Saddles come in all shapes and sizes, and you can even get some really funky designs. But if your pony’s saddle doesn’t fit him properly, it can make it very uncomfortable for him to be ridden. In fact, if your pony bucks or acts up when you ride him for no apparent reason, it could be because his saddle is hurting him. Ouch!

Of course, ponies come in all shapes and sizes too. Even though they might not look pretty similar, two ponies may need totally different saddles. So remember peeps, when you get a new saddle you need to get a professional to fit it to your pony!

However, things can get tricky… Depending on how fit (or fat!) your pony gets during the year, his shape can change – meaning his saddle may not fit him anymore. Back in the day, you’d have to buy a brand new saddle if your pony changed shape, which is rather expensive and totally inconvenient.

Luckily, top research bods have been hard at work to come up with a saddle that you can adjust to fit your pony’s changing shape. GFS has produced the XCH range of saddles, which have a special carbon fibre tree. No, not that kind of tree! The tree is the base of the saddle, and when covered in padding and leather, is the part you’ll sit on and the part that rests over the top your pony’s back. A wider tree is needed for wide ponies, and narrower ones for narrow ponies.

Carbon fibre is basically a really light material, making your saddle a) easier to carry (phew!) and b) much less bulky, so you can sit really close to your pony. Want to know something else about carbon fibre? It’s pretty flexible, meaning you can adjust the width of the saddle. Now why didn’t anyone think of that before?!

Perfect fit

You can adjust an XCH saddle in a matter of minutes, and it’s really easy to do. Scroll down to watch a video of how to change the gullet of the saddle – the bit under the pommel that determines how wide or narrow it is. You’ll also find a really cool video on how to measure your pony up for an XCH saddle!

The XCH range of saddles uses wool flocking and foam designed to suit your pony’s unique shape. It absorbs shock and makes sure pressure is evenly distributed over your pony’s back. Along with the AMS Humane panel that ensures your pony is comfortable and free to move, the saddles make him more comfortable to ride. Which means even more hours to spend in the saddle, hurrah!

Take a test ride!

It’s a good idea to take any new saddle for a test ride before you buy it. After all, you’ll be spending a long time in it, so you want to make sure you’re happy with it! All the XCH saddles are available to try – visit www.gfsxch.co.uk or phone 01922 638094 for your nearest test ride centre.

Top PONY tip!

When trying your new saddle, have your instructor look at how your horse is moving, as well as how you’re looking in the saddle, too.

The range

Event XCH
The Event XCH has a shapely tree that is ideal for horses with more of a curve through their back. Suitable for a wide range of disciplines, it is priced at £950.

Elite XCH
For all round riders, especially if you love hacking! It’s also perfect if your pony has wider set shoulders and is broader through the back. Priced at £950.

VSJ XCH
A good choice if you have a thing for jumping! It’s suitable for both everyday riding and jumping, and it’s really suited to a pony with a flatter back. Priced at £950.

Eva AP XCH
If you love all disciplines, this is the one for you! Whether you’re jumping or on the flat, it suits a wide range of different shaped ponies. Priced at £950.

Haflinger XCH
This is a good one for broader ponies, as you can adjust the fit of this saddle in minutes using the GFS X-change system. A good general purpose saddle for everyday rider, and perfect for a wider pony that gains and loses condition from season to season. Priced at £950.

Thoroughbred XCH
This is for ponies with a high wither who hollow behind the shoulder. Comfort and precision for you and your pony! Priced at £950.

Eva dressage
One for dressage divas! This will give you an excellent position and allow you to give your pony really clear aids. Plus, it’ll suit lots of different shaped ponies. Priced at £950.

Want more info?

Then call 01922 638094, email sales@fieldhouse.co.uk or visit www.gfsxch.co.uk