Cobs and Native ponies are renowned for their wonderful temperaments and versatility across disciplines. However, their unique conformation, typically characterised by wide, flat backs, low withers, and shorter weight-bearing area, can present significant challenges when it comes to saddle fitting. Riders committed to maintaining long-term comfort, performance, and back health in these horses often find that traditional saddle design can fall short.
Understanding the Challenges
Many saddle designs do not accommodate the conformation of Cobs or Native types, which leads to common problems such as bridging, rocking, saddle slip and peak pressure areas when ridden. Combined with a low wither or large shoulder, saddles may slide forward, shift, slip or roll during movement, or restrict the shoulders. In an attempt to ‘fix’ these issues, riders often resort to measures which may offer a temporary solution but can exacerbate discomfort and inhibit performance.
Seasonal weight fluctuations and muscle development changes can also affect saddle fit. This necessitates ongoing saddle adjustments, often requiring flocking alterations or even complete saddle replacements to maintain correct fit. It can also be hard to find a saddle that accommodates both the horse and the rider on those short-backed horses and ponies with a small weight bearing area.
SMART Saddles: A Progressive Approach
The SMART Saddle range offers a dynamic alternative for owners seeking a horse-focused solution that is adaptable throughout the seasons. Designed without a rigid tree, SMART Saddles incorporate a patented system that allows the saddle to flex with the horse’s back while providing the rider with stability, support, and balance; retaining the performance advantages of a conventional sports saddle without the restrictions imposed by a fixed internal framework.
For horses with broad, flat backs and low withers, this flexibility ensures a close, even contact, while avoiding common pitfalls like bridging or rocking. The design allows the saddle to move with the horse’s natural biomechanics, promoting correct posture, freedom of movement through the shoulder, and improved hindlimb engagement.
SMART Saddles are also highly practical for owners managing horses with fluctuating weight or muscle tone. The adjustable fitting system allows changes to be made on site quickly and precisely, without the need for reflocking - making it ideal for busy equestrians or owners of multiple horses.
The low-profile, lightweight design of the SMART Saddle also benefits horses with short backs, minimising bulk and ensuring that the saddle remains correctly positioned. This attention to anatomical fit contributes to greater comfort for the horse and improved rider security, particularly on wider, rounder horses where traditional saddles may slip or shift.
For the horse owner looking to invest in a saddle that supports long-term soundness and performance, SMART Saddles offer a forward-thinking solution that meets the practical demands of modern equestrian life.
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