the tree, what must it have been like for her with her rider up?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I cannot believe that anyone who calls themselves a fitter would think this was a good job or the right solution. I am flabbergasted. I am gobsmacked. I am <i>mad</i>. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I compare the tree width to the template that Customer sent, and they match up perfectly. So the whole "pommel high" thing wasn't about saddle<i> </i><i>fit - </i>it was about saddle <i>position.</i> One of the most basic things a fitter should check. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I put the saddle on my bench and head for the computer, being very raptor-y and snarling and swearing a blue streak about people who have no business working on saddles and how I hope they one day have to carry a backpack full of rocks and razor blades on a 30 mile forced march, uphill both ways, on the hottest day of the year, barefoot, in snow up to their hips; how they give saddle fitters in general and long-distance fitters in particular an undeserved collective black eye, and how they can't go out of business quickly enough to suit me. Then, thinking perhaps I should decompress and regain my ability to be diplomatic (to "channel Edie", as </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Owl-and-the-Rose-Distance-Saddles/561212327240558" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nancy Okun </a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and I call it) before contacting the customer, I do an about-face and spend some time kicking and punching my stand-up bag. Venting such wrath on </span><a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2011/05/saddle-fitting-central.html" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mister Squishy</a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> would have undoubtedly led to his demise, given his elderly and fragile state.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Feeling much more in control (and considerably winded; my stamina still isn't back to pre-flu levels), I let Customer know about the state of the saddle, and tell her that a strip-flock may be in the cards. Customer feels really bad; she was trying to do the right thing by her horse and is now worried she's hurt her horse and that her saddle may be beyond fixing. I assure her that her saddle can be fixed, please don't worry; if I can avoid doing a strip-flock, I will, and I'll let her know about it asap.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I spend a while longer poking at the panels and cursing. Part of me thinks a strip-flock is the way to go; the saddle's about 6 years old and it would just flat be easier to start over than to try to fill in those holes. But Customer had to pay a fairly steep price to have this done to her saddle, so I'd like to at least be able to spare her as much financial outlay as possible. But man, that's an unholy, wicked mess ... Yet the rest of the flocking is still in good shape, so it would be a shame to have to pull it all out ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the end, I decide to see if I can fix it. If I fail, I can always fall back on the strip flock. So I start fiddling and adding wool and using a long needle to go into the panels through the serge and break up lumps. After about 15 minutes, I'm pleased (and frankly, pretty surprised) to find that one panel is back in good shape, so I start on the other. More fiddling, more poking with the needle, a little massaging and fluffing, and the second panel is feeling way better. In all, I spent better than half an hour on the saddle (a regular flocking adjustment rarely takes more than 10 minutes). I do a few final adjustments and decided to let the wool "rest" overnight, and check it again in the morning to be sure I'm still happy with the job. I am, so the saddle gets boxed up and shipped back to Customer, along with a reminder about proper saddle position.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today, I received this email from Customer:</span></div>
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"<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">just had to tell you that I went for lesson this past Thursday. it was first time i had used my saddle since getting it back......lots of rain. We used a new bit and my trainer was so amazed at how happy and light Montana was. For me it is like riding a new horse! You must realize, the last time I put this saddle on Montana, she refused to move ( smart horse). she was a very happy camper!!! I am so grateful for your level of expertise,Kitt you helped me get my horse back!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And that, my friends, is why I love this job. To be able to turn something like that around for a horse and rider ... well, I can't think of much that's more satisfying. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So how do you know where your saddle should sit? The tree point should be about 3 fingers' width behind the rear edge of the scapulae. With most dressage saddles, this means that the front of the flap will be about one finger's width behind the rear edge of the scapulae. With jump or ap saddles, it can be a little harder to tell. One way to judge is to put the saddle way far forward on the withers and slide it slowly back; it will "stop" at the proper spot. Another way is to find the tree point and mark the spot on the outer flap directly over it with a dab of leather conditioner, and mark the area on your horse's mane that's directly above the three-fingers-behind-the-back-of-the-scapulae spot with a piece of tape or a chalk mark. Position the saddle so the two are aligned. If your saddle won't stay there, or if placing it there makes the rear of the saddle extend past T18, you need to look further into saddle fit.</span></div>
saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-63309808719970629692014-03-30T15:19:00.003-04:002014-03-30T15:26:36.901-04:00Rolex and Other Updates<u>ROLEX</u><br />
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Guess who's been asked to go to <a href="https://www.rk3de.org/">Rolex</a>?<br />
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Yup. Me. WOOT! <br />
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Nikki Newcombe asked me if I'd be interested in coming down to help out at the <a href="http://www.bliss-of-london.com/">Bliss of London</a> / <a href="http://www.loxleysaddles.com/">Loxley Saddles</a> booth, and since I've never been to Rolex, I jumped at the chance. I'll be arriving on Friday, and will be there all weekend, and I'm way, WAY excited about it! If you're going to be there, please stop by and say hello.<br />
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<u>UPDATE</u><br />
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In late January, I came down with what I thought was the garden-variety flu. However, after a week and a half of running a fever, having chills and feeling as though I'd been beaten with a club, I developed the worst respiratory sickness I've ever had, and - the rotting cherry on top the whole miserable sundae - I lost my voice for over a month. Long story short, I was so sick I couldn't even sit in front of the computer for more than 3 weeks, so I'm playing catch-up like a mad bastard and some of my plans have fallen flat. Unfortunately, one of those plans was the saddle fitting clinic I'd hoped to do April 11-13 this year. I'm rescheduling it for later in the year - probably late summer or early fall, depending on availability of the venue - and will update you all as plans develop. If anyone has a preferred range of dates, please let me know, and I'll see what I can do to accommodate.<br />
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<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-81675467196299249712014-01-06T16:20:00.000-05:002014-01-06T16:20:39.922-05:00Fitting Assessment Photos and Conformation Shots (Throw Me a Bone)When I'm doing long-distance fitting, I require quite a bit of information from you, my customers. Since I can't get my hands on the horse and saddle, you have to provide a lot of input and answer dozens of questions. You also have to provide clear, informative photos so I can see the horse I'm trying to fit, the way the saddle fits the horse and the way the saddle fits the rider.<div>
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However, it's come to my attention that there without being able to see <i>exactly</i> the photos I require, a lot is left open to interpretation, and I sometimes get some fairly useless (though sometimes quite interesting) photos. So in an effort to provide clear, concise guidelines, here are the photos I require ... and a sampling of the photos I don't.</div>
