Author: evolutionarysaddles

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The Saddle Struggle: Why Finding the Right Fit Feels Impossible

If you’ve ever spent months—or even years—searching for a saddle that actually fits your horse, you know the feeling. The frustration. The second-guessing. Even the guilt, wondering if you’re doing something wrong.

Many riders come to me after trying saddle after saddle, each one leaving pressure points, white hairs, or a horse that refuses to move freely. Some spend thousands of dollars, chasing a solution that always seems just out of reach.

It’s not just about money—it’s about your horse’s comfort and the emotional toll it takes on you. You want to ride without worry. You want peace of mind that your partner isn’t hurting. And you want confidence that you finally made the right choice.

Why Saddle Fit Is So Complicated

Here’s the truth most riders aren’t told:

  • Most saddles are still built to one variation of the “standard” tree shape, even though horses come in endless varieties.
  • Gaited breeds, mules, Arabians, and even broad-backed Quarter Horses often don’t fit that mold.
  • Horses change shape with age, conditioning, and season. A saddle that “worked” last year may now cause pain.
  • Many designs are focused more on tradition or style than actual equine biomechanics.

So if you’ve struggled, it’s not because you’re doing anything wrong. It’s because the saddles themselves often aren’t built with your horse in mind.

A Different Approach

That’s where Evolutionary Saddles come in.

Instead of forcing your horse into a rigid design, these saddles adapt to your horse.

  • Flexible panels move with their body, reducing pressure points and encouraging free movement.
  • Custom fitting options ensure a match for both horse and rider.
  • The fitting-first process guarantees the saddle is chosen for your horse’s real shape—not for tradition’s sake.

This isn’t about selling “just another saddle.” It’s about solving the struggle so both you and your horse can move forward in comfort and confidence.

Stories from the Barn

Every rider who comes to me carries a story.

  • A sweet mare who pinned her ears every time the saddle came out.
  • A gelding who refused jumps—not out of stubbornness, but because he was hurting.
  • A trail horse who grew spooky and sour, simply because every step caused discomfort.

When we finally found the right fit, the transformation was immediate: soft eyes, a willingness to move, and riders who could finally breathe again.

Because when the saddle fits, everything changes—the ride, the bond, the partnership.

Moving Forward

If you’ve been living this saddle struggle, you’re not alone—and there is a better way.

I invite you to learn more about how my saddles work, the fitting process, and why so many riders finally found peace after years of searching.

Explore Our Saddles!

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Get to Know the Saddler

My Background

How I Started in Horses

My education in the world of horses started when I was a child, the tender age of 7. Dad went out of town on business. So my mother took it upon herself to ask for forgiveness rather than permission to get me my first horse. When my dad got home he wasn’t pleased because now he had fence to build.

Mom immediately put me in lessons, found a 4-H group for me to join so I could go to the fair. My life in horses started to take off. I learned more in those formative years because of the instructors and 4-H leaders that I had than many horse owners will encounter in a lifetime.

Getting Back into Horses

I am almost a half century old now and I have to say that I was blessed with the childhood I had with horses.

As an adult I wanted to get horses myself again. I bought my farm at 22, where I moved my house to and moved an old shed to as well. There I began my adult life with horses and adopted two Standardbreds from American Standardbred Adoption Program in Viroqua, WI.

I worked with them, fostering among other things for a few years before striking out on my own with my now ex-boyfriend. We founded the Midwest Horse Welfare Foundation together and when we parted, I let the program go with him, where it thrives.

Furthering My Equine Education

During that time I became Certified in Equine Sports Massage Therapy from the Institute of Equine Therasage, in Janesville, WI. This was 2002 and Equine Massage was barely a service people even realized was possible in the local Wisconsin equine community.

Needless to say my massage business never took off like I’d hoped, maybe if the timing had been different. Although I believe that it was just the preparation for where I am now.

After 15 years in Information Technology, where I loved what I did and the people I worked with, I have changed careers once again. Actually something that I have grown to expect after all these trips around the sun. While it all seems drastic, when you add it all up, it appears to me that every learning experiences you have had only prepare you for these big changes. Change is inevitable, roll with it, it just might be better than you could have ever expected.

If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. I did not coin that phrase, but it has been my life for a long time. I loved my work in the IT world. It was because again, I was never going to know everything and there was always going to be something new to learn.

That the equine industry, never going to know everything, and that’s OK. You’re always going to have something new to learn, which will keep it interesting and engaging. That is what I loved about IT, that is what I have always loved about horses.

When I am working on a saddle or working with a horse, it engages all of my being. There are no thoughts of the troubles that are going on in life, no worrying in that moment about things you cannot change. There is just me and whatever I am working on. Satisfying to say the least!

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The Kerry

On the Endurance Tree Mixed with Western Charm

Designed, Constructed & Article Written by Tracy P. (Apprentice)

This saddle is named after a very long time friend and leatherworker who passed away early in 2023.  

Double T Leather Works

Double T Leather Works was owned and operated by Kerry Wilcox, I met him while doing historical re-enactments in high school.  Our lives took us in many directions through the years but we remained friends throughout.  So, when I started working for Lara in the fall of 2022, Kerry was happy to give both of us tips and pointers.  Sharing with us what he had learned in his 20+ years of leather working, saddle building and repair.  

When Kerry lived in the Dakotas he even met Cathy who owned Hillview Farms and manufactured Evolutionary Saddles.  When I poorly tried to explain Evolutionary Saddles to him, after working with Lara for all of a day.  He chuckled and reminded me I had a lot to learn but I’d get there.  He was so very correct in that assessment!  

Kerry was a “traditional” leather worker. Everything he did was done with the tools as it had always been done. So, when I’d join him to pick his brain on how to do something, then grab the wrong tool he’d correct me.  Then we would have a discussion on tool usage and why do I have to use something that doesn’t necessarily work for me.  There are still tools that he mastered that some day I’ll understand the appeal.

Sharing Philosophies

One of the discussions we had many times was why conventional saddles were so heavy and not always comfortable for the rider or horse. Kerry was a conventional saddle guy due to living out west and dealing with the cowboys and their saddles.  Either type of saddle, conventional or panel, we agreed had to be a good product that fit the job it was designed for. Additionally, it needed to be made of quality materials and perform as the customer wanted.  

Opportunity Strikes!

So when Lara approached me about making my own saddle, I started thinking about what I wanted.  This would need to be my forever saddle. Knowing it would fit whatever horse I eventually purchased, the sky was my limit for me to design it.  I’m not sure Lara expected a complete custom design as my first build.  

After Kerry passed away I knew I wanted to build a saddle that showed off the skills I learned and be a saddle he would be impressed with, both in function and quality.   So I have dedicated it to him by designing it with him in mind and naming it after him.  The Kerry became a reality.

Kerry’s absolute favorite standard tooling pattern that he put on all of his leather work was the sunburst. Keeping this in mind I wanted to be sure to add it to my saddle.  However, my love of dragonflies also needed to be incorporated. That is how the border tooling on the rigging cover came to be.

Kerry did amazing carved figure tooling on many things and I was just starting to learn but being an endurance western hybrid type saddle it had to have some carving. The frog, where the rear jockeys meet, was a perfect place to add a carving, so I needed to design something.

Our History

I met Kerry 30 years ago at a reenactment event, I was introduced to him as Tripping Turkey. There’s a story behind his camp name, as there always is, but it took several years for me to hear the namesake version.  

Tripping Turkey is where the TT in Double T Leather Works comes from.  Because of this I wanted a turkey feather on my saddle. Feathers are one of the more difficult things to carve, so why not start there.  The frog’s shape is a dragonfly, incorporating something from both of us again.  The colored spots add the color and flash, Kerry and I like blue, green and pink, together and seperate.  

Strings and conchos are favored on western saddles, they add an individual rider’s personality.  I found when going through Kerry’s leather shop stock using the conchos and strings that he had. Allowing me to customizing my saddle and as another tribute to him.

