General Measurements for Saddle Trees
Is it any wonder why the general public is totally confused by the saddle fit industry?! I can tell you over the course of the last several years, it has been extremely difficult to learn! For those of you who don’t know, my background is in Veterinary Medicine, which is relatively black-and-white. Nose tip to tail tip, each exam is done the same, the diagnostics and treatments are streamlined, and usually 1+1=2. Saddle fitting, on the other hand, is NOT black and white. Acquiring this knowledge has proven exceptionally challenging.
I’m so frustrated with the lack of transparency from the saddle manufacturers, it is maddening! For example, given its critical role, one would expect detailed information about tree fit to be readily available from manufacturers.
However, because their saddle trees are often proprietary designs, they won’t give out detailed information about them. This proprietary nature encourages some manufacturers to closely guard parts of their tree specifications, thus making it challenging to obtain detailed information.
Secondly, the complexity of saddle trees, their variations, and how those variations affect the horse and rider further complicate their ability to communicate detailed information that covers all potential variables, and customer needs.
Also, because there is no “industry standard” for any of it, the terminology used to describe saddle trees can vary drastically between manufacturers, adding another layer of confusion. Terms like "gullet width," “bar spread,” "rock," "twist," and "flare" can be interpreted or measured differently, leading to misunderstandings, or incomplete information when discussing saddle fit and tree specifics.
There is a wealth of information available, much of which contradicts itself. Adding to the confusion, everyone you consult offers a different opinion shaped by their own training, experiences, and interpretations. How does one discern who is correct and who might be lacking crucial information?
Thus, while saddle trees are the foundation of saddle fit, obtaining detailed information about them remains a formidable task. As riders navigate the process of selecting saddles, gaining the assistance of an experienced, independent Saddle Fitter will greatly alleviate some of the challenges associated with understanding saddle trees, and ultimately improve saddle fit for horses, and comfort for riders.
Here are some general measurements that *most* saddles will fit into.
Keep in mind that the brand of saddle, and the type/make of tree varies from brand to brand, and even year to year. This is just like how car bodies and styles will vary from year to year within the same make.
From one Saddlery to another, tree specifications can vary as much as 1-inch difference…which is why I am giving you a range on each tree size.
THE IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS THAT ALL COMPANIES DEFINE THESE MEASUREMENTS DIFFERENTLY, AND THERE IS NO INDUSTRY STANDARD.
Here are some GENERAL rule measurements to assist you in deciding what tree your saddle has in it:
Pony tree usually measures 5-6"
Semi QH tree is usually 6.5 to 6.75"
Full QH tree is typically 6.5 to 7"
Wide tree are usually 7 to 8"
Extra Wide, or Draft trees are usually 7.5 to 8", and have greater than 90 degree angle to the bars at the gullet
My best advice is to have a saddle fitting done with your horse to be certain it is "The Right Fit!"