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First, a conformation shot of your horse. All I need to see is the whole horse, weight on all 4 legs, on level ground, head in a normal, relaxed position (no Drama Llama photos, please!) against a fairly plain, contrasting background (no fleabitten greys against dirty snowbanks, and no dark bays against the opening of the run-in shed).</div>
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Here are some examples of useful conformation shots:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dQmO_AWclzc/UssPp9tXznI/AAAAAAAABRY/uyMxUOwd5oA/s1600/confo3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dQmO_AWclzc/UssPp9tXznI/AAAAAAAABRY/uyMxUOwd5oA/s1600/confo3.jpg" height="341" width="400" /></a></div>
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If I'm assessing saddle fit, I also need a conformation shot of your horse, but with the saddle on:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MAhCGJbs25k/UssQ2npyJ5I/AAAAAAAABRo/nZspiPtqvek/s1600/Bob+conformation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MAhCGJbs25k/UssQ2npyJ5I/AAAAAAAABRo/nZspiPtqvek/s1600/Bob+conformation.jpg" height="303" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_waK935TARY/UssRiAearTI/AAAAAAAABRw/ASLJSUT4ljw/s1600/reilley+confo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_waK935TARY/UssRiAearTI/AAAAAAAABRw/ASLJSUT4ljw/s1600/reilley+confo.jpg" height="318" width="400" /></a></div>
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And a photo of the tree point in relation to your horse's back:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCBYdPvzYII/UssRwwiLkXI/AAAAAAAABR4/MnPJLJJuzY8/s1600/Albion+tree+point+angle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCBYdPvzYII/UssRwwiLkXI/AAAAAAAABR4/MnPJLJJuzY8/s1600/Albion+tree+point+angle.jpg" height="400" width="267" /></a></div>
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I'll also need to see the same photos, but with the rider up:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DNmz_yPZDWE/UssSF2wb_xI/AAAAAAAABSI/Xxhya1h-Exc/s1600/fit+assess+with+rider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DNmz_yPZDWE/UssSF2wb_xI/AAAAAAAABSI/Xxhya1h-Exc/s1600/fit+assess+with+rider.jpg" height="343" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oF9lqCLg6RQ/UssSAdN3unI/AAAAAAAABSA/fofxe_Z6G5Q/s1600/tree+point+w+rider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oF9lqCLg6RQ/UssSAdN3unI/AAAAAAAABSA/fofxe_Z6G5Q/s1600/tree+point+w+rider.jpg" height="400" width="267" /></a></div>
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Pretty easy. Remember that it's best to take photos outside when possible, and if the day is overcast, even better - you won't have to worry about shadows obscuring some vital bit of information. Choose a time when your horse won't be fretting about being fed or being turned out, and when you aren't stressing about getting to work on time or getting home to help the kids with homework. If they aren't exact matches, don't worry - I can probably get the info I need from them as long as you come pretty close.</div>
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Now, here are some photos that are of absolutely no help whatsoever. Please don't send photos like these. Please, just ... don't.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZRwfrUy4Lo/UssSb0bel9I/AAAAAAAABSQ/7i2k56QdDxw/s1600/crap1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZRwfrUy4Lo/UssSb0bel9I/AAAAAAAABSQ/7i2k56QdDxw/s1600/crap1.jpg" height="247" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's a horse's back. That's about all I can tell.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BzH7FE88JPI/UssVrYhEtzI/AAAAAAAABSc/DBLFAe70vyY/s1600/crap2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BzH7FE88JPI/UssVrYhEtzI/AAAAAAAABSc/DBLFAe70vyY/s1600/crap2.jpg" height="188" width="400" /></a></div>
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"Against a contrasting background" also means no dark bays, blacks or liver chestnuts in dark indoor arenas.</div>
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Is this horse standing downhill, is the camera tilted, or is s/he very croup-high?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TbLW66J01eg/UssY3c51FiI/AAAAAAAABS4/lfYpqxFI2qc/s1600/drama+llama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TbLW66J01eg/UssY3c51FiI/AAAAAAAABS4/lfYpqxFI2qc/s1600/drama+llama.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Red Menace in her "Drama Llama" guise, standing hip-shot, making her back look even more dropped than it really is.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PCmhZC70ycE/UssZaEXhaiI/AAAAAAAABTA/8CCDT02c4YY/s1600/pommel+clearance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PCmhZC70ycE/UssZaEXhaiI/AAAAAAAABTA/8CCDT02c4YY/s1600/pommel+clearance.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
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The pommel clears the withers, but since I can't see the tree point in relation to the horse's back, I can't tell whether the tree width is correct or not.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZu1Lyr-Enw/UssawmYE0xI/AAAAAAAABTM/VEO6miekLIE/s1600/too+dark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZu1Lyr-Enw/UssawmYE0xI/AAAAAAAABTM/VEO6miekLIE/s1600/too+dark.jpg" height="400" width="267" /></a></div>
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It's a saddle. On a horse. With a white pad under it. That's all I got.</div>
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Remember, all you have to do is come close. If you send me the info I need, the saddle fitting process will be a lot less time consuming, expensive and frustrating. And as an added bonus, your photo will never be featured in a rogue's gallery like this!</div>
saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-25909325889674222152013-12-24T11:36:00.003-05:002013-12-24T11:36:51.117-05:00The First Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eEIPIU6u-zU/Urm3aJRhQMI/AAAAAAAABRI/6ym9rnZ6jyI/s1600/tshirt+design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eEIPIU6u-zU/Urm3aJRhQMI/AAAAAAAABRI/6ym9rnZ6jyI/s320/tshirt+design.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well, I'm pleased to report that Panther Run Saddlery has finished its first year in pretty damn good trim. In spite of a few nay-sayers, and a few who did their best to throw a monkey wrench into the gears (as Ma used to say), things have gone far more smoothly than I expected, and I have a viable business on my hands. This is thanks to a huge amount of support from some pretty amazing people: friends and family, colleagues and fellow fitters, my Constant Readers, saddle companies, and - especially - my customers. You all have kept me focused and moving in the right direction, and you've proved that continuing to do business "The Edie Way" is the right path to follow. "Thank you" seems inadequate, but it's all I can say.<br />
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So here's wishing you all the peace that this season is supposed to bring, joyful holidays (whatever you celebrate), and hoping your New Year is as good as 2013 was for me. Looking forward to an even better and busier 2014. Onward and upward!<br />
<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-64537801761464688312013-11-22T13:12:00.000-05:002013-11-22T23:39:19.496-05:00Having a Fit: Hoop Tree Vs. Standard TreeAs often happens in my life, things seem to come up in bunches. The latest "bunch" has been Broad Horses and the Saddles That Fit Them (or Don't). I've gotten several templates lately that look as though someone traced a propane tank. My last fitting jaunt included 5 horses at 2 different barns who also fit the "propane tank" profile. And just recently, I was asked by the <a href="http://thearabiansporthorse.com/">The Arabian Sport Horse</a> magazine to expand on an article I'd written for their <a href="http://issuu.com/thearabiansporthorse/docs/apr-may-13?e=6917605/1979780">April/May 2013 issue</a> on the particular challenges of fitting the Arab sport horse. Since I was given free rein as far as subject matter, I latched onto hoop trees, since they seem (to my great surprise) to be little known and even less understood. Since I'm WAY overdue for a new blog post, I thought I'd do a "warm-up" post to get ready to write the article.<br />