New Skills & New Accomplishments

The Kerry built with black and havana brown leather opens up matching tack options.  Using metallic green leather I had on hand, I created, my first, inlay breast collar with tooled wither strap and tugs. Paired with Kerry’s handmade bridles with hand set Swarovski crystals in addition to one of his handmade leather barrel reins completed my “Black set”

My “Brown set” is one of Kerry’s breast collars and I already had a brown bridle with split reins!

Finishing Touches

Either set looks great with the saddle!  
To keep everything looking nice and having it all together the billet, stirrups, and strings all get held up by the keeper strap on the back of the saddle.  An alternative to being pulled up on the leathers, scratching the saddle or banging me in the legs when I move it.  The stirrup keepers that are on most Evolutionary Saddles, is a design that is ingenious! Makes me wonder why more saddle companies don’t do this!

I added an extra removable keeper strap for my latigo to help keep it from getting in the way.

All Set for Travel!

Since I don’t have a tack room to keep my stuff, my dust cover is essential to the well being of my saddle staying beautiful.  Once everything is tucked in, all of the leather is protected.  However, having 2 sets of tack proved to be a problem with how to keep it protected and together!  

I came up with a matching dust cover for each set that makes it grab and go! My black tack is in the pink bag and the brown set is in the black bag.  

These covers are based on an extra large carabiner clip that opens inside the bag.  I clip the girth strap clip to the D ring the tugs are attached too and then run the carabiner through both D rings. For the bridle, I clip the top of the ear band and the throat latch to the carabiner and then give the reins one turn so they form an X and clip them in. Fold the bag over the clip, tuck everything up inside and snug the draw string. Everything is together and ready to go!

Because I take my saddle everywhere it seems, I have an “in the car” saddle rack.  It fits in my Ford Focus with or without the seats down.  This is also where the amazing keeper strap Lara developed comes in handy.  Once the dust cover is on, the only thing that touches the bottom of the saddle stand is the Sox! This makes it super easy to get my saddle in and out.

Didn’t Stop There

Yes, I did customize my saddle stand! It’s pink!  The black strap keeps it held together when transporting it.  

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Navigating the Heartache of Letting Go

End-of-Life Decisions for Your Beloved Animals

While our focus here is usually on saddles, there comes a time in every horse, dog, cat, or any pet owner’s journey when we must make difficult choices regarding their well-being.

We understand that as caretakers and loving owners of these wonderful creatures, we will inevitably encounter the challenging decision of whether it’s time for them to cross the Rainbow Bridge. This moment arrives when they face more bad days than good or when illness strikes, demanding a treatment with uncertain outcomes.

These are the choices we make when we embrace the role of caregivers for our furry, feathered, or scaled friends. It’s a responsibility, a privilege, and a heart-wrenching part of our journey as animal lovers and owners.

A Personal Reflection

Recently, I faced the heart-wrenching decision to bid farewell to my cherished mare, Dixie. Having retired her a few years ago, my hope was to watch her gracefully embrace her twilight years. Unfortunately, arthritis had other plans.

As spring blossomed this year, I knew it would be her last summer. The thought even crossed my mind to spare her the discomfort of the approaching warmer months and make the decision right then in the spring. But as any pet owner knows, this choice is never easy or swift.

Dixie wasn’t the first horse or pet I’ve had to make this choice for. Yet, for some reason, this loss weighed heavier than anticipated. The weeks and days leading up to the scheduled moment were filled with a pain that words struggle to capture.

Perhaps it’s because I’ve grown older, gained a deeper understanding of mortality, or maybe it’s because Dixie brought such immense joy to my riding journey, and I wished for her to enjoy an easy life for much longer. Whatever the cause, this proved to be one of the most emotionally challenging farewells to an animal I’ve ever experienced.

Now, what I’m about to say might be misconstrued, but after it was all over, once I knew she was peacefully wandering the fields towards the Rainbow Bridge, I felt a sense of relief. No more second-guessing, no more wondering if she’d be content for one more winter and summer. The answer was no, but that doesn’t lessen the ache of wishing for a different response.

I grieved intensely, shedding tears for weeks leading up to it, allowing all the emotions to flow freely. I believe it’s crucial to let it all out, if only for the release it provides. Yet, amidst the sorrow, there was a profound relief in knowing she was free from the relentless pain she endured. The comfort of knowing she wouldn’t face any more winter bullying, eliminating the risk of slips and falls.

I primarily care for senior horses, two of which are approaching 34 and 35 in January. Then, there are the three in their mid 20s. I understand what lies ahead, particularly for those two old companions I’ve shared nearly three decades with. When their time comes, I’ll grieve deeply, as I’ve known them for all but the earliest years of their lives. And just like Dixie, they’ll tell me when it’s their time, and it will be my time to let them go.

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The True Value of a Well-Fitting Saddle

Introduction: The Cost vs. Value Dilemma

Investing in a well-fitting saddle is a critical decision, yet often overshadowed by other expenses in the equestrian world. Riders and horse owners are willing to spare no expense on their horses, from chiropractic care to massage therapy and vet bills. They diligently address elusive issues causing behavioral problems and pain. However, the significance of a saddle that fits both horse and rider tends to be underestimated.

The Rider’s Impact on Horse and Saddle

A saddle that fits the horse impeccably can become ill-fitting if the rider can’t maintain balance or ride correctly in it. This two-part equation of saddle fit extends to both the equine and their rider.

Calculating the True Costs

To put this into perspective, consider the financial investment involved in horse ownership. While the initial purchase price of a horse is just the beginning, additional costs include a truck and trailer, as well as their maintenance. Regular expenses like vaccinations, farrier visits, wormings, and yearly coggins tests add up. If the horse is boarded, board fees are another consideration. Yet, despite all these financial commitments, the one aspect that directly impacts performance is often overlooked – the saddle.

Choosing a Quality Saddle

What should you seek in a high-quality saddle? Look for a wood tree covered in materials like rawhide, fiberglass, Kevlar, or Durahide. Carbon fiber trees, while touted for their lightweight design, can deteriorate over time due to the rigors of riding. Although Ralide trees are no longer available, they are a durable alternative to traditional wood.

The Leather Dilemma

The choice of leather in a saddle is often driven by aesthetics and personal preference. While leather can significantly influence a saddle’s appearance and weight, the critical factor is how the tree or panels that attach to it fit your horse. Each horse’s unique shape and musculature, influenced by their fitness level and discipline, demand a tailored fit.

The Quest for a Budget-Friendly Fit

It’s entirely possible to find a well-fitting saddle on a budget, but the journey may involve a string of ill-fitting ones, ultimately costing as much as a well-made saddle that retains its value. Well-crafted saddles come at a higher price, reflecting the skills of a dedicated saddler who invests time and care in crafting not just a functional saddle but a work of art.

Custom Saddle Value

A custom saddle that will be priced over $3000 to start usually, will offer more than just materials and build time costs. The investment goes into the quality, craftsmanship, and creativity of the saddler. You’re paying for their ongoing support throughout your saddle’s life, an investment in your horse’s health and longevity.

In conclusion, a well-fitting saddle is an investment in performance, comfort, and the well-being of you and your horse. It’s a vital component that should never be overlooked in the equestrian world.

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Understanding Washing Machines and Caring for Saddle Sox

Not All Washing Machines are Created Equal

It’s important to recognize that different washing machines have distinct functionalities. While this may seem like common knowledge, what might not be immediately evident is the potential harm that eco-friendly washing machines can cause to items like Saddle Sox, wool saddle rugs, and pads.

Traditional Top-Loaders vs. Eco-Friendly Washers

Let’s begin with the conventional approach, the one that has stood the test of time for washing Saddle Sox. For synthetic Sox, a machine wash and tumble dry have always sufficed. This method remains effective for old-fashioned top-loaders. You can adjust the water level (low, medium, or high), and if you’ve forgotten to add an item, it’s easily accommodated. These machines utilize enough water to thoroughly saturate the fibers, and the agitation helps maintain the integrity of the felt. However, the key factor here is the water level.

