“Onward and upward with my beautiful SMART VSD saddle!”

After being told by a few saddlers that I would not get a saddle to fit Rona, my Welsh Cob x ID “tabletop" mare, I had all but given up trying to buy a saddle and seriously questioned how to move forward. Tacking up had become an unpleasant tussle that made us both feel unhappy, her old saddle slipped and twisted while riding and I had no doubt she was uncomfortable.

Then, a SMART™ Advisor from SMART Saddles came to visit; she was interested and very keen to help solve our problems. The fitting was very thorough and so much care and attention was taken to make sure it was right. There was no rush. I learned quite a lot about saddles during the afternoon! I was able to ride in various SMART saddle styles to feel the difference and see how they suited my position and how Rona felt in them. As soon as we went in the arena she relaxed and stretched forward with her head down and a nice forward stride.

I knew straight away that the SMART VSD saddle was going to be ours. It was available on a 2-week trial which is a great idea and a perfect chance to make sure it was right for us - but there was no doubt in my mind from the outset.

Although I have only had my SMART VSD saddle for a couple of weeks, we have turned a corner with tacking up, which is a much better, safer experience and that alone tells me that Rona is happier. The saddle is easy to fit and I no longer have slipping issues. Rona has good paces (when she is in the mood!) and stretches beautifully - I think she is discovering that she can move in comfort and thus our teamwork is improving. I’m very excited to see how her muscles will improve and develop over the coming months. Onward and upward!

For myself, I love the comfort, stability and security that I now have. The seat hugs me and I am sitting “in” the saddle rather than the old saddle, where I was perched on top. Now I can feel Rona’s movement underneath me and the saddle lifts as she moves forward, allowing her to stretch and engage. I feel very balanced and stable and I am excited that my riding can now begin to improve.

I can honestly say Rona and I are so happy. The quality of my new saddle is fantastic and it looks really smart. I am so pleased with it, I am sure Rona would endorse it too!

Caron Gilleeney