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If you've read my blog much, you're probably pretty familiar with the hoop (aka Freedom head, Dome, FWB) tree. If you're not familiar with that type of tree, you can read <a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2009/10/from-tree-up-hoop-vs-standard.html">this post</a> to get the basics about them. They're designed to "sit down" on a wide back and a lower, broad wither. On horses with that conformation, a standard tree with an "A" shaped head will perch and be laterally unstable, even if it's the right width. As a result of this low-profile fit, one of the comments I often hear about hoop trees from fitters who aren't familiar with them is, "It doesn't fit. It sits too low in front - there's not enough clearance; I can only get one finger in under the pommel when the rider's up."<br />
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Here's a shot of a well-fitting standard tree (note that the angle of the tree point and the angle of the horse's back - both marked in yellow - are pretty much parallel): <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OePEqpMt63M/Uo-al5pJ9wI/AAAAAAAABQg/lff9Snod3Ew/s1600/standard+tree+point+angles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OePEqpMt63M/Uo-al5pJ9wI/AAAAAAAABQg/lff9Snod3Ew/s320/standard+tree+point+angles.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
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And another:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4NUTvoDaOw/Uo-a0Vj-LqI/AAAAAAAABQo/pXOW7eG7Ywo/s1600/standard+tree+point+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4NUTvoDaOw/Uo-a0Vj-LqI/AAAAAAAABQo/pXOW7eG7Ywo/s320/standard+tree+point+2.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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There's a good amount of clearance between the underside of the pommel arch and the horse's withers - probably close to the "textbook" 3 fingers' width.</div>
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Now, let's look at a hoop tree:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NXsvevLW9Us/SSrzEIUXD0I/AAAAAAAAAAo/OfxsHjyKy4s/s1600/tree+points+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NXsvevLW9Us/SSrzEIUXD0I/AAAAAAAAAAo/OfxsHjyKy4s/s320/tree+points+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And one with the rider up:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9vOz3elHC8/Uo-cARCHbgI/AAAAAAAABQ4/GoCZl8VFsbE/s1600/Tess+with+new+saddle+003+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9vOz3elHC8/Uo-cARCHbgI/AAAAAAAABQ4/GoCZl8VFsbE/s320/Tess+with+new+saddle+003+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Quite a lot less clearance, right? Note that the tree point angles are parallel to the horse's back, and note that the underside of the pommel arch is clearing the withers. Hoop tree saddles are <i>supposed</i> to fit this way. When fitting a hoop tree, we use the term "adequate" clearance - this means that the balance of the saddle is correct, and that at no time does the saddle come in contact with the withers/spine. <br />
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The fitting basics are still the same, no matter what tree type the horse requires. You want <a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2008/11/heavy-seven.html">The Heavy Seven</a> (plus the <a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/search?q=billets">billet configuration</a>) to check out ... you just have a little less room under the pommel arch.<br />
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I know it may be unfamiliar to some folks, but it's ok. Honest.<br />
<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-59830990232559334022013-10-24T13:08:00.002-04:002013-10-24T13:08:44.403-04:00Saddle Fitting Course - What We'll Cover<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thought you all might be interested to see a rough outline of what will be covered in the saddle fitting course April 11-13, 2014. There will be "classroom" theory as well as hands-on work, so come prepared with horse-friendly clothes and shoes (and be prepared for mud ... or snow ... or hot, sunny weather ... or all at the same time; you never know what a Vermont April will bring). If there's anything you'd like me to cover that isn't listed here, please let me know.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Basic overview: why saddle fitting is being noticed, why it’s important. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two schools of thought:</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">UK/SMS vs.
“Continental”/Forward Balance.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Why each works … or doesn’t.</span><br />
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>What we try to accomplish when fitting a saddle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2) Identify types and
subtypes of English saddles:<span style="font-size: small;"> cc
(equitation, jump, xc), dressage, ap, trail/endurance<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Uses and focus of each</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fit
for the rider; how seat depth, blocks, flap length/set affect fit and purpose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3) Identify parts of
the saddles<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4) Identify types of
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5) Identify types of
trees (synthetic, spring, hoop/freedom head); purpose of the tree<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6) Identify types of
flocking, pros and cons of each.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7) Parts of the
horse; identify major muscle groups <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8) <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Why correct fit is important. See #1.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How conformation effects fit. Different conformation challenges (big withers, croup-high, broad back, etc.) and which fitting options work best for each. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9) </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Where the saddle should sit, why proper placement is important.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10) Discuss how to
check for back soreness; basics of how to evaluate movement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[endif]-->Checking static
saddle fit – 7 Points including billet placement. Cover finding rear edge of scapula and T18.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[endif]-->Checking active fit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-87078288789793811552013-10-17T11:46:00.000-04:002013-10-17T13:12:44.514-04:00April 11-13: Saddle Fitting CourseWell, I've certainly been threatening long enough (since 2012, according to <a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2012/02/saddle-fitting-course.html">this</a>), and it's finally come to fruition (WOOT!!). April 11-13, 2014, I'll be teaching the long-promised saddle fitting course. It will be held at the Pullman Farm (former location of the shop where I used to work), 969 Trumbull Hill Rd. in Shaftsbury, VT. It will start with a meet-and-greet and course overview on Friday evening (times TBA), and will run from 9:30-4 (approximate) on Saturday and Sunday. The course will cover all aspects of English saddle fitting including saddle types, foam vs. wool, tree types, panel modifications and the conformations they suit, equine anatomy and gait analysis as well as fit for the rider. The course will NOT teach repairs and flocking adjustments. Cost is $550.00, which includes lunch/snacks, tools for taking a template and all course materials. The course is limited to 6 people, and there is <i>a <b>non-refundable deposit </b>of $200 required by Jan 30, 2014 to hold your spot</i>. There will also be an "on deck" list in case someone drops out. There are numerous affordable lodging and dining options within 10 miles of the farm. If interested, please email me at pantherrunsaddlery@yahoo.com. Looking forward to this!saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-44046110877625375102013-09-02T11:45:00.000-04:002013-09-02T11:45:53.258-04:00All You Have to Do is AskOne of the nicest perks of being a saddle fitter is helping horses and riders find the saddle that works for them. Another great perk is having a network of other fitters and saddlers with whom to collaborate, exchange ideas and geek on about saddles for hours. That sort of support and mutual respect is a rare and wonderful thing; I really enjoy being able to ask questions of Wiser Heads, and in return offer whatever info I can.<br />
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In the past, I've had other fitters ask to use info and photos from my blog in projects they were doing, and I've always been happy to share, and frankly pretty pumped that folks found my info share-worthy. I had lots of great mentoring when I began my saddle fitting journey, and I still have great mentors - so I like the idea of being able to pay it back (or forward). And besides, it's just the kind and right thing to do.<br />