On the other hand, in eco washers, which determine water usage based on load weight, there’s simply not enough water to adequately wash any saddle sox without jeopardizing the wool felt within. This might not be common knowledge because many, like myself, have a fondness for their old Kenmore washers that allow for manual water adjustment to suit the load type. These machines don’t lock you out once the cycle begins, ensuring that there’s enough water to make the items inside truly wet. I’ve often wondered how a wash cycle with minimal water actually achieves cleanliness, be it for clothes or anything else.

Eco-Friendly Machines and Wool Care

If you own one of these modern, eco-friendly machines, ones that conserve water and lock you out after the cycle initiates, refrain from washing your Saddle Sox, or any other wool felted pad or rug, in them. The water levels will always fall short for proper felt washing.

Caring for Saddle Sox in Eco-Friendly Washers

For those in the eco-friendly washing machine camp, the process for washing your Saddle Sox aligns with how you’d care for Merino Wool or Sheepskin Saddle Sox.

Here’s a straightforward guide:

  1. Brush off any large debris with a grooming brush.
  2. Fill a tub or spacious sink, allowing ample room for full immersion of the sox, with water and Eucalan Soap.
  3. Let them soak for a minimum of 30 minutes, up to overnight. Then, squeeze out any excess water. (Note: If you think they need additional soaks you can repeat this process, never rinsing, until the Sox are clean and then you can spin them out. Personally I have done this up to 5 times on some Sox I have received in for cleaning.)
  4. Place them in the washer, using only the spin cycle to extract remaining moisture.
  5. Finally, let them air dry on a flat surface, ideally in the sun.

Understanding Felt and Water Interaction

Now, some of you might be curious about why a scarcity of water can have such a detrimental effect on felt. The reason lies in the pivotal role that water plays in maintaining the integrity of felt. Without sufficient water, it’s akin to subjecting the felt to repeated shakes by dogs. The fibers begin to disengage, causing shedding and a loss of the felt’s cohesion.

Felting Techniques

To truly grasp how felting occurs, it’s worth noting there are several techniques. One involves the use of needles, a craft in itself where intricate creations are fashioned from felted wool. Another method entails soaking the wool in warm water, followed by agitation and/or needling, and then transitioning to cold water while continuing the process.

The Consequences of Insufficient Water Usage

When water is used minimally, only to slightly dampen the items, all the integrity painstakingly established during the felting process is compromised, resulting in a lumpy, unfelted mess.

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Final Preparations and the Event

Leading up to the race weekend, we undertook a final dress rehearsal to ensure we were fully prepared for the big day’s momentum and the challenges it might bring. Our preparations included assembling at the scenic Big Eau Plaine County Park, undergoing check-ins, vetting procedures, trotting out, and embarking on our initial loop.

Upon returning to the trailhead, we completed check-ins, conducted necessary pulse assessments, untacked our horses, and participated in a mock vet check and trot out. This mid-way point also marked the determination of our ‘out time,’ which signifies when we’re eligible to embark on the second loop.

During our final trailhead check-in, we pulsed down, untacked, and completed our last vet check. A notable activity of the day was introducing our horses to a horse and cart. Interestingly, none of our horses exhibited any apprehension towards the cart, whether it was stationary or moving around the parking area in various directions.

Understanding horse-cart interactions is crucial during races, where encounters with carts are possible. It’s valuable to discern whether it’s safe to remain mounted or if dismounting is advisable. Surprisingly, many horses will trail a cart, though direct head-on or passing interactions can be unnerving for them.

Race Weekend and Event Overview

Thursday

The Louise Reidel Memorial Endurance Race weekend spanned Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Arriving on Thursday, we provided our horses time to acclimate to the surroundings and established our camp. Opting to arrive ahead of our Saturday 25LD ride allowed for a smoother transition into the event.

With our mentor participating on Friday, we attended the initial ride meeting on Thursday evening. These meetings are vital, offering insights into the designated trails and their conditions for the event.

Endurance endeavors often involve volunteering. Sandy and I were designated as scribes for the vets on Friday, an unfamiliar task. Scheduled to begin at 8 am, we wrapped up the day’s activities and rested in our camp for the evening.

Friday – Volunteering

Friday morning commenced with our preparedness for the day’s events. At 8 am, we reported for our scribe duties. Most riders were already on their initial loops, slated to return starting around 8:30 am. Endurance rides, whether 100, 50, or 25 miles, along with Competitive Trail 25s, typically set out between 6 am and 7 am. The first loop, covering 15 miles, was succeeded by a 12-mile second loop. This total of 27 miles taught me that not all races conform to standard distances, a valuable lesson for the future.

As riders returned, our interaction with the vets became more streamlined. We gained insight into their evaluation criteria, which proved immensely educational. Horse care stands at the core of endurance, with horses expected to be in prime condition to undertake another loop after the ride.

Takeaways and Experiences

If there is one thing that Endurance is all about, it is the care of the horse. Ensuring that they are in excellent shape to continue. As the idea is that when you have completed your ride, that your horse would be able to go out and ride one more loop. Not that they should or that you would even want to afterwards, but a well conditioned and cared for horse throughout the race should still be metabolically able to set out again.

I watched a rider pull her horse due to cramping, which I learned is due to a lack of calcium and potassium. Later, I also saw that horse improve after the correct treatment was applied. I also witnessed a horse come in with one of those magical heart rates of 28bpm after pulsing down. Some of that was the fact that the horse was an Arab but it is also a testament of how that rider cared for her horse.

Once we were done with our scribing duties, we headed back to camp to take the girls out for a short ride. See where their heads were at. I discovered that my horse has a touch of ‘race-brain’ which is something that I suspected she would have and was hoping that this little outing would help with that.

Race Day and Insights

Race day brought both anticipation and challenges. The early wake-up call of 4:30 am was marked by restless sleep due to nerves and discomfort. However, we were ready for our 6:45 am ride start time. After tending to the horses and ourselves, we set out with our essentials prepared in the crew area.

Tack preparation, stowing water bottles, and readying for departure were the next steps. Our crew area was meticulously arranged the previous night, complete with mash, hay, electrolytes, water buckets, and shower supplies.

The First Loop: Energetic Beginnings

Our preparations complete, we eagerly mounted up and headed towards the starting timer, ready to embark on our ride. Anticipating a more spirited ride than usual, we were met with just that. Although we managed a calm exit from the campground, the moment the trail beckoned, we succumbed to an exhilarating pace. This speed, though exhilarating, proved difficult to moderate, even as I recognized its unsustainability.

For the initial 6 miles, we maintained this swift tempo, punctuated only by intermittent walking periods. These bursts of speed exhausted Gracie quicker than I deemed prudent. Faced with a choice, I had to decide between resisting my horse’s energy and depleting our resources, or persuading her to decelerate and find a state of calm.

Strategic Decisions: Managing the Ride

Upon completing the first 15-mile loop, our priority was to return pulsed down. Given the challenge of sustaining a steady walk, we chose to dismount and loosen our girths, opting to hand walk the final portion. Although our timing was slightly off, causing us to walk closer to 3 miles, we reached camp to check in.

At our crew area, we untacked and readied ourselves for the pulse check and vet examination. Cooling off our horses, washing them down, and allowing them to consume their mash provided a brief respite. The humans, however, found no rest during this brief interval – it was the swiftest 10 minutes ever experienced.

Following our successful vet check, a 50-minute countdown commenced, with our out time set for 10:30. We returned to the trailer, briefly resting for what felt like a mere 30 seconds before resuming preparations for the second 12-mile loop.

The Second Loop: A More Relaxed Ride

Heading towards the gate for the second loop, our horses displayed less exuberance, hinting at a touch of incredulity towards our endeavor. However, obediently they set forth, albeit at a significantly gentler pace. As we warmed up, we gradually increased our pace, aiming to meet the 12:45pm deadline, which marked the end of the 6-hour endurance ride. Commencing at 6:45am, our goal was to return by 12:45pm.

