Saddle trouble

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HorseMad91

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Hiya I'm on the look out for a new saddle but I really struggle with getting saddles that fit me even my saddle fitter says I'm the problem not my horse haha. My problem is I have long thighs for my height so most saddles my knees are in front of the knee rolls unless I get a saddle with a bigger seat but then theres enough room for another person behind me. Has anyone else had this problem or got a suggestion for a saddle?
 
Do you need a saddle with knee rolls? I recently took mine off (they're the velcro ones) and found that my leg position was much better! I thought I'd feel less secure, but I haven't found that at all. But I don't know if this would solve your problem? But something to consider?
 
Never really thought about taking them off I've always used quite big knee blocks as I've got an old knee injury and like the support but I'll give it a go incase it helps. Thanks
 
Try a dressage saddle, or a working hunter saddle . . I'm not saying you have 'man thighs' but us guys are built quite well, and our thighs are large! . .
 
I have a similar problem. Blocky saddles just don't work well.
I currently ride in a Jeffries Falcon which is pretty good and my old Excselle event was very good. I'm afraid it's trial and error though as to what fits best.
 
HorseMad91 said:
Never really thought about taking them off I've always used quite big knee blocks as I've got an old knee injury and like the support but I'll give it a go incase it helps. Thanks
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Nor had I until I went to a clinic and instructor told me to try taking them off! I have had a problem for a long time with my leg slipping back when jumping (in multiple saddles, all with fairly sizeable blocks) took the blocks of and problem (almost entirely) solved! It might not work for you, as I've found everyone suits a different set up, but perhaps something to try, especially if your saddle has blocks that can easily be removed and put back on (mine is a Bates)
 
I am tall with an incredibly long thigh bone. I use Frank Baines jumping saddles as they can fit a longer more forward flap for tall riders. The small knee block is moveable and I always put it as far up as it will go. I do like to ride with very short stirrups for jumping.

I feel your pain, because for years I would always have to have my knee over the front of the saddle.
 
A more forwards flap or a higher set more triangular block that your knee fits under, a flatter seat also helps. Velcro blocks of course are useful but you need the right shaped block too.
 
Thank you everyone it's such a nightmare just schooling my knees are over the front of the saddle and when I jump that just gets worse. I didn't know if maybe an event saddle would help as there more forward cut or just a forward cut gp going to have to have a look around
 
iknowmyvalue said:
Do you need a saddle with knee rolls? I recently took mine off (they're the velcro ones) and found that my leg position was much better! I thought I'd feel less secure, but I haven't found that at all. But I don't know if this would solve your problem? But something to consider?
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I have very long legs and ride with tiny knee blocks - they're off a small child's saddle. I actually feel more secure without knee blocks because they are always in the wrong place and force my knees off the saddle and feel they stick out like wings :( I'm old fashioned in that I do grip with my knees because I ride across rough open country on the whole and it's the best way to stay on!
 
HorseMad91 said:
Thank you everyone it's such a nightmare just schooling my knees are over the front of the saddle and when I jump that just gets worse. I didn't know if maybe an event saddle would help as there more forward cut or just a forward cut gp going to have to have a look around
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Hi there... I know exactly where you are coming from.... I'm not excessively tall but my femurs are longer than they need to be :D... my solution without going completely bespoke (as that can be >£2000) was to ask for a thick foam seat in a 17.5" so it didn't feel like I was slipping around on top. I also switched to a riding club type saddle which was more forward cut and I experimented with the velcro "moon" blocks but I did away with it and so far so good :).

I'm afraid unless you get one made to measure then you do have to experiment and you can get a HM seat saver if you feel you've got too much room up in your seat but your legs are fine. It's taken me and my mare 2 years to get it "right" and I'm feeling like she's found another gear which is so pleasing :)
 
pansymouse said:
I have very long legs and ride with tiny knee blocks - they're off a small child's saddle. I actually feel more secure without knee blocks because they are always in the wrong place and force my knees off the saddle and feel they stick out like wings :( I'm old fashioned in that I do grip with my knees because I ride across rough open country on the whole and it's the best way to stay on!
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I don't think that's old fashioned - sounds correct to me :) you don't want your knees catching in the wind :D
 
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