Pre Registration
https://www.athabascaagsociety.com/event-details/saddle-fitting-clinic-1
2 people per hour
Join us for an in-depth Saddle Fit Clinic designed to help riders better understand the connection between saddle fit, equine biomechanics, behaviour, and overall performance.
Erica Gilles, with over 60 years of hands-on horse experience and 20 years as a professional saddle fitter, our clinician brings a wealth of practical knowledge to support both horse and rider comfort.
Pad testing, you’ll get an honest look at how your saddle truly fits your horse — and how it may be affecting performance, comfort, and behaviour. Perfect for riders noticing white hairs, resistance, sluggish movement, or overall saddle concerns.
Each session begins with a brief rider consultation to discuss any concerns you may be experiencing, such as white hairs, behavioural changes, resistance under saddle, sluggish movement, difficulty catching, or general performance issues. From there, a thorough static saddle assessment will be completed, evaluating straightness, spinal channel width, panel condition, balance, and overall saddle structure.
Next, the saddle will be placed on the horse to assess wither clearance, pressure distribution, and balance on the horse’s back. The clinic then moves into a dynamic Impression Pad test using the Port Lewis Impression Pad — one of the most effective alternatives to computerized pressure scanning. Riders will ride for approximately 15–20 minutes with the pad under their saddle (suitable for both English and Western saddles), allowing for a real-time evaluation of how the saddle performs in motion.
After the ride, the pad is analyzed to reveal pressure points, balance issues, and overall saddle fit accuracy. A photo of the results will be taken and reviewed with you, followed by a personalized discussion on findings and recommendations. If the saddle fit is poor, guidance will be provided on potential solutions, including adjustments, alternative saddles (used or new), custom options, and reputable tack sources.
This clinic is ideal for riders of all disciplines who want an honest, educational, and evidence-based assessment of their saddle fit and its impact on their horse’s comfort and performance. Whether you are troubleshooting specific issues or simply want peace of mind, this is a valuable opportunity to invest in your horse’s long-term soundness and wellbeing. Limited spots available.