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So when it's brought to my attention that people are lifting stuff (and sometimes lifting a LOT of stuff) from my blog without asking, I start leaning toward the bitey side of my personality. Even if they give me credit, using stuff <i><b>without permission</b></i> really isn't legal, and it's also downright rude (which to my mind is the real offense). Again, I'll mention the little tag (which I know no one ever reads) at the bottom of the blog that says, "<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #3b4e13; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: center;">All content copyright Kitt Hazelton / Panther Run. Use and reproduction by permission only."</span> </span><br />
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Perhaps I'm being very naive here. I know that putting stuff up on the Internet is the equivalent of throwing your valuables on the front lawn and thinking everyone will be honorable and not take anything. But my luck's been pretty good so far, and I'd like to think that things can continue that way. So if you want to use any of the content on this blog, just ask - that's all you have to do. I won't growl or bite or refuse - as I said, I like knowing that people find my blog useful. But lift stuff without permission? You'll see this side of me:<br />
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<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-90063308702289856962013-07-28T23:01:00.002-04:002013-07-28T23:01:35.842-04:00Video Tutorial: How to Take a Template of Your Horse's Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The "how to take a template" video is done and up for public viewing! Huge freakin' kudos to: 1) My husband Hasso for his professional guidance in piecing this project together, for shooting and editing it, and for his ability to psychically interpret my harum-scarum gesticulating, barking, hooting, and random input. 2) To Jessica van Eyck of <a href="http://www.northshirefarm.com/">Northshire Farm</a> and her horse Wanted for all their help, and for providing such a lovely location for shooting. I cannot adequately express my thanks. You folks freakin' rock.</div>
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saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-41129951298684404112013-07-20T17:03:00.000-04:002013-07-20T17:03:02.427-04:00Fitting from Afar<span class="bqQuoteLink" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 26px;"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/h/henryford119707.html" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 153) !important; text-decoration: none;" title="view quote">As we advance in life we learn the limits of our abilities.</a></span><br style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;" /><span class="bodybold" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/h/henry_ford.html" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 153) !important; text-decoration: none;" title="view author">Henry Ford</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><br />
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Today's post is brought to you by yet another bulletin board comment ...<br />
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This time, I ran into Someone, who was sharing her sad tale of a less-than-optimal experience with long-distance saddle fitting. Since the fitter closest to her was about 4 hours away, Someone opted to try working with a fitter long-distance. It turned out that Someone's horse had some challenges that required a few fitting modifications. So, Someone ordered a bench-made saddle ... but the fitter with whom she was working failed to recommend a fitting option that the horse really needed. As a result, the fit wasn't quite right, the saddle required shimming to be usable, and since it was a "special" order, the fitter wouldn't take it back. A bad situation, and frankly, one that would probably leave a pretty stinkin' bad taste in my mouth, too. <br />
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(NOTE TO FITTERS: Yes, we ALL make mistakes and miss stuff. I've screwed up [and I'm sure I will do so again in the future], and all of the fitters I know have screwed up, and any fitter who says they haven't screwed up is either: a) lying, b) delusional, c) very, very new to this business or d) all of the above. But <i style="font-weight: bold;">damn</i>, people, if it's <i>your</i> mistake, put on the Big Person Pants and take your medicine. Make things right. I'd be losing sleep if Someone was one of my customers.)<br />
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Inasmuch as I cringe to the very bottom of my saddle-fitting soul whenever I hear about nightmares like this (and I hear them far more often than I'd like), I applaud Someone for having the guts to speak out (and congratulate her for doing so with far more civility and tact than I'd have been able to muster, though that's damning her with faint praise); I think it's vital that these experiences are put up for public viewing. It can stand as a cautionary tale to other folks, and hopefully keep them from going through the same thing. <br />
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But there's another side to this. As I said earlier, this sort of thing makes me cringe - for several reasons. <br />
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1) I don't like hearing that people have bad saddle experiences, period. It just doesn't have to be that way.<br />
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2) Long distance fitting <i><b>can</b></i> be done successfully, and it <i><b>can</b></i> be a positive experience. <br />
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3) This is precisely the sort of issue than makes it tough for folks to believe in fitters who <i style="font-weight: bold;">can</i> do long-distance fitting successfully. Fitters like <a href="http://www.equestrianimports.com/shop/">Ann Forrest</a> ... fitters like <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Owl-and-the-Rose-Distance-Tack/430480760364933?fref=ts">Nancy Okun</a> ... and yes, dammit, fitters like me.<br />
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It takes <i style="font-weight: bold;">years</i> to become really good at saddle fitting, and even longer to become good at doing it long-distance ... <i>and not everyone can become good at it. </i>I know a lot of excellent hands-on fitters, but only a few who have the ability to do long-distance work. In addition to all the things you need to know for hands-on work, there's a litany of additional skills you need in order to excel at long-distance fitting. You must be able to read a template and look at photos and listen to a customer's needs and likes and put it together successfully. You have to be able to evaluate a horse's conformation and level of training and make some guesstimates about the way s/he will move and carry him/herself. You have to be able to eyeball a rider and decide what fitting options <i style="font-weight: bold;">they </i>may require. You have to ask the right questions and request the right information from the customer. You also have to have an eye for it, a knack, a certain spatial sense - and that's not something everyone has. <br />
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You customers have a truck load of responsibilities as well, and a long-distance fitter needs to let you know what they are and if you're getting them right. First and foremost, you have to provide us with an <i style="font-weight: bold;">accurate, current </i>template of your horse's back and a clear, up-to-date conformation shot. If the info you send isn't accurate or is outdated, we can't make accurate recommendations. And if a long-distance fitter suspects your info may not be quite spot-on, you'll be asked to do it again. You have to be honest about your likes and dislikes, your level of expertise and your horse's level of training, any physical issues either you or your horse may have, and what your plans are for the future. You have to spill your height, weight and inseam measurement. And since we can't get our hands on your horse and saddle, you'll have to provide us with what may seem like an unending stream of photos, detailed information and feedback and answer about a hundred and seventy bazillion questions. <br />
