Friday, March 23, 2012

Saddle Problems

Saddles. You have them right they are wonderful but when they are wrong they are a nightmare!

I currently ride in Keiffer Wein and while it fits Sam well I am struggling. I had it fitted in January. They had to add more padding at the front which at the time didn't click to me that it would change my seating position. I know that sounds dumb but I guess you have to learn the hard way sometimes.

I have been finding it hard to get comfortable since and my instructor even commenting on how awful my position now is. She advised to put a folded towel under my saddle at the back. I tried this this afternoon and wow what a difference. I felt in a more balanced position, more even in my seat and I felt that I was able to sit straighter.

I will contact the people who did the saddle fit and let them know of the problem I am now having so hopefully they will be able to set things straight next time they are in my part of the country.

My instructor has suggested I look at a better dressage saddle - maybe the Keiffer Ulla. I stumbled across the Keiffer Kurr tonight. Brand new, the saddlery store is closing down and selling it for HALF PRICE! HUGE saving. My problem is I have never ridden in one! Dilemmas!

Our ride this afternoon wasn't too bad. I am just having a lot of trouble getting Sam motivated and forward. We will get there and he is a lot better out than at home but it gets very frustrating!

3 comments:

Mona Sterling said...

Saddle shopping and fitting is probably one of the worst parts of horse ownership. I'm in the ongoing battle of trying to find a saddle that fits the horse AND fits me. I hope your saddle dilemma resolves quickly! If Sam has just started having trouble with forward motivation, it may have to do with your change of position on his back. Good luck!!

Wolfie said...

It is frustrating when one of you aren't comfortable. I will probably be getting a custom-made saddle soon. I recently added risers to the front of my western saddle and I know that it's more comfortable for Gem, but it will take some time for me to get used to it. Good luck with your search!

Frizzle said...

Yuck. Saddle fitting/shopping is the worst! Good luck and I hope you find the perfect saddle for you and Sam (at an affordable price, hopefully)! If you buy that Keiffer, can you return it if it doesn't fit you or Sam? Or maybe sell it on ebay or something?