What it looks like
A saddle that tips forward sits low at the pommel and high at the cantle, pitching the rider onto the fork and the horse’s shoulder. The rider often feels tipped forward, struggles to sit deep, and may find their lower leg slipping back. You may also see the saddle creeping forward over the shoulder during work.
The horse may show discomfort or restriction through the shoulder and forehand, and the girth may sit too far forward into the elbow.
Common fit-related causes
A forward-tipping saddle is often associated with balance and width problems. Common fit-related causes include:
- A tree that is too wide, allowing the front of the saddle to drop down.
- A saddle that does not match the angle behind the shoulder, so it settles forward.
- Conformation, such as a downhill build or particular wither and shoulder shape.
- Incorrect positioning, with the saddle started too far forward over the shoulder.
Because balance affects both horse comfort and rider effectiveness, it is worth correcting at source rather than compensating with the seat.
When to involve a vet or physiotherapist
Persistent forward movement, shoulder restriction or a change in the horse’s way of going can be associated with discomfort and require assessment. If you notice soreness or behavioural change, please involve a vet and, where appropriate, a qualified physiotherapist. Saddle fit advice is not a substitute for veterinary advice.
How assessment and the right saddle may help
A back template and profile photographs help us judge width and balance, and video shows how the saddle behaves in motion. Through remote saddle fitting, we can advise on a more suitable width, flocking or balance, or a better-matched IDEAL saddle. See how it works.
For horses that fall outside standard shapes, IDEAL’s Designed to Order service can specify the balance to suit the individual horse.
Related reading: high-withered horses, wide cobs and restricted shoulder.
If your saddle keeps tipping forward, start your saddle enquiry and we will help you find the cause.