The Importance of Properly Fitting Horse Gear
The right gear doesn’t just look good—it keeps your horse comfortable, safe, and performing at their best. Poorly fitted saddles, bridles, or rugs can cause pain, behaviour problems, and even long-term injury. That’s why taking the time to fit gear correctly is one of the most important parts of horse ownership.
1. Saddles
A well-fitted saddle protects your horse’s back and allows freedom of movement.
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Check balance: The saddle should sit level, not tipping forward or back.
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Clearance: Ensure 2–3 fingers’ clearance at the wither and along the spine.
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Panel contact: Panels should make even contact without gaps or pressure points.
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Gullet width: Wide enough so it doesn’t pinch the spine.
👉 Tip: Get your saddle professionally fitted and rechecked regularly—your horse’s shape changes with age, condition, and fitness.
2. Bridles & Bits
The bridle should hold the bit comfortably in place without pinching.
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Browband: Wide enough so it doesn’t pull the headpiece into the ears.
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Noseband: Should be snug but allow two fingers’ space underneath.
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Bit: Correct width (around ¼ inch wider than the horse’s mouth) and resting with one or two wrinkles at the corner of the mouth.
3. Girths
The girth should be secure but not over-tightened.
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Fit: It should sit about a hand’s width behind the elbow.
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Comfort: Look for padded or shaped girths to prevent rubbing.
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Check: Always tighten in small increments on both sides.
4. Rugs
Horse rugs keep your horse warm, dry, and protected—but fit matters.
Horse rugs keep your horse warm, dry, and protected—but fit matters.
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Length: The rug should cover the horse from chest to tail without slipping back.
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Chest straps: Should fasten comfortably without pulling tight.
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Surcingles & leg straps: Adjust to prevent slipping but not so loose they tangle.
5. Boots & Bandages
Protective boots and bandages shield legs during work and travel.
Protective boots and bandages shield legs during work and travel.
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Fit: They should be snug without cutting off circulation.
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Position: Always apply evenly, avoiding wrinkles that could cause pressure sores.
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Cleanliness: Dirt under boots can rub and irritate the skin.
Why Proper Fit Matters
Ill-fitting gear doesn’t just affect performance—it can lead to soreness, resistance, and injury. By ensuring your gear is correctly fitted, you’ll have a happier horse, a smoother ride, and peace of mind.
Ill-fitting gear doesn’t just affect performance—it can lead to soreness, resistance, and injury. By ensuring your gear is correctly fitted, you’ll have a happier horse, a smoother ride, and peace of mind.
At Saddleworld Bundaberg, we offer expert advice and professional saddle fitting services to make sure both you and your horse are riding in comfort and confidence.