“I can’t recommend Michael enough, he spent time to settle my horse and didn’t rush at all, he is a lovely man who knew exactly what would suit my horse and he has never felt better.”

 

Michael Burleigh is a leading saddle fitter, working across Herefordshire and surrounding counties. Michael qualified as a Society of Master Saddler’s Registered Saddle Fitter since 2000. He is the sole Master Saddler to hold this prestigious qualification in Herefordshire and is one of only seventy nationally.

With his many years of hands on experience, backed up by recognised qualifications, Michael is able to offer a unique service and depth of knowledge.

 
 
Finally my little cob has a saddle that really fits thanks to the competence and expertise of Michael, Master Saddler at the Horse Boutique. The pony is moving so much more freely and generally a much happier chap under saddle.
— Sarah
I can’t recommend Michael enough, he spent time to settle my horse and didn’t rush at all, he is a lovely man who knew exactly what would suit my horse and horse has never felt better
— Willow
 

Benefits of a Well Fitting Saddle

 

Trustworthy Behaviour

The fit of your saddle can be vitally important for the bonding between horse and rider. Not only will it relieve pressure on pinch spots, but will also allow you to communicate better meaning that you can work together. We believe that trust is vitally important when teaming up with your horse and that trustworthy behaviour can be learned through good horsemanship.

 

Comfort and enjoyment

We all know what it feels like when you gallop across open land. Horse and rider as one, it’s a thrill! A properly fitted saddle can help you enjoy every moment on your horse. It will give you the comfort to enjoy longer rides, new challenges or simply encourage to ride more. Saddles are meant to be comfortable, they help hold you in position and allow you to communicate with your horse more. Don’t settle for an uncomfortable seat.

Medical or Anatomical Complaints

Thousands of horses across the world are working under unwarrented pressure from their saddle. This can lead to a multitude of issues. Not all horses are made the same, their anatomy is as individual as our own. Life, experience, health and other factors can also play their part and a well-fitting saddle can aid and relieve current issues and prevent future ones.

 

Control and genuine guidance

Riding is dangerous. We pair up with mighty animals, who are heavy and often unpredictable. Being able to share our thoughts with them is the key to great horsemanship. If you watch a cross-country competition at the highest level you will see how important it is that the horse and rider are able to act as a team. A well-fitting saddle will enable you to provide better guidance and control in all situations.