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To say that it's involved, time consuming and exacting would be an understatement. Often, the first saddle I send won't be "the one" - I'd say that I nail it on the first saddle maybe 30% of the time, and that's only if I'm lucky enough to have exactly the right saddle in my shop. Often, you ride in one or two saddles I have on hand, determine the tweaks and changes it may need, and I get it for you in a different width or seat size or with a different panel configuration. <br />
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So ... is it tough to find a fitter who's good at long-distance work? Yes - there aren't many of us. Is it less time consuming to have a hands-on fitting done than to work long-distance? Almost certainly. Is it less expensive? Sometimes; shipping saddles can add up quickly, but if your template and other info are accurate, it shouldn't take many trials to find what you need. Is it less work on your part? Oh, yes. Is it ultimately more successful? No ... <i>if </i>you're working with someone who's good at it.<br />
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And by the way, in an effort to help folks with the template-taking part of this endeavor, I'll have an instructional video on "How to Take a Back Template" up on the <a href="http://pantherrunsaddlery.com/">Panther Run Saddlery</a> website as soon as my husband finishes editing it. He's saying it should be done within the next 2 weeks. Fingers crossed ...<br />
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saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-26833139692971418542013-04-14T19:29:00.001-04:002013-07-20T10:38:12.447-04:00Bye-Bye, UDBBCruised by the Ultimate Dressage bulletin board, and saw this message: <br />
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"This site is being closed under current management. It has been a long run, and there where some good times, but my mind and heart are no longer in this effort. I have not found an easy exit strategy over the years, so it will just come to shutting down, un-announced.<br />
"If you would like to inquire about purchasing the domain name and/or forums as they existed on 4/13/2013 please contact directly.<br />
"Mark Susol, msusol@ultimatecreativemedia.com"<br />
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Wow. I'm completely floored. Information, misinformation and speculation about the why and wherefore behind this are rife and easily found all over the Internet, but whatever the cause, I just find it a sad passing. The UDBB was one of the first ways in which I became known in my own right rather than just as the shop's fitter; it introduced me to some very fine fellow fitters and more than a few customers, and helped me get the news out about my own business.<br />
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It would be nice if someone purchased the domain name and forums and continued with them. But Mark Susol really helped me out through the UDBB (though he probably didn't know), and I really appreciate it. I hope things turn out well for him, and that someone can help him out the way he helped me. <br />
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LONG-OVERDUE UPDATE: I'm thrilled to say that the UDBB was resurrected shortly after it was closed. I don't know all the ins and outs, but to whomever stepped in and took over, THANK YOU. <br />
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<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-91393967202087811202013-04-12T13:44:00.002-04:002013-04-14T12:59:20.731-04:00Closing and Opening: Contact Info<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">“The difference between school and life? In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson.” - Tom Bodett</span></div>
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As many of you already know, I've had to open new email accounts due to some rather serious security issues with the old ones. This has caused a lot more work than I was anticipating, and has made me all Bitey-Raptor-ish most of the time ... but I have everything in order at last. So now it's time to close the old accounts, shake off the old crap and move on. I've been hesitating, because some people are still contacting me that way, and I don't want to miss anyone's correspondence. But I've settled on a termination date: April 30. If you need to contact me, the new email address is pantherrunsaddlery@yahoo.com. You can also reach me through this blog, or through the <a href="http://www.pantherrunsaddlery.com/">Panther Run Saddlery</a> web site.<br />
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saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-81130683434937393112013-02-02T16:35:00.001-05:002013-02-02T16:35:06.670-05:00Whose Blog is it, Anyway?<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the hustle of trying to get Panther Run Saddlery organized, I haven't had time to add to (or even stop by and check on) this blog ... and I find I really miss it. So I made some time today to check my stats, which I haven't done in weeks. When I went to one of the referring sites, I found a very nice blog and a post extolling (and rightly so) the many virtues of Black Country saddles. There was also a very nice bit about Trumbull Mtn. and "their" blog, <i>Saddle Fitting: the Inside Journey.</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This isn't the first time I've encountered that misunderstanding, and in the past, I've usually let it slide. But now that I'm no longer employed there or affiliated/associated with the shop in any way, "I want to make one thing perfectly clear:" this is <b><i>not their blog</i></b>. It's mine. <span style="color: #3b4e13;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">"All content copyright Kitt Hazelton / Panther Run." It's right there in the footer (which I do know that few people ever read, but ...). So I hope this will clarify things once and for all. My blog. Mineminemineminemine.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3b4e13;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Ok, now that I'm done barking and peeing on trees and fence posts and scratching up the ground, let's talk about what's going on now. I have replaced the bulk of my important saddle work tools (there are a few left to buy, but the meat-and-potatoes tools are here). I have Albion saddles. I have Duett saddles. I have a couple Bliss of London saddles, and am their dealer for the northern New England area. Loxley saddles are on order, and I'm expecting them sometime around Valentine's Day. I'm accepting selected used saddles for consignment. I have saddles in for repairs, and I have customers sending me templates (some of them are customers from my days at the shop, and I can't adequately express how much their loyalty and faith in me means). I just had another article on saddle fitting published in <i>TrailBlazer</i> magazine, and I have to finish an article on saddle fitting for the Arabian sport horse for <a href="http://www.thearabiansporthorse.com/">www.thearabiansporthorse.com</a>. I have the budding <a href="http://www.pantherrunsaddlery.com/">Panther Run Saddlery</a> web site in the competent hands of my "web guy" (we had to move the hosting site and do some technical stuff that I'm just not confident about or capable of doing myself). I'm busy, and things are moving ahead and looking pretty promising. It's a crazy time, and not a particularly easy time ... but from what I understand, that's pretty much the norm for the situation. Being a one-woman show is way different from the way I worked for 14 years, and sometimes I think I'm crazy to be doing this at my age ... but the thought of <i>not</i> doing it isn't something I can contemplate. So onward and upward.</span></span></span></div>
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saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-35654010367203378542012-11-19T09:07:00.001-05:002012-11-19T09:07:41.177-05:00Panther Run Saddlery (Coming Soon)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's a work in progress (the site isn't live yet, but I'll let you know as soon as it's up). I'll be offering the same services as before: long distance fitting using templates and photos, barn calls, sales, consulting, and reflocks/repairs. I'll have mostly new saddles at first, though I'll be doing consignments as well. In the meantime, please feel free to "like" <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Panther-Run-Saddlery/255488394573867">Panther Run Saddlery</a> on FaceBook!<br />
<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-42128490117984481962012-11-11T13:45:00.000-05:002018-07-11T05:26:18.996-04:00The More Things Change ...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shop at the Pullman Family Farm, summer 2012</td></tr>
