Why Saddle Balance Matters More Than You Think

When riders think about saddle fit, they often focus on whether a saddle is “too wide” or “too narrow.” While tree width is important, there’s another aspect of saddle fitting that often has an even greater impact on both horse and rider comfort: saddle balance.

A saddle can technically be the right size for a horse—and still cause problems if it isn’t balanced correctly.

What Does “Saddle Balance” Mean?

Saddle balance refers to how the saddle sits on the horse’s back from front to back and side to side.

A well-balanced saddle:

• Allows even weight distribution along the panels

• Keeps the deepest part of the seat in the correct place

• Supports the rider without tipping them forward or backward

• Allows the horse to move freely through the shoulder and back

When balance is off, pressure is rarely even—and horses feel that immediately.

What Happens When a Saddle Is Out of Balance?

An unbalanced saddle often shows up in subtle ways before becoming an obvious problem.

On the horse, you may notice:

• Shortened stride or reluctance to move forward

• Resistance to transitions

• Hollowing, tail swishing, or pinned ears

• Uneven muscle development

On the rider, it can look like:

• Feeling tipped forward or pushed into a chair seat

• Difficulty keeping a steady leg position

• Increased lower back or hip discomfort

In many cases, riders assume the issue is training-related or physical, when the saddle is quietly contributing to the problem.

Common Causes of Balance Issues

Saddle balance can change even if the saddle hasn’t.

Some of the most common reasons include:

• Changes in the horse’s topline due to conditioning, age, or time off

• Flocking that has compressed unevenly over time

• Seasonal muscle changes

• Growth or asymmetry in the horse

• Using pads to compensate for fit rather than support it

This is why a saddle that “used to fit great” may no longer be working as well.

Can Padding Fix a Balance Problem?

Padding can be helpful—but only after the saddle itself is evaluated.

Strategic shimming can:

• Support minor asymmetry

• Fine-tune balance during transitional phases

• Protect a developing topline

However, padding cannot correct:

• A fundamentally poor tree shape

• Significant balance issues

• Pressure points caused by incorrect panel contact

In some cases, adding pads without addressing balance can actually increase pressure in the wrong areas.

Why Balance Is a Key Part of a Saddle Fitting

During a saddle fitting, balance is assessed:

• At rest

• In motion

• With the rider

• Across multiple gaits

This allows us to see how the saddle interacts with the horse’s movement—not just how it looks standing still.

Small adjustments, such as flocking changes or billet refinements, can often restore balance and dramatically improve comfort without requiring a new saddle.

The Takeaway

Saddle fit isn’t just about size—it’s about how the saddle supports the partnership between horse and rider.

If something feels “off,” even if the saddle looks fine, balance is often a good place to start.

If you have questions about your saddle or would like a professional fit evaluation, we’re always happy to help. Stop by the shop or give us a call to schedule a saddle fitting. Thoughtful, preventive care makes a lasting difference in your horse’s comfort.