The gullet of a horse’s saddle should sit comfortably and securely on the horse’s back, without putting any unnecessary pressure on the horse’s spine or withers. The saddle should be positioned so that the gullet is centered over the horse’s spine, and the tree of the saddle should be wide enough to support the horse’s back without pinching or rubbing.
To ensure that the gullet is properly positioned on the horse’s back, you should start by measuring the width of the horse’s withers. This will help you determine the right size and width of the saddle tree. Once you have the right size saddle, you should adjust the saddle’s gullet to fit the horse’s withers. This may require some trial and error, as every horse is different and may require a slightly different gullet width to fit comfortably.
Once you have the saddle in place on the horse’s back, you should adjust the stirrups to the correct length for the rider. The stirrups should be long enough for the rider to comfortably reach the ground with their heels down, but not so long that they are dragging on the ground. The stirrup leathers should be adjusted so that the stirrup hangs straight down from the saddle, rather than being angled forward or backward.
Next, you should check the position of the saddle on the horse’s back. The saddle should sit level and parallel to the horse’s spine, with the cantle of the saddle at the same height as the pommel. The saddle should not be tilted to one side or the other, as this can cause the horse to become uncomfortable and may lead to problems with the horse’s movement.
Finally, you should check the fit of the saddle on the horse’s back. The saddle should be snug and secure, without any gaps or wrinkles. It should not be too tight or too loose, as either of these can cause discomfort for the horse. You can check the fit of the saddle by running your hand along the horse’s back and feeling for any areas where the saddle is rubbing or putting pressure on the horse’s skin.
Overall, a properly fitting gullet on a horse’s saddle is essential for the horse’s comfort and health. By taking the time to measure the horse’s withers and adjust the saddle to fit properly, you can ensure that your horse is comfortable and happy while being ridden.