In this slower-paced loop, we managed to encourage our horses to eat and drink along the trail. Pausing at watering tanks, we allowed our equine companions to cool down and refreshed their faces. During one stretch, a stirrup leather unexpectedly snapped, causing my stirrup iron to drop. Fortunately, I adeptly repositioned it on different holes, allowing me to complete the final 6 miles.

Finding Comfort in Some Lessons Learned

As time ticked away, it became apparent that reaching camp by 12:45pm was unlikely. While we could have pushed our horses to the brink, we chose a more compassionate approach. Opting to ensure their well-being and arriving slightly behind schedule, we embraced this as a valuable learning opportunity.

Once we decided to focus on our own ride, letting go of time pressure, a sense of relief washed over us. As we returned, our horses cooled down and their pulses settled, we acknowledged that we might not have secured a completion, but we had successfully completed the ride. At the crew area, additional crew members provided support, guiding us through the final vet check and offering a comprehensive view of our ride.

The last vet check proved successful, underscoring our diligent care of the horses, despite our delayed arrival.

Valuable Insights from Endurance Riding: Lessons Learned

From this one experience I took away so much I hope I don’t forget anything.

Ride Your Own Ride

Understanding the significance of this phrase truly dawned on me when our group intermingled with another. The dynamics of riding alongside others can be unexpectedly challenging, affecting both you and your horse. Personally, I grew to prefer a more solitary ride.

Midway Moments: Faster Than Time

Amid the race, the midway point materializes as a whirlwind of minutes. Under normal circumstances, it might feel like ample time, but on race day, it rushes by like a fleeting breeze.

Prepare for the Unexpected: Extra Leathers

A simple yet vital lesson: always carry an additional set of leathers. Tack malfunctions can occur without warning. I was fortunate that my leathers held up after adjustment, allowing me to ride back safely.

Practice Makes Perfect: Conditioning Rides

Enhance your horse’s adaptability by practicing double or even triple loops on conditioning rides. They do not need to be long loops. Returning, untacking, resting, then venturing out again conditions your horse for the unpredictability of subsequent loops.

Mastery of Gaits: Speed and Control

Achieve mastery over your horse’s speed and gait duration. This doesn’t imply constant restraint; rather, it means maintaining precise control over the requested pace. Such mastery proves invaluable, especially on the high-speed initial loop.

Prioritize Metabolic Care

Understanding the nuances of metabolic care is crucial. Ignorance led to cramping issues with my horse, Gracie, hours after we concluded our ride. Learning about calcium’s role came a bit late but will influence future preparations.

Navigating Variable Distances

Be aware of distance variability in races. For instance, a 25LD race spanning 27 miles demands a slightly higher average speed. Monitoring speed and time with a helpful app ensures a steady pace.

The Power of Volunteering

Volunteering at rides isn’t just about lending a hand; it’s about gaining invaluable insights. The friendships formed and knowledge gained from these experiences are indispensable. The endurance community’s willingness to assist newcomers is commendable.

Guidance from a Mentor

Seek mentorship for personalized guidance. A good mentor provides not only information but also encourages independent research. Avoid information overload from online groups by focusing on mentor-led learning. I found mine at the Fox Valley Distance Equestrian Team

Preparation and Care: The Ride Takes Care of Itself

Thorough preparation ensures a smoother ride experience. When you’ve prepared well, the ride itself becomes more manageable, allowing you to concentrate on the journey.

Success Beyond Breed: Best Condition Award

Triumph in endurance riding doesn’t hinge on having an Arabian horse. The coveted Best Condition award centers on diligent horse care and meticulous preparation, regardless of breed.

Balancing Fitness: Rider and Horse

Acknowledge the importance of rider fitness alongside horse fitness. Horses naturally maintain fitness better, but humans must consistently exercise. Walking or exercising with your horse not only improves fitness but also nurtures a unique bond.

Solo Riding Mastery

While riding with companions is delightful, it may not optimize performance on race day unless horses are well-matched. Developing solo riding skills is paramount. Mastering confident, independent riding at any speed is vital for event success.

Harnessing Solo Riding Skills

Learning to ride alone is a significant endeavor. Despite the appeal of group rides, mastering solo riding is crucial. This is an endeavor Gracie and I are embarking on, honing our skills and independence for the trail.

Seizing Ride Meeting Insights

Attending the pre-ride meeting is invaluable. It offers essential information that will prove beneficial during your ride, contributing to a well-informed and successful experience.

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Miles…

I’ve been told that as you put on more miles even the most mild mannered horses will spook and you’re going to fall off. I have to admit in the miles that I have done on my most recent horses were relatively fall free. Needless to say it has been a few years since I have taken a dumper.

Yep, as all things with horses, it isn’t a matter of “if” but a matter of “when” your next fall is coming. Mine has arrived. I wonder if it might have been better if I had been bucked off? I know how to duck, tuck, and roll with those, so much better.

The Spook

What I received was a gigantic spook as we were trotting. From out of absolutely no where a “horse-eating” bench sat quietly as we passed. Gracie caught the stationary bench out of the corner of her eye. Now all I remember was hitting the ground. I was told by my two companions behind me that she jumped sideways, I did not.

I apparently hung in the air for a spit-second before unceremoniously hitting the ground on my side. My reins gripped tightly in my hand as the fall was so short that I didn’t have time to let go. Not that it mattered, the reins broke at the slobber straps and Gracie was free.

My two friends were behind me, one grabbed Gracie up while the other made a quick assessment of my faculties asking me questions. I laid there a minute and contemplated life. Since it didn’t even have time to flash before my eyes.

We’re All Good…

No, I was not severely injured. Yes, Gracie is no worse for wear, I can’t say as much about the slobber straps though. Yes, I got up, took control of my horse. I walked over to the trailer to get the spare set of reins, so I could get back on. Walked over to the mounting block, she stood like stone for me. Got back on, we did a lap around the parking lot.

Now that I am home, adrenaline all wore off, ice packs wrapped around by my lower back and obliques, I am wondering if my chiropractor will be able to see me right away in the morning. No, I am not deterred by this. Falling is part of riding, I just wish that it had been on the sand trail rather than the gravel parking lot!

More Miles to Go!

Wear a helmet. I used to not wear one much at all on my mild mannered horses. Gracie is new to me and is pretty spunky and agile horse. I get bolder as I put on more safety gear, which is a good thing and sometimes the results are less than ideal. To be honest, I wouldn’t change a thing.

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Pace Yourself

When conditioning your horse, it’s important to understand that you won’t maintain the same pace as you would in a race. We recently embarked on a conditioning ride, averaging around 4 miles per hour. This exercise was designed to give us a feel for setting a pace during longer trail rides.

Establishing a suitable pace is crucial for planning rest periods for both you and your horse. It involves gauging the distance you need to cover within a specific timeframe without overexerting your equine companion.

During our training session, my mentor emphasized that this exercise was more for us riders than our horses. Horses are exceptional athletes and quickly reach and maintain fitness levels far surpassing humans.

On a typical trail ride, the average speed hovers around 3 mph, with some faster walkers slightly exceeding this pace. However, certain factors like terrain and individual horse capabilities can influence the speed. In endurance races, the average speed ranges from 4 to 5 mph, which may not sound incredibly fast, but it’s faster than most horses’ walking speed. While we don’t train at that pace, we attempted to maintain an average of 4-5 mph over a 7.5-mile trail, and we succeeded.

From this experience, I realized that it was quite a rigorous pace. Comparing it to a similar ride I did in 2019 when I was in poor shape and heavier, I recovered much faster this time around.

Gracie, my horse, has short legs but a sturdy build like a tank. Riding a horse with shorter legs during a demanding day like that was quite an experience. On the other hand, my trail partner Sandy owns a 15.3 hand Paint horse with longer legs. According to her app, she had 128 transitions throughout the ride. However, riding Gracie, I had over 330 transitions, mostly between walk and trot. Believe me, transitions can be incredibly tiring!

