These resources are brought to you by the Cooperative Extension System and your Local Institution

Horses Home

Have a question? Try asking one of our Experts

Why do some riders pull their saddle forward before they ride?

Last Updated: August 13, 2008

View as web page


Some saddles tend to slide back as the horse moves, particularly if the withers are high or there is a dip in the back behind the withers. Pulling a saddle forward before mounting would not be recommended as the saddle is moving against the hair. If enough hair is affected, or the horse is ridden for a long time, irritation with the potential for a saddle sore can occur. The need to move a saddle forward may indicate the saddle doesn't fit the horse's back.

Browse related Faqs by tag: horses, riding, saddling


Have a specific question? Try asking one of our Experts

Unlike most other resources on the web, we have experts from Universities around the country ready to answer your questions.