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This year has brought some pretty dramatic changes to my life. This summer, we had to put our dear old Tanka dog down due to the infirmities of old age. Then, Edie passed away on Sept. 20, and my brother-in-law Chris passed away 15 days later - oddly, from the very same cancer Edie had. And on Oct. 26th, I learned that as of November 30, my time with the shop will be over.<br />
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The owners have decided to move the physical location of the shop closer to their home - understandable, since their commute is about 60 miles one-way. However, the new location they've chosen puts the shop 60 miles away from me<i>. </i>That would mean that my 40 mile round-trip commute would morph into a 120 mile round-trip commute ... and that ain't gonna happen. Not for me, and sadly, not for my co-worker Nancy Okun, either - her commute would actually be 12 miles longer than mine. So as of 5 pm on Nov. 30, after roughly 14 years with the shop, it's officially good-bye.<br />
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Change is unsettling, no question - but after the first terrifying, stomach-dropping shock, it often turns out the be just the kick in the ass that was needed. Since Edie sold the shop in 2009, things have changed significantly; I've become increasingly restless, and have spent more and more time contemplating the possibility of "going independent" and running my own business ... and if this isn't the universe telling me that now's the time to do just that, I miss my guess. <br />
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In the years I worked with Edie, I learned about saddle fitting, repair and design ... and I also learned her particular business philosophies, practices and ideals, those specific ingredients that made a little tack shop up over the indoor arena 3 miles off the main road in a town of less than 4,000 people <i>the</i> go-to place for saddles and fitting. So I'd say that I have a very successful business model to use. I've also met some outstanding folks in the saddle business who've helped and taught me: Nikki Newcombe, Ann Forrest, Nancy Temple, Patty Barnett, Rob Cullen, John, Gemma and Cassie Hartley, Frank Baines, Victoria Coleman, Mike Scott, Brita Rizzi and Louise Palmer, to name just a very few, and since they've heard the news, they've been even more kind and supportive. And since the change has become public knowledge in the saddle world, Nancy and I have had three people very kindly approach us with offers to rep saddles, and we're going to take them all on. I'll still be taking saddles to barns and traveling to do adjustments; I'll also be working long-distance with templates and photos, <i>and I'll still be writing this blog, </i>same as ever. I'll also be setting up my own web site, which will have fitting info and - new feature - videos. In deference to the fact that I need a regular income, I will have to find a "real" job, at least for a while, but my focus will be on getting back into saddles full-time as soon as possible. I truly love doing this, and don't see any reason I should quit.saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-69984590265185220462012-10-29T09:01:00.000-04:002012-10-29T09:01:16.207-04:00Crazy Little Thing Called "Sandy"In case any of you have spent the last few days away from any sort of news or social media, the northeastern US is supposed to get hit with Hurricane / Tropical Storm Sandy. The forecast says it will come in from the east, make landfall around New Jersey later today, and run into a winter storm coming in from the west, creating a "Frankenstorm" that could leave the entire northeastern US battered. Although the main part of the storm isn't supposed to hit Vermont (or even come very close), this is a very big storm - by some accounts, more than 900 miles across - and we're supposed to get high winds, heavy rain and probable power outages. The wind's beginning to pick up as I write this, and the sky was an eerily beautiful pink/purple at dawn:<br />
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While this storm isn't supposed to create anywhere near the havoc that Irene did last year (though we escaped that totally unscathed, except for an unexpected day off from work due to the roads being flooded), it's still best to be prepared, especially since there's a horse involved.<br />
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This entails things like stockpiling about 4 days' worth of water in the horse barn (we have ample water available from the brook below the house, but it's a serious undertaking to get jerry cans up 100' of very steep incline). We also made sure we have enough hay and grain, and double-checked the fence line. While flooding isn't a huge concern - we're at roughly 1500' here - the horse barn is at the foot of a hill, and has been known to have a little stream running through it during wet times. I ditched the paddock and around the barn as best I could; we had plans to have someone come in with a bulldozer this summer and do the job right, but it never dried out enough - and there's so much clay in the soil here so that big machines will slide downhill under their own weight. I did NOT want a bulldozer pushing my pole barn off the cement piers! <br />
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The real concern for us is wind. We're in the woods, and while the local power company is pretty good about keeping the lines clear, trees do take them out on a fairly regular basis - so being prepared for outages is routine. We have a wood stove in one end of the house and a fireplace in the other, and about 2 cords of wood at the ready (for those of you who aren't familiar with that measurement, a full cord of wood measures 4'x4'x8'). We have flashlights and lamps (both kerosene and battery), lots of non-perishable foods (for humans, dogs and cats) and plenty of warm clothes and blankets. We park the cars in as open an area as we can - as you can tell from the photos, we have some very large locusts and maples on the property. Falling / flying limbs can take out a windshield pretty easily, AND they can take out part of a fence quite effectively, too. So the mare gets an ID tag braided into her mane just in case - it's a metal key fob; I used my Dremel tool to engrave it with my last name, location and phone number. <br />
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And now we wait ...<br />
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<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-47068507397465434742012-09-21T09:18:00.002-04:002012-09-21T09:18:48.091-04:00Edie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reggie and Edie Tschorn</td></tr>
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Yesterday, the world was diminished. Edie Tschorn, my mentor, neighbor, former employer, friend and hero passed away, eleven months after being diagnosed with brain cancer. She was one of the kindest, most giving and open people I've ever known, and while I will miss her more than I can ever convey, I was truly blessed to have had her in my life. She's the reason I became a saddle fitter, and she had more influence on me than she probably knew; the good bits of me became better and brighter with her guidance. She encouraged me to start this blog, and encouraged me to keep going with it, suggested subject matter and often proofed the posts before I published them. She helped me with pretty much every facet of my life, professional and personal, and did it with grace, tact and good humor, even when I was being my usual pushy, reactive, bull-headed Aries self. (She once said to me, when we were working through a particularly difficult and potentially explosive issue with my difficult and potentially explosive mare, "I think I know you well enough to say that you and your mare are an awful lot alike." Few people in this world could have said that to me at such a time without getting the rough and profane side of my tongue, but Edie did, and made me laugh about it, too.)</div>
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As often happens when my deepest heart is touched, it's hard for me to find the words that really express what I'm feeling. Edie touched so many lives and mentored so many people, young and old; her hand and her heart were always open, she always had a moment for you - even when she didn't - and she never failed to find the right thing to say or do to make you feel good. There are so many things I could say about her, so many things she did, so many examples of her wonderful nature, but I think the one thing that really sums Edie up is this: At the end of every day in the shop, before we walked down the stairs and out the door, no matter if we'd had a herd of PITA customers and been gold-plated assholes that day (and there were times when I know I truly excelled at that), she'd say, "Thank you."</div>