Conditioning your horse requires finding the right pace, understanding their capabilities, and adapting to the demands of the trail. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey!

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A Training Ride

I’ve pondered the question of my riding prowess: how fit am I, really? Regrettably, I must admit that I fall into the realm of average. At the ripe age of 50, I can no longer claim the agility of my high school days. Those memories have become distant echoes.

However, I don’t lead a sedentary life either. With eight horses under my care, most of them elderly, requiring special diets and attention. I find myself actively engaged rather than confined to a desk for ten hours a day, like in my previous IT career. Though I must confess, those years behind the desk have left me slightly softened.

During my recent weekend training rides, we covered quite a distance and trotted at a steady “working trot” pace, necessitating the use of posting. I believed this would be an excellent opportunity to improve my fitness level, provided I executed it correctly.

Focused on form and function, I dedicated myself to maintaining a proper posture, posting from the thighs up and striving for a straight alignment. At the time, it felt effortless, aided by the muscle memory that guided my every move. The ride left me fatigued but fulfilled, satisfied with my performance throughout the evening.

Come Monday morning, I rose with a touch of stiffness—a familiar consequence of a vigorous ride the day before. Typically, the discomfort would diminish as I moved about, fading into a mere memory. Yet, this time, it didn’t quite follow the usual script. As the day wore on and evening approached, the aches revisited me. Determined to overcome the discomfort, I sought solace in sleep.

Tuesday morning arrived early, even though I overslept. As I peeled myself out of bed, I couldn’t help but wonder if a truck had collided with me overnight. The previous day’s aches and pains had transformed into a more genuine soreness. A reminder that my muscles, unaccustomed to such exertion, were now voicing their protest. It was as though they were dialing their union representatives, complaining about the unfair treatment they endured during what they expected to be a leisurely ride.

By the afternoon, I had grown accustomed to the sensation of having been roughed up by my noble steed, despite knowing full well that there was no ill will on their part.

Finally, on the third day, a semblance of normalcy graced my being. Time to do it all again!

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My Hard to Fit Horse

My Journey Starts

I had a hard to fit horse, I have probably always had hard to fit horses, still do! I just know more now than I did then. That is the beauty of the equine industry, no matter which part you participate in. There is always something knew to learn.

Dixie is where it all began, a quarter horse mare, with asymmetrical shoulders. I didn’t have a saddle that fit her, all of them pinched and poked her in the shoulders! The hunt began for a saddle that would help, she already had white hairs and they were only going to get worse if I didn’t do something about it.

Is There a Better Fitting Saddle?

I had run across this saddle in my window shopping at the time. After reading the Hillview Farms website front to back I decided that was the saddle I was going to spend whatever it took to put it on my horse. I studied that website, discovered that it came from a long and rich history of trial and error. I am grateful for this, as I felt that it gave us all this superior panel that does what those previous generations of panels were only starting to do. Which was redistribute the weight of the rider over a wider area and flex with the movements of the horse.

I read that 1995 website from cover to cover. There was a books worth of information out there and I devoured it all. I watched that website and planned my custom saddle, since at the time I couldn’t afford one. After waiting several years I saved the money, so I was going to make the trip to buy or order a saddle. Yeah, I bought a saddle off the rack because as soon as I sat in it, it was coming home with me. It is the saddle that I ride in to this day.

I bought the saddle in February. I had a few months to wait to have my first rides in it. Offering to put first rides on all my friends horses just to get a chance to try the saddle on all the different shapes. To see if it lived up to what the website had told me. It certainly did exactly what it said it would.

A Good Fit for Dixie

As mentioned earlier Dixie had asymmetrical shoulders, meaning that one was slightly smaller than the other. Part of this was her compensating for the arthritis that precipitated her retirement, but also because all the other saddles that were used on her put a lot of pressure on that shoulder, pinching her.

As we used the saddle more, her topline evened out now that she had room to move under the saddle. The saddle moving with her. I remember those first rides when I could feel the panels move under me. Dixie also like the saddle, you could tell by the way she moved and behaved.

It Fit All of the Other Horses I rode

I have ridden many miles on a wide variety of horses that have been shaped so differently that for a while I was continually amazed at the results.

So I took the saddle on a real test. The Silver Spur Ranch World Famous Horse Drive in Idaho. My riding partner also took her Evolutionary saddle to ride in on the horse drive too. We rode five days, 20 miles a day over mountainous terrain. We watched the wranglers have to make all kinds of pad variations. Trying to prevent their horses from getting sore, especially over the loin.

Each morning we’d see them check their horses’ backs. Eventually they stopped checking the two horses that we were riding as our saddles weren’t soring their horses. So not only were we comfortable during all those miles, so were the horses we were assigned for the week!

Thank you Dixie!

If it weren’t for her, that started me on the journey to find a better saddle for her, I wouldn’t have found the Evolutionary Saddle. I wouldn’t have wanted to learn how to build them and wouldn’t have ever had the opportunity that presented itself in 2020.

Dixie passed in the fall of 2023, but I continue to test my saddle on any horse or pony that I get the chance to ride and I ride my new mare Gracie in it. Continuing to learn, from the horses, ponies, mules and donkeys that I come into contact with. Each one providing an education that you just can’t get anywhere else.

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Conditioning for Endurance

Gracie & Rango at Big Eau Plaine Co Park

Conditioning – Just Riding?

You would think that it is just about riding your horse and getting them and you fit enough to complete the ride. But there is so much more such as, finishing the designated miles in the designated time limits, with excellent metabolic recovery rates.

I am no expert, I am a trail rider, while good prep for endurance, especially if you ride regularly, more than just the weekends. Although if that is when you can get out for the longest rides, then that is when you can. Those conditioning times during the week could be anything. Such as jogging with your horse, going on long walks together or an hour of arena work.

Hydration!

I have never been as concerned about a horse drinking as I am now. So, I have been learning more about the horse’s pitfalls when it comes to water consumption.

I recently learned that a horse’s thirst triggers are fairly weak, significantly weaker than a human’s. This is an issue because a horse will be working, sweating and losing their hydration. They need to drink on the trail and ideally every time they are offered a drink.

Some horses, like my retired trail horse, Dixie, would take a drink every time it was offered. Unless the ride was so short that she didn’t break a sweat. On the trail, back at the trailer, she was what I thought was a good drinker. So while Dixie, would readily drink whenever offered, my new horse, Gracie, doesn’t seem inclined to accept water when she should be thirsty, even though I’m thirsty myself.

Electrolytes

To entice our horses to drink, we need to provide free-choice salt and minerals at all times. Additionally, during exercise, adding electrolytes can help trigger their thirst response. I’m still learning about electrolytes and their optimal use. So I won’t delve further into the topic to avoid providing inexperienced information.

Snacking on the Trail

I was taught to never let your horse eat while riding. Although I was never a hard and fast keeper to this rule as I got older. Now I am told that while we don’t want our horses randomly stopping to snack on the trail. It is necessary to have your horse eat while you are out there to help keep their gastrointestinal tract operating optimally, even while under heavy work.

How Many Miles?

I always thought that an endurance rider and their horse would need to put on a lot of miles to prepare for a 25 or even 50 mile Endurance ride. This is completely untrue! What I am learning is that it is the quality of the miles as well as the number of them. The quality is far more important than the volume. So during the week when I can, I can take Gracie for a ride around the 4 mile block once or twice. Then take in a 5-7 mile ride a couple of times over the weekend.

When it comes to conditioning a horse they can get into condition and stay in a fit condition far easier than we can. So these short quality rides help build a well conditioned horse that will be able to do a 25 LD (Limited Distance) Endurance ride. Then could do it all again the next day without skipping a beat if it were asked. Which is what my mentor says is an indicator that you have done a good job in preparing your horse.

