How to Fit a Barrel Saddle

A properly fitting barrel saddle is essential to a winning barrel racing team. A barrel saddle must fit both horse and rider well to ensure comfort for both partners, and saddle fit must be checked periodically and adjusted if there are any changes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Saddle pad
• Baby powder
• Grooming brushes

1. Brush any dirt or grime from the horse before trying to fit your saddle. Any dirt or foreign material between the horse and the saddle can cause serious discomfort and make fitting your barrel saddle difficult.

2. Apply a thick layer of baby power along the horse’s back. This dusting of baby power will help you check later for any dry spots or problem areas with your saddle.

3. Place the saddle pad on the horse’s back, directly over the area in which you will be placing your saddle. Be sure the pad is free of stickers or other items that may cause the horse pain.

4. Set the saddle gently on the horse, directly over the saddle pad. Center it well and eliminate any gaps or folds in your saddle pad that might bunch up when you tighten the saddle.

5. Thread the latigo strap through the cinch buckle and tighten the saddle gently. Use caution to avoid overtightening until the horse is accustomed to the feel of the saddle on her back.

6. Walk the horse around a bit and tighten the cinch again. Walking the horse causes her to release tension and any air she’s holding in her body so that you can properly tighten the saddle.

7. Get on the horse and slowly warm the horse up. Allow the horse to walk, trot and canter to make sure that the saddle fits firmly at all gaits and that the horse does not show any pain or discomfort while being ridden.

8. Dismount the horse and remove the saddle. Be gentle when taking the saddle off to avoid injuring or frightening the horse.

9. Check the horse’s back for any signs of rubbing or damage from the saddle. There should be even sweat marks along the horse’s body with no obvious signs of dryness or irritation. The baby power will stand out if there are any ill-fitting areas along her back.

10. Refit the horse with a thicker or thinner saddle pad if necessary. Changing to a different type of saddle pad can often eliminate fitting issues quickly and with little effort. Use a specialty support pad if needed to ensure that your barrel saddle fits your horse as well as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Use only clean, dry equipment on your horse. Any dirty or damaged tack can cause irritation and injury to both horse and rider.
• Never throw tack or items around while working with your horse. He is much larger than you and can be easily frightened.