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SADDLE FITTING INSIGHTS - MARCH 2026 EDITION

Progress. Collaboration. Real-World Learning.


March has been a landmark month for the IASF community—bringing learning to life through in-person collaboration, expanding our CPD offering and continuing to support both horse owners and professionals through seasonal change.


🐴 A MILESTONE MOMENT – OUR FIRST IN-PERSON CPD DAY


This month, we were proud to host our first in-person CPD day and what a success it was.

Bringing together student and qualified saddle fitters from a variety of backgrounds, the day centred around a complex case study where we explored practical solutions through saddle design across multiple brands.


Participants had the opportunity to:

  • Analyse a complex real-world case

  • Compare design approaches across manufacturers

  • Deepen their understanding of how different saddle constructions influence fit and function

  • Strengthen their ability to match design to diagnosis


A huge thank you to the brands who supported this event and made the day possible:

  • Erreplus Saddles

  • Albion Saddle Makers

  • Bliss of London

  • Saddlery Brands International


Your openness, expertise and collaboration helped create a truly valuable learning experience for all involved.


This is exactly what the future of saddle fitting looks like—collaborative, evidence-based and horse-focused.

🎓 UPCOMING WEBINAR: BIT & BRIDLE FOR SADDLE FITTERS

We’re excited to announce our next virtual learning opportunity:


Bit & Bridle for Saddle Fitters


🗓 Monday 27th April


🕡 6:30 PM GMT


⏱ 1.5 Hour Virtual Session


🎟 Tickets are open to all, with up to 50% off for IASF Global Network Members.



We will be joined by Olivia Turner, a highly respected Bitting and Equine Behavioural Expert, for what promises to be an insightful and practical session.


This webinar will explore:-

  • Correct bit and bridle fit. 

  • Different nosebands and their function. 

  • Checking for bit related injuries. 

  • Types of bits and how they work. 

  • Recognising a bitting issue. 

  • Is it the bit? A holistic view on bitting and ridden behaviour. 

  • How you can help your client.



🌱 EXPERT TIP – Seasonal Shedding, Friction & Saddle Fit


As horses begin to shed their winter coats, it’s common for owners to notice rub marks, particularly toward the back of the saddle.


What’s Normal—and What’s Not?


Some increase in wear marks can be expected during coat change. However, this should never be dismissed without consideration.


Key Checks to Make (for Saddle Fitters):


  • Thoroughly assess the saddle in motion


    Allocate additional time to carry out a longer and more thorough ridden assessment.


  • Check the saddle pad

    • Is it clean?

    • Is there a build-up of hair, sweat, or dirt increasing friction?

    • Is there a decorative edge that is causing friction?


  • Review pad thickness


    Many horses use half pads during winter—but does the horse still need it now?


  • Monitor changes closely


    You may need to schedule additional or more frequent checks to monitor the horse. Educate your customers on how to use a flexi-curve and ask for video updates where possible.


For Horse Owners - When in Doubt


Always consult a qualified saddle fitter. Seasonal transitions are one of the most common times for saddle fit to change—and early intervention makes all the difference.


💬 CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION – PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT



Our CPD offering continues to grow, with opportunities designed to support both technical skill and professional confidence.


From Case Study Club discussions to our Saddle Fitters Round Table, we are committed to creating spaces where saddle fitters can:



  • Ask questions

  • Challenge thinking

  • Share experiences

  • Develop sound clinical reasoning



Because great saddle fitting doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens through collaboration and continuous learning.

🌍 JOIN THE IASF GLOBAL NETWORK


The IASF Global Network is at the heart of everything we do.


For New Members:


Join a global community and gain access to:

  • Exclusive educational content

  • Discounted CPD events

  • Expert-led webinars

  • Collaborative discussions


👉 Join the IASF Global Network today



For Existing Members:


Are you making the most of your membership?

  • Attend upcoming CPD sessions

  • Take advantage of your event discounts

  • Engage in discussions and case studies

  • Continue building your professional network

Your membership is designed to support your growth—use it to its full potential.


✨ Until Next Time


As we move into spring, it’s a time of transition—for horses, for workloads and for saddle fit. Stay observant, stay curious and continue to prioritise the horse in every decision.


We look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events.


IASF – Working together for the good of the horse 🐴


 
 
 

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