Gracie’s Progress

In a little over a month Gracie will have been here a year. When she arrived she was obese and was recovering from a very large abscess. So as you can imagine her feet in the front needed some intervention. We gave her the time she needed, put her on a strict diet that I thought for sure would make her hate me. Then we waited and the pounds began to shed off of her. Then I started working with her on the ground, hand walking and showing her the neighborhood.

I was able to start riding her a bit towards the end of the season when her feet were on the mend. Since then I have been waiting for this riding season to get underway. So I can see what kind of horse I have ended up with.

Each time I take her out I realize more and more how lucky I was to have this little mare come into my life.

She started out refusing to load in a trailer, now she is almost loading herself. Next, the deadly fear of cows!!!

Sign up for my email list to keep up with our progress this summer!

Read more about our journey!

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How to Palpate Your Horse

Have you ever been curious about how to palpate your horse? If so, you’re in luck! In this series of videos, Cathy will guide you through the process of performing a full body palpation on your own horse.

Palpating your horse before you ride serves as an essential baseline assessment, allowing you to compare subsequent examinations and identify any changes. Not only does this help you understand how your horse is feeling, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your equine companion.

Over time, saddle fit is often overlooked, even though the horse’s body undergoes changes as they grow and condition. These changes can significantly impact the fit of the saddle. By palpating regularly before and after your rides, you can detect subtle variations. Preventing discomfort or soreness for your horse.

It’s also beneficial to perform a palpation a couple of days after riding. This follow-up examination can reveal any issues that may be caused by your saddle or even your balance in the saddle. Providing valuable insights into your horse’s well-being.

Remember, a horse’s back changes every time it moves a muscle. If a saddle’s rigid tree holds those muscles still, it restricts their full range of motion. Our ultimate goal is to ensure our horses’ comfort. Palpating establishes a baseline by identifying potential problem spots is the first step towards achieving that goal.

So, if you’ve ever wondered how to palpate your horse. Feel free to enjoy the informative videos below and embark on this rewarding journey of understanding and connecting with your horse on a deeper level.

You can also view these videos and more on my YouTube Channel

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Saddle Fitting is a Science and an Art

Saddle fitting is both a science and an art, requiring careful consideration for both the horse and the rider. It’s important to understand that horses and riders undergo changes throughout their lives, making it rare for a single saddle to fit them perfectly for extended periods without adjustments.

Saddle Fitting Evolution

In the pursuit of better and longer-lasting saddle fit, saddlers have employed a combination of scientific principles and artistic techniques. English saddle makers, for example, have made significant advancements in accommodating shoulder movement by keeping the points of the tree high. While this addresses one issue, it simply shifts the pressure of those points higher up on the horse’s back.

The English Saddle

To further enhance fit, English saddle makers shape the flocking of their saddles to match the contours of the horse’s back. However, even with these measures, the flocking can still raise the rider off the horse by over an inch. Considering that a horse’s back undergoes significant changes during training, an ill-fitting saddle can impede progress and cause discomfort. This often leads to the additional expense of regular re-flocking to ensure continuous improvement.

The Western Saddle

Western saddle makers have also made substantial modifications to address the limitations of rigid tree saddles. By incorporating twists and flare into the saddle bars, they have mitigated the pressures exerted by the inflexible structure. Additionally, Western saddles feature fleece, allowing for the use of corrective pads and shims to achieve a better fit, provided the initial fit is already adequate. However, shimming cannot rectify a saddle that is inherently too small for a horse.

An Analogy

To illustrate this point, imagine having a pair of beautiful boots that are just slightly too small for your feet. No matter how many extra socks you add, the boots won’t fit properly. Similarly, a saddle that is too narrow cannot be effectively widened or improved through the use of any type of pad.

In summary, saddle fitting requires a blend of scientific knowledge and artistic skill to ensure the comfort and well-being of both horse and rider. It’s crucial to recognize the limitations of rigid tree saddles and seek professional guidance to find the best fit for your equine partner.

In the videos below, Cathy Tauer of Hill View Farms demonstrates and explains the science and art of Saddle Fitting.

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Perform a Safety Check on Your Saddle

Performing a Safety Check on Your Saddle.  This is one thing that I see neglected often among riders.

This is not for lack of caring for their own safety or their horse’s.  I have found that it is because they were never shown.

I was lucky as a growing equestrian at the tender age of 7, that my riding instructor was thorough as she was tough.

The first things I learned were all about safety.  From how to behave around horses to how to check my tack for wear and straps for integrity.

I found this knowledge has served me well over the years.  Like the old man in Mark Rashid’s books, my first riding instructor shaped me as a horsewoman for ever.  

This short series of videos goes over what a safety check is and how it is performed on a saddle.

Cathy Tauer of Hill View Farms, shows us how to perform a safety check on your saddle and some additional things to look for.   

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Horses In Motion

Have you ever observed your horse or a group of horses in motion, gracefully moving around the pasture? Notice how their muscles flex and ripple along their entire body, from nose to tail. It’s fascinating to witness such fluidity and grace. Yet, despite this natural fluidity, we often place rigid trees on these magnificent creatures.

Throughout the centuries, saddling our horses has primarily focused on the comfort of the rider. As a result, various saddle designs have emerged across different disciplines, creating interesting and diverse saddles. Unfortunately, the comfort of the horse has been somewhat neglected, leaving them to endure ill-fitting attire unlike any other animals.

Of course, saddlers have made attempts in the past century to improve saddle fit for horses. However, there are limitations to what a rigid tree can do for a constantly moving and changing back. On top of that, horses are expected to be obedient and docile while wearing contraptions that we would never subject ourselves to.

A Look at a Horse in Motion

Take a moment to watch the video above and observe the horse’s back, shoulders, and croup. Notice how the muscles ripple beneath the skin as the horse moves? Observe how the horse travels on a curved path, slightly bending from poll to tail. Now, consider how our typical fixed tree saddles, whether English or Western, rest on both the stationary and moving body of the horse.

Saddle fitters do their best to accommodate a moving body with an immovable object that carries weight while in motion. However, there are limitations when it comes to fitting a horse while it’s in motion.

Riders often feel more secure and perform better in a rigid tree saddle, while horses prefer a saddle that doesn’t poke, pinch, or restrict their movement. Is there a compromise that needs to be made?

horses in motion

Will a Compromise Need to be Made?

Watch the video above, focusing on the transition from trot to walk. Observe how the horse’s hind end comes under to carry the body through the transition and settle into the walk. Now, imagine the same transition with a rider in an ill-fitting saddle or a saddle that’s fitted while the horse is standing still. It’s impossible for a saddle that’s fitted to a stationary horse to remain well-fitted throughout the horse’s movement. That’s a fact.

So, what can we do as riders to address this issue? Is there something we can do to help our equine companions carry us better, longer, and more comfortably? How can we prevent shoulder blade pinching, girth galls, and sore spots forming behind the saddle?

Spine Relief

For a while, treeless saddles gained popularity as they eliminated the rigid fixed tree and offered a molded leather seat for a fairly secure feeling. However, they provided no spine relief for the horse.  Placing the rider directly on the horse’s spine and leading to additional back issues caused by poorly balanced riders.

Panels for Horses in Motion

Then came the panel saddles, featuring broad panels that promised more even weight distribution. While providing a secure feeling with their rigid tree, these saddles could fit a wider range of horses and offered necessary spine relief. The whole saddle was effectively lifted off the horse. This marked the beginning of the evolution that led us to the innovative saddles at Evolutionary Saddles.

At Evolutionary Saddles, we have taken the panel saddle concept to the next level. Our saddles feature movable panels that move and flex with the horse’s back as they move and change shape. The sturdy yet highly flexible panel allows for better weight distribution across the entire panel, eliminating the appearance of white hairs and pressure points often seen with rigid tree saddles.

The panel’s layered construction and strategically placed hardware enable the full range of motion needed for optimal performance. It accommodates the rocker, flare, and twist of a horse’s back during every gait and as they grow and change shape. The Evolutionary Saddle takes into account the horse in motion with the rider, resulting in a saddle with a rigid tree and mounted flexible panels. Surprisingly, despite being only 3/4″ above the panels, the rider feels remarkably close to the horse.

