Short-backed Cob - tell me...

[Coblover63]

I've had so many saddle woes over the last 4 years with my traditional cob mare. Having finally got tough with her "rotund" shape, she's now down 100kg since last August so unsurprisingly, the custom-built saddle I had made for her last year (saddle number 8, by the way!) no longer fits. But I was horrified to learn - from a new Master Saddler fitter - that she's actually very short-backed and the 17.5" saddle we've been using is actually an inch too long. I can't criticise previous fitters because until recently her last rib was very hard to find!

What I'm asking is if there are any average height/build adults who successfully ride in a 16.5" saddle? I'm worrying that our riding partnership may be over. Thanks

 

[Hepsibah]

I used to ride in a 16.5" saddle as a 5ft6" 10.5st person.

 

[The Xmas Furry]

I currently ride in a 16.5 saddle on a 14hh, she cannot have anything longer.

 

[JCW]

I’ve got a short backed horse and I’m pretty sure the saddle fitter got me a Black Country 17 inch saddle on a 16.5 tree.

 

[Melody Grey]

Yes- I’m 5ft 6 and was using a 16.5” saddle with out short backed cob- it was dressage cut which I think probably helped with my long legs!

 

[vmac66]

I have a 15hh short backed mare and ride in a 16.5 vsd saddle. I'm 5ft 4 and just over 9st.

 

[saddlesore]

Yep, I’m 5’8” and used to ride in a 16.5” ?

 

[Rowreach]

Depends on the length of your thigh really.

Have you thought about having a trial with a Solution fitter? You would be able to use a slightly longer saddle if it was treeless (and fitted to you and the horse).

 

[Sossigpoker]

My 15hh cob is short backed and can take a 17 inch saddle max. I'm 5ft7 but with long thighs and in my previous saddle (Kent and Masters) just didn't have room! My lovely saddler found me a Lavinia Mitchell saddle which has a really wide seat and despite being 17 inch , I've got plenty of space in it!
So I'd suggest looking for a wider seat and wide over the twist as that will take some of your thigh length despite the seat length being shorter.