| TREE WIDTH
The tree size and the shape of the metal head plate in the tree must conform to the horses' shape, being neither too narrow nor too wide. If the tree does not fit well, it will cause pressure points, which can be extremely painful. Patches of white hair around the wither, swelling, weak or atrophied muscles or soreness usually indicates the wrong tree size.
While sitting in the saddle, you can check the tree size by placing your fingers vertically under the pommel (front of the saddle) and on top of the withers. There should be enough room for 2 to 3 fingers (little finger, ring finder, and maybe your middle finger). If there is space for 4 fingers or more, that means the tree is too narrow and will pinch your horse. If there is less than 2 fingers, the saddle tree is too wide and may damage your horse's wither.
To determine the tree size before purchasing a saddle, you need a tracing of your horses whithers. Instead of using an old coat hanger, a 24" flexible curve or "Curvex" is more accurate and easier to use. You can usually purchase one in a good office supply store.
Stand your horse square, on level ground. Place the "curve" just behind the shoulder blade and carefully mold it to your horses wither shape. Carefully lift the curve off the horse's back, place it on a piece of paper or cardboard and trace the inside edge with a pen. If you take this to a tack store, try fitting the cardboard cutout under the pommel of the saddle. Allowing for rider weight, you should have 3 1/2 to 4 fingers above the cardboard under the pommel. Less clearance means the tree is too wide and more clearance means the tree is too narrow.
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