Special thanks to Riding Warehouse for the use of the clips from their video How to Lunge a Horse Safely

In summary, it’s crucial to recognize the limitations of rigid tree saddles and explore innovative solutions that prioritize the comfort and well-being of our equine partners. Evolutionary Saddles has embraced the challenge by developing saddles with flexible panels that provide superior fit and spine relief, ensuring a closer connection between rider and horse.

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Flex Panel Saddles: Addressing the Misconceptions

Flex Panel Saddles: Addressing the Misconceptions

The Discussion That Sparked This Post

Recently, I engaged in a brief discussion in a Facebook group regarding misconceptions that surround the flexible panels that are used on Evolutionary Saddles. The group’s admin raised concerns about the saddle’s functionality, comparing it to conventional saddles with their rigid trees. They cited the long history of poorly engineered panels that broke down and caused harm to horses.

These concerns are valid, but dismissing the evolution of the concept entirely due to past failures is a missed opportunity.

My Experiences

As a saddler who rides in my own creations, I’ve witnessed firsthand the benefits of Evolutionary Saddles and the System X panel design. Here, I’ll address the misconceptions and explain why this innovation is worth considering.

An Invitation to Experience the Difference

I’ve invited skeptics to ride with me in one of my saddles or, if distance is an issue, to try one if they ever get the chance. Evolutionary Saddles are engineered with both horse and rider in mind, offering a blend of comfort, functionality, and safety.

Early Encounters with Flex Panel Saddles

Over 35 years ago, I encountered my first flex panel saddle at the Midwest Horse Fair. The concept was intriguing but flawed. Early designs, such as the first-generation Ortho-Flex saddles, were crude. They featured single-layer delrin panels bolted to a fixed tree, which failed to redistribute weight effectively or adapt to a horse’s motion. These shortcomings led to skepticism about the entire category of flex panel saddles.

The Evolution of the System X Panel

Cathy Tauer’s innovative approach revolutionized the concept of panel saddles. She asked a crucial question: Why can’t we do better? The result was the System X panel, which redistributes weight across a larger surface area and accommodates a horse’s natural movement. This design eliminates the pointed pressure and rigidity of earlier models.

The System X panel uses layers of delrin, a material known for its durability and memory. Each layer is designed to distribute weight progressively, while the front of the panel features “fingers” that allow the scapula to move freely. This ensures both comfort and performance for the horse.

My Personal Journey with Evolutionary Saddles

When I purchased my first Evolutionary Saddle in 2014, I was skeptical but hopeful. After riding over 20 horses of various shapes and sizes that summer, I was convinced. The saddle fit consistently well, allowing horses to move freely with no signs of discomfort. Even cinchy horses became more relaxed after just a few rides.

A major test came during a week-long horse drive in Idaho. My riding companion and I used Evolutionary Saddles, while others relied on conventional saddles. By the end of the week, our horses were the only ones without sore backs.

Addressing Common Concerns

Some riders worry that panel saddles create a “perched” feeling, distancing them from the horse. My experience has been the opposite. The deep seat and customizable options, such as a soft seat for a narrower twist, provide a secure and close connection.

Conclusion

Evolutionary Saddles are designed for riders who prioritize their horse’s comfort and their own. Whether you ride for pleasure, endurance, ranching, or competition, a well-fitting saddle enhances the experience for both horse and rider.

Dismiss the myths and discover the innovation of the System X panel. Your horse deserves a saddle that works with them, not against them. If you’re curious, reach out or explore our website to learn more.

This is what Evolutionary Saddles focuses on, function, form and comfort for both horse and rider.

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The System X How does it fit?

The System X construction – Why and How does it work?

The appropriate System X panels for each size of tree are built on to fit your horse and distribute the rider’s weight for a lifetime.

The System X panels are made out of a DuPont material called Delrin.  It is a glass product that the inventor liked to call synthetic stone.  The panels are not  plastic or rubber put on inferior trees that make up the familiar 5-7 year replacement saddle industry. 

The Evolutionary Saddle is built using only quality materials sourced as much as I can here in the USA.

Starting with the solid ponderosa pine saddle tree encased in Kevlar® then finished with DURAhide!  Made by The Precision Saddle Tree Company in Yoakum, Texas.

The tree comes with a limited, conditional ten year warranty. Limited and conditional to the normal use of the tree.

As you can see there is the bottom layer with all the fingers cut in it. Making it the base closest to the horse. 

The next layer also has fingers in it in the front with a long tail that leads to the rear second layer that has a couple of fingers in it as well. 

The final layer that is closest to the saddle tree is the smallest and is where the mount from the saddle tree meets the panel and its weight distributing layers. 

This type of layering is progressive and provides the maximum weight redistribution across the entire panel from front to back. 

The System X Panels – All About the Horse

This is a picture showing the panel construction. You can see that it has a multi-layered, balanced structure. This is very important, because only in this way is it possible to distribute the load over the entire surface.

A single-layer panel, as found under other flexible panel saddles, is flexible only in the ends. It looks nice, but it doesn’t distribute the rider’s weight. You ride such saddles – like any other saddle – on the bars of the saddle tree.

If connected with joints, a single-layered panel could even have disastrous effects. The joints could push through and cause uneven loads in certain places. With our saddles, the tree and supporting surface are independent.

One System Working Together

The panel and tree form one unit, yet they are isolated from each other. Meaning the supporting surface on the horse can assume a shape quite different from the shape of the tree.

When placed on the horse’s back then carrying the rider, the panels follow the laws of mechanics and are forced to conform to the horse’s contour.

This will result in flush contact over the entire surface with even pressure distribution.

The front part of the panel is built with slats. This permits an extra soft shoulder rotation.

Even during movement the panels adapt to the constantly changing shape of the horse’s back.

The slats extend as far as the withers area, so horses with extremely wide withers never feel too much pressure on this area.

The second layer of the panel overlaps with the slats from the first layer. Transferring the forces to the subsequent layers.  Also a simultaneous distribution to the center of the panel through the fingers that extend there.

The remaining course, the panel construction guarantees an optimal distribution over the entire surface. Weight distribution takes place in several “stages.”

The special shape of each layer guarantees an optimal weight distribution over the entire panel – even in the middle.

The Saddle Tree – All About the Rider

Having a great panel and mounting system does not assure that a saddle will perform correctly on your horse or mule.

A traditional rigid saddle tree is designed to offer the rider support. At the same time, it attempts to distribute the riders weight evenly over the horses back.

However, in our case, the Evolutionary Saddles’ tree is designed to offer the rider support.  Then are designed to carry the System X panels which provide the even weight distribution over a moving horse’s back.

Having a saddle tree be too thick, too straight or too narrow – not to mention crooked –would not allow the System X to perform properly.

Which is why the saddle’s bars are designed to carry the panels and the panels are designed to fit the horse.

After a very diligent search for repeatable perfection brings me to The Precision Saddle Tree Company.

Using modern technology not previously employed by the saddle tree industry, Precision Saddle Tree Manufacturing delivers quality and uniform trees.

They use only the best materials. Precisely engineered designs and hands-on production ensure quality saddle trees that last a lifetime.

About The Precision in the Precision Saddle Tree. 

Precision Saddle Tree Company uses three-dimensional scanners combined with CAD software to engineer the pieces that are cut on their CNC Machines.

Their equipment allows parts to be produced that are precisely the same each and every time. The right bar is a mirror image of the left bar.

The right side of the swell is identical to the left side. This unmatched precision provides greater strength and the highest level of consistency in the industry.

Saddle trees are made with Ponderosa Pine with a ground seat, then two different tree coverings are applied.

The first covering consists of hand-laid Kevlar® that is wrapped around the horn, swell, bars and cantle and with a clear coat resin.

The second covering is made using a product called DURAhide™, which is sprayed over the Kevlar®.

What is Kevlar®?

