Scientific Study of Saddle Fit at New Mexico State University

 The Agricultural Marketing group at New Mexico State University has undertaken the first scientific saddle fit study of western performance saddles.
The group will utilize new technology in the form of a force sensor array (FSA) pressure pad to analyze how a saddle applies pressure to the back of a horse. Different levels of pressure will be shown in different colors and in three dimensions.

The focus of the study is on barrel and roping saddles, but the results are applicable to all types of western saddles.

Using this latest innovation in saddle fit diagnosis, New Mexico State University students are examining all aspects of saddle fit, including how both movement and padding affect the distribution of weight across the back of a horse.

The results from examining several hundred horse and rider participants are currently being scanned and catalogued. The group plans to release the results of the study sometime in January. The group is hoping the study will provide new insights into horse and rider comfort and health, as well as challenge some traditional ideas on ways to improve saddle fit.

For information or to access to the results, contact Bill Gorman at New Mexico State University, wigorman@nmsu.edu, or dave@specializedsaddles.com.