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saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-56978855916873293982012-08-20T10:11:00.002-04:002016-06-04T11:17:50.955-04:00Where's the Horse?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6aLPo7P50lA/UDJDSXoqOpI/AAAAAAAABNI/TwwRoYcJz6c/s1600/where's+the+horse+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6aLPo7P50lA/UDJDSXoqOpI/AAAAAAAABNI/TwwRoYcJz6c/s200/where's+the+horse+copy.jpg" width="161" /></a>I was reading through the <i>Chronicle of the Horse</i>'s 75th Anniversary issue (yes, I'm a month behind on my magazine reading, as usual) and came across a saddle ad. This ad is for a saddle that we used to sell back in the long-ago; the quality of the leather is lovely, the saddles are very pretty, and they're quite <i>haute couture </i>as far as saddles go. The ad reads: "Your horse can do amazing things when he is free to be himself." It goes on to list all the amazing things your horse can do ... until you're in the saddle. "You must be perfectly balanced so your horse is free to be his incredible, athletic horsey self." Advertised saddle, of course, will accomplish that task. "We start by finding the right seat for your center of balance. Then, just like our bridles, we finish it off with full grain leather that feels like butter, and extraordinary attention to detail."</div>
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And not one sentence - hell, not one <i>word</i> - about the horse. So I went to the web site, thinking I might find more info about fit for the horse there. Hmm. On the home page, it says, "Most saddle makers concern themselves with fitting the horse. We believe that's not enough!"<br />
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That led me to believe I might find more about fitting the horse somewhere on the site, Fitting the horse might not be "enough," but it's <i>something</i> ... right? So I went to the "saddles" section. And I found out that they offer different seat sizes/depths and flap lengths/sets ... and medium and wide trees. So I clicked on their "Saddle Fitting" chart, thinking that might have some info on fitting the horse ... and again, found lots of info on flaps and seats, and medium or wide trees. Finally, down at the bottom of that page, I found a link to "saddle purchase form". That <i>must</i> have something about fitting the horse ... right?<br />
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Wrong. It shows a silhouette of a person and where to take the measurements needed to fit the rider. You enter your height and weight, and you choose the model of saddle you want to purchase ... but it doesn't say jack-all about fitting the horse. Not even tree width. There <i>is</i> a little space at the bottom of the form for "Additional Comments", so I guess you could put something there.<br />
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Now, as I said, these saddles are lovely pieces of work, and do fit some horses very well. And yes, fit for the rider is of great importance ... but if tree width is all that's considered for the other half of the team, that's only part of the picture. I'm straining my middle-aged memory regarding any horse-fitting options that may have been offered on these saddles back when we carried them, and I can't recall any. They might have had some ... and they still might. But if so, wouldn't you think they'd say something about it in their ads, or at least on their web site? For all of their lovely leather and craftsmanship, these saddles are, to my mind, along the lines of the changeable-gullet and adjustable tree saddles: they only address one of the horse's fitting needs, and that just isn't enough.<br />
<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-54803859477564166432012-08-17T08:38:00.000-04:002012-08-17T08:38:18.180-04:00Great ExpectationsGiven the present state of the economy (can you tell that's been on my mind quite a bit?), a lot of folks are finding their "discretionary income" either severely minimized or almost non-existent. So understandably, used saddles - always popular - have become even moreso in the last few years.<br />
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We check our used and consignment saddles very thoroughly when they come in (along the lines explained in <a href="http://saddlefitter.blogspot.com/2010/07/used-saddle-safety-check-bargain-or.html">this post</a>) to make sure they're "serviceably sound for intended use" (as my vet used to say when doing a prepurchase on a horse); we note any cosmetic issues the saddles may have, and rate their condition anywhere from "fair" to "excellent/demo". Lately, though, we've had a few people who didn't quite seem to know what to expect from a used saddle ... so I thought I'd clarify.<br />
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1) IT WILL SHOW SIGNS OF USE. Unless you're lucky enough to find a second-hand saddle that's only had a few rides (which does happen from time to time), you will see "used saddle" marks. These can range from slight rub marks from the stirrup leathers and buckle marks on the billets (for the "excellent/demo" designation) to curled jockeys, faded dye, dings, nicks, wrinkles, tooth marks, scratches and scrapes (for the "fair" designation).<br />
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2) IT MAY SHOW SIGNS OF FORMER OWNERSHIP. These include things like a cantle plate (or holes in the cantle where one used to be) or a name or number engraved on the stirrup bar or stamped/burned into the sweat flap. These things don't affect the fit, usefulness or condition of the saddle, but be aware that your saddle may be adorned with something like "Wind Hill Andalusians" or "Cindy Lou Smith 123-456-7890" somewhere.<br />
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3) IT MAY SHOW SIGNS OF WORK OR REPAIR. These signs are sometimes fairly subtle: a well-used saddle may have spandy-new billets or shiny new falldown staples or saddle nails. Some saddles may have mismatched saddle nails, saddle plates or notations stamped into the sweat flap - both are common signs that the tree has been altered at some point (though just <i>how</i> it's been altered may be unearthed only by taking the saddle apart, since some saddlers will note their work on the tree). It may have extra dee rings or a crupper bar, or the billet configuration may have been altered.<br />
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4) THE FLOCKING WILL PROBABLY NEED TO BE ADJUSTED. I don't touch the flocking on consignment saddles unless the consignor requests it, or unless it's so flat/hard/overflocked that it won't realistically fit anything (and then, I check with the consignor before I make adjustments). I've had people say, "Well, the tree width and everything else looks good, but it's sitting so low ..." When I say that the issue can be corrected with flocking, I'm often told, "But this is a <i><b>used</b> </i>saddle - that should already have been done!" I explain to the customer that it probably <span style="font-style: italic;"><b>has</b></span> been done, but it will need to have the flocking adjusted to <i><b>their </b></i>horse ... just as a new saddle would.<br />
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5) REPAIRS WILL NEED TO BE MADE AT SOME POINT. "Used" saddle. Think about that. It's like "used" car ... sooner or later, some part is going to go and will need to be repaired or replaced. With saddles, thankfully, there aren't as many parts to go blooey, and repair/replacement probably won't be quite as expensive ... but yes, you'll need to have the billets replaced at some point, and - as stated above - the flocking will need to be maintained. Other minor issues may need attention: a stirrup leather keeper may need to be repaired or replaced, a dee ring may need to be replaced or a line of stitching may need to be re-sewn. If that's the case, you can price these repairs with your saddler / saddle fitter, and use that info if you'd like to negotiate on the price.<br />
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6) IT WILL BE BROKEN IN. IN SOME CASES, <i>VERY</i> BROKEN IN. One of my best and favorite clients, who's Huntsman for a local hunt, brought in her rode-hard-but-never-put-away-wet saddle for consignment. It showed that it had been used a lot: the leather was soft and supple, there were dark marks on the flaps from the leathers, the jockeys had molded to the shape of the stirrup leather buckle, and there were dark marks from the breast plate straps by the front dees. But was it clean? Immaculate. Was the flock in good condition? Definitely. Were there any dings? A very few, but nothing glaring. Was the saddle "serviceably sound for intended use? Unquestionably. The customer who bought it was thrilled to find this saddle, and realized that, in spite of the cosmetics, she'd gotten a saddle that will last for years and years to come.<br />