Is a heat-resistant para-aramid synthetic fiber with a molecular structure of many inter-chain bonds that make Kevlar® incredibly strong. 

Best known for its use in ballistic body armor, Kevlar® also has many other applications because of its high tensile strength-to-weight ratio.

What is DURAhide™?

DURAhide™ is a polyurea elastomer that is specifically formulated as a high performance coating designed to prevent damage from moisture, corrosion, abrasion, weather and wear. This material is not only an effective sealer, but adds strength to your tree. DURAhide™ carries a tensile strength of 2300-2500 lbs psi @ 75F. DURAhide™) withstands temperatures from minus 50 to plus 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

I inventory a supply of trees for quicker build times!

The Precision Saddle Tree Company is a stable company able to offer the best saddle tree in today’s industry that carries a lifetime warranty.

Next – Why My Saddle with The System X?

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In Search of a Saddle – A Trainer’s Perspective

Background

Since about 1955, I’ve been searching for a better way to gain my horse’s cooperation, a better way to help him reach his potential, a better way to help him perform with enthusiasm and willingness. 

I know that if something hurts me, I don’t want to do it and neither does my horse.

Effectively I want to encourage his performance, not discourage it.

After the first dozen or so horses that I got in for training, I began to notice that their behavior changed when the saddle change or when I rode bareback.

Bucky

Bucky was one of the first.  A neighbor lady called because her 14 year old buckskin grade gelding that the bought for her ten year old son kept bucking the kid off. 

I went over and they saddled up Bucky and I rode him.  He had a jackhammer trot, it was awful!  No wonder the kid was falling off!  I took the saddle off and rode him bareback, he had a smooth, comfortable trot, for a trot.  Obviously better than with the saddle that they had presented him in.

The Paso Mare

Next a Paso mare came in for training because she wouldn’t hold still under saddle.  Quiet, willing, calm and cooperative on the ground but almost dangerous under saddle.  The owner said, “After you rider her in gain for a while she gets real hyper.” 

I thought I knew the problem. 

We took her to the arena and I hopped on her bareback, she didn’t move. The owner was surprised but didn’t want to admit it so I rode her in gait for a while and then asked her to stop.  She stood still.  The owners couldn’t believe that a saddle could make that much difference.

Cindy and Ruby

A real interesting example was a lady that I’ll call Cindy and her horse Ruby.  Every fall Cindy and 6 of her girlfriends went trail riding for a week.  They rode every day, all day long. 

Cindy had to pull on her reins with all her might to keep Ruby from running.  It didn’t matter if Ruby was at the back of the pack or 2 miles ahead, she wanted to run.  She never got tired and never quit. 

Ruby was huffing and puffing, dripping with sweat and all lathered up at the end of the ride.  But at the next ride, Ruby wanted to run again.  Cindy was scared and Ruby was out of control. 

Cindy and I worked with Ruby once a week for a couple of months.  I showed Cindy how to get Ruby to relax her back and neck, lower her head and respond rather than react.  

Cindy was gradually gaining control and not feeling terrified.  Then Cindy and Ruby went on a long ride down a gravel road with a couple of friends.  The longer they rode, the worse Ruby got. Ruby was dancing sideways, backing down into the ditch, and rearing.  Back to square one it seems.

Cindy called, very discouraged and told me about the ride.  I couldn’t imagine what had gone wrong so I went over to Cindy’s with my saddle and decided that I should ride Ruby and try to figure out what was wrong. 

Cindy, on another horse, and Ruby and I walked down the road on a loose rein for an hour.  Then we turned around and walked home on a loose rein.  Cindy couldn’t believe her eyes.  Poor saddle fit was a big part of the problem.

Now I knew saddle fit affected behavior.

Originally authored in 1997 – by Nancy Wong – Gaitway Paso Finos (Trainer & Recipient of national awards in gaited Pasos)

In 2003 – Revised by Cathy Tauer

Then again in 2021 – Reprinted and revised by Lara Kronberger

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Where is the Flexible Panel Saddle Today?

Companies that are out of business or re-marketing

There have been a lot of changes in the flexible panel saddle industry in the past 40+ years. Here is a brief synopsis of what has happened and where things stand today.

2023 – The Status of the Flexible panel saddle makers

Rocking R, Watson Brothers Saddles, Ozark Mountain Saddles and Saddle Ranch are all out of business. 

Eldorado Saddle & Tack, which is a combination of Amera-Flex, Ameri-flex, 7E, Easy Slide and Eldorado saddles, and American-Flex Saddles of Germany are now made by DK Saddlery.  Which have used photos of the Evolutionary Saddle’s fit on horses backs to sell their brand. 

Unfortunately, there are many other saddle companies doing the same thing of misleading their customers.  

Timberline Saddles are back in business it would appear!  The original owner sold the business and there is another person like myself making sure that the flexible panel saddle continues to evolve and improve!

Do your homework

Ask questions of the company to confirm the legitimacy of the products they produce.

Ortho-Flex Flex Bar System

The New Ortho-Flex Gen II made by National Bridle. 

In 2000 Len Brown released Ortho-Flex, then Acie Johnson bought the company.  He changed the name to, The Ortho-Flex Saddle Works then moved to Arkansas. 

In 2013 Acie Johnson sold the company to Chase Dodd who moved it from Arkansas to Tennessee.  Bringing back the old name of the company “Ortho-Flex” and changed some of the terminology used to describe the panels from Mock to Systems.

In May of 2013, the Chase Dodd family sold the company to Winners Circle, owned by David Thomas.  A parent company to a multi-faceted organization that serves the equine community.

David Thomas, turned over Ortho-Flex to its subsidiary, National Bridle, managed by Bobbie Beach, located in Lewisburg, TN. 

Now the name has been changed back to Ortho-Flex. 

After great deliberation and looking at traditional marketing avenues, using existing materials from other saddle brands, they have conformed to a traditional build on one of the type of Flex Trees. 

Allowing for a fast and very profitable build in order to produce hundreds of saddles a year.  Gone are the panels that allowed for the ever changing back of a horse in motion. 

Traditional saddle fitting practices must now take place by using corrective pads and shims to address the horses shape as they change shape. 

What is next to come? 

You can bet that I’ll keep you posted. 

Speaking of which,I have had inquiries regarding special saddles pads.  Since many companies are now producing them. 

These pads have a white semi-rigid product in them that looks and performs similar to Delrin. 

The plastic material is NOT Delrin but a flexible type of plastic, like the kind you can nail through, you cannot do this with Delrin.  As told to Cathy Tauer  by Len Brown, developer of one of these types of pads called the corrector and then told to me. 

There is another pad, which I prefer, made by the CSI pad company that contains the Flex-Plate.  This plate is the exact design as the System V panel. 

How do these pads perform?

All of these saddle pads perform similar to an independent panel, free of the saddletree and work in conjunction with your current rigid tree saddle to aid in its performance and fit. 

The caveat is, you MUST already have a saddle that fits your horse fairly well, otherwise it will not perform as well as it should and could.

These pads, may require shims to achieve an acceptable fit and without question will help an ill-fitting saddle. 

These pads do have a place within the saddling industry.  Especially for those who have spent thousands on a custom tree saddle made for their horse. Only to find that the saddle they spent all that money on really does not fit.

As with any expensive pad, you must have the option to return it for a refund, if within the time frame offered, in a clean condition, if the product does not meet with the manufactures claims.

A new twist on panels: 

“The Living Bar Saddle”.  Uses a rigid tree, a carbon fiber shell over Styrofoam, with panels filled with carbon fiber tubes.  Some interesting points,  removable fenders and adjustable seat size. 

Make no mistake, this is a PANEL SADDLE. 

Some final words

Always get a trial period to test ride a saddle before getting trapped into product that will not serve the purpose you intended. 

If you cannot get this service, then you do not need the product. 

Remember it is YOUR money and the manufacturers’ claims to performance.

I do hope that this has helped you understand how the flexible panel saddle has evolved over the last almost 40 years.   

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