How to Measure Your Horse for a Treeless Saddle: A Step-by-Step Guide
Finding the right fit for your horse is the foundation of a successful partnership. Unlike traditional saddles with rigid trees, treeless options—like our PADDLE®—offer incredible flexibility, but they still require precise measurements to ensure proper weight distribution.
Why Proper Measurement Matters Even without a tree, your equipment must accommodate your horse’s length, width, and back profile. A poor fit can lead to uneven pressure, hindering your horse's freedom of movement.
The 3-Step Measurement Process
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Identify the Withers: Place your finger at the base of the withers where the saddle would sit. This is your starting point.
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Measure the Back Length: Follow the spine from the base of the withers to the last thoracic vertebra (the final rib). Crucial tip: Do not measure to the croup, as this will result in a saddle that is too long.
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Determine Width: Observe your horse’s shoulder conformation. Are they broad and flat, or narrow and high-withered? Our Fitting System allows for gullet adjustments, but knowing your horse's baseline width ensures the Velcro cushions are placed for optimal spinal clearance.
Need More Support? Every horse is unique. If you're unsure about your measurements, our team is here to help. Explore our PADDLE® Sizing Guide or book a virtual fitting consultation.