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UPSIDE<br />
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If you're ok with a saddle that has Issues 1-6, you'll find that there are major upsides to used saddles as well. First is price. While high quality used saddles hole their value very well (remember, new saddle prices almost never go down), you'll usually save hundreds of dollars if you're willing to go with a used saddle. And many sellers/consignors are quite motivated to move their saddle and are willing to consider reasonable offers. (And note that I said "<i>reasonable"</i>. Making an offer that amounts to 40% or 50% of the asking price may shut the seller down entirely. While getting a deal is always fun, stop and think of what <i>you</i> would reasonably take for the saddle if the tables were turned before you low-ball someone and perhaps lose your shot at a saddle you really want.) <br />
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Second good thing is availability. There are tons of used saddles out there. If you Google your specific requirements, you'll get a LOT of results - "used Black Country saddles" yielded 523,000 results; "used Albion jump saddles" offered 334,000 results, and "used Lovatt and Ricketts dressage saddles" coughed up 309,000 results. Of course, you need to exercise due diligence if you're buying from someone other than a reputable tack shop, and hopefully you can either try the saddle before you buy it or at least return it if it proves unsuitable for some reason, but I've found that most people are quite reasonable to work with. And if they're not, well ... take a look at those numbers again; chances are someone else has the same saddle that Mr./Ms. My-Way-or-the-Highway has ... Even if you have a horse with some exacting fitting requirements, chances are pretty good you can find the right saddle if you put enough effort into the search. Of course, if you need a saddle right this moment - and a very specific saddle at that - this option might not work for you; you might not find "the" saddle in a week or maybe even a month. Or two months. But if you can invest the time, trust me: it's out there.saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-39391113186179028482012-08-11T15:46:00.000-04:002013-08-14T11:34:44.292-04:00Interpreting the Template RevisitedLong-distance fitting requires a fitter to rely heavily on the use of the template. How each fitter interprets the template, however, can vary. Case in point: we received this tracing a while back:<br />
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The fitter who sent it noted that the horse needed a narrow or medium-narrow tree. To my eye - and according to the templates we use - the horse was on the wider side of medium. I sat for a few moments and compared the different templates to the tracing, trying to see how the fitter had come up with medium-narrow to narrow when I was seeing a generous medium. And after a little thought, I figured it out.<br />
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Here's the angle I measured to determine tree width:<br />
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Here's the angle the other fitter was using:</div>
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Here's the difference:</div>
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The original fitter was measuring the width too high - too close to the spine - and basing the tree width on the atrophied muscle. Obviously, a saddle that fit based on that criteria would have been too narrow, and would have made the atrophy worse. The assessment I made was based on the muscle that ought to be there (and that <i>would </i>be there with the help of a properly-fitting saddle), with an eye toward getting the <i>frame</i> of the saddle correct and "filling in the dips" with a modified panel - in this case, a wither gusset and a K panel to increase the bearing surface down the mare's quite prominent wither. We ordered a saddle with a "medium +" width - wider than a medium but not quite a medium-wide - because the owner wanted to use a sheepskin half pad for a little extra cushion, and to make up some of the width. The saddle fit the mare really well, and it came back to me about 8 weeks later for its first flocking adjustment. At that point, the owner no longer needed to use the sheepskin half pad to make the saddle fit well. And - happy ending - about 6 months after that, the mare had developed so much muscle that we had to send the saddle out to have the tree widened. The mare's going great guns, and the owner is thrilled. </div>
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<br />saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-81658586938765648502012-05-25T15:03:00.002-04:002012-05-25T15:03:20.583-04:00A Look Inside at Frank Baines SaddleryI found a fun <a href="http://traditionalcraftsblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/walsall-saddlers-frank-baines.html">blog post</a> on <a href="http://www.frankbaines.com/page.asp?id=6">Frank Baines Saddlery</a> just recently. Not written from a saddler's / saddle fitter's perspective, but worth a look anyway. Enjoy!saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-37812469741705323502012-04-02T21:41:00.000-04:002012-04-02T21:41:54.463-04:00Paddling Like Mad ...... and barely keeping my head above water! Apologies for the lack of saddle-fit-focus posts recently; I've been slammed with a flood tide of customers and saddle work and just haven't had time to do more than post notices on stuff others have been doing. However, I have another post in the "adjustable tree/changeable gullet" line brewing. We've recently gotten the Kent and Masters and Fairfax saddles in. These are from the minds that brought us the Thorowgood T4, T6 (now defunct) and T8; their "conformation specific" models - the Broadback/Cob, the High Wither and the Standard fit - have proved to work pretty well for their intended type, so we're hopeful that the trend will continue with the K&M saddles. I'm trying to schedule a time when my co-worker Nancy and I can get the saddles on some horses and evaluate them with a rider up ... hoping we'll be able to get in the saddles as well, to get some first-hand feedback. We've heard from a couple different fitters who've had the opportunity to do just that, and are hoping to correlate what they've told us with our own experience.<br />
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Another post in the offing will be about treeless saddles and the proper fitting thereof. This will be written by a fitter who actually FITS treeless saddles, rather than selling them left, right and center as the cure-all for every horse for every saddle fitting ill. I've really enjoyed chatting with this fitter, and am looking forward to getting her post so I can share the real info on fitting treeless.<br />
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I'm also working on a post about a visit from Brita Rizzi of <a href="http://www.dynamicsaddlefitting.com/">Dynamic Equine Saddle Fitting</a> (which happened last summer, to further prove how freakin' far behind I am!). She brought her pressure-sensing pad and demonstrated how the feedback can be used to assess saddle fit (and rider, and horse) issues. It was absolutely fascinating, and is one of the better diagnostic tools I've encountered.<br />
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In other news: still working on the outline for the saddle fitting class. That's almost done, and I'm tossing around dates for the first class. Also nursing the mare through the last stages of a heel bulb abscess so I can get her out and get her somewhat fit so I can find another saddle for her. <br />
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As always, thanks for reading. Stay tuned!saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8315761897298237483.post-47210144124868230692012-03-27T08:44:00.000-04:002012-03-27T08:44:21.664-04:00Behind the Scenes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I've featured info on what goes into the saddle making process, but did you ever wonder what goes on at the other end? Here's a fun look at what goes into those glossy, slick saddle ads, courtesy of Bliss of London:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/9uYZhZBORUs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>saddlefitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18340539191435086835noreply@blogger.com1