Most English style saddles are designed to sit behind the shoulder blade, not on top where movement will be restricted. It's fairly easy to check the placement of a dressage saddle. Most people will say they know exactly where to place the saddle, yet more often than not, the saddle needs to be moved back 11/2 to 3 inches! It will probably look and feel strange at first, but try it...your horse will appreciate the freedom!!!!
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To locate the correct place for your saddle, find the edge of the shoulder blade and push the front edge of the saddle just behind that point. If you are unsure where the shoulder blade ends, check with your veterinarian. The flexible flaps of the jumping saddle may extend over the shoulder blades as long as the actual points of the tree are behind the shoulder blades. The points of the tree are usually made of steel and are rigid. If the points of the tree rest on the shoulder blades, the horse cannot extend his front legs forward easily. As a result your horse will find it difficult to jump well.
 Treepoint |
 Saddle too far forward |
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