Side saddle questions

[FFAQ]

Hi! I posted a few months ago about starting side saddle lessons and now I'm planning to hire a saddle with a view to buy in 6-12 months. I've had to buy a balance strap as my horse is a shire and the saddler doesn't have one big enough. My question is, what other equipment is immediately essential? The saddler reckons he can adapt my existing GP girth to get me started. Do I need a side saddle numnah or can I make do with an astride numnah for now? I have a pro-life multi riser pad that I was using under the GP saddle - could that be useful if needed? I thought I'd invest in a saddle cover to help keep it in good condition.
Many thanks in advance for any advice. Side saddle looks like an expensive way to ride, so any money-saving tips or tips on essential equipment will be gratefully received!

 

[Nevergrewup]

Hi!

Great to hear you've joined us sideways ladies - and on a Shire!

A GP girth is fine to start with so long as it won't rub (lots of side saddle riders use wintec chafeless girths for everyday as they're soft and breathable).Any numnah is fine so long as it fits where it needs to - but bear in mind that side saddles are more likely to slip so you may might need a stickier gel pad or similar if the saddle starts to slip a bit. Assuming the SS is fitted by the saddle owner to your horse, don't add a riser pad or anything else that might change the way it fits unless they suggest it - the fit of side saddles is really specific.

There are a few fleece side saddle covers on ebay and it's a good idea to have one, but your main sources for all side saddle stuff are http://www.sidesaddles.co.uk/ and https://www.theoldhuntinghabit.com/. The Side Saddle Association also has an old school 'For Sale and Wanted' list http://www.sidesaddleassociation.co.uk/salewantedadverts.asp

Side Saddle Association Areas (regions) often have their own for sale page on their area websites - you can find out which Area you live in here http://www.sidesaddleassociation.co.uk/areas.asp Please consider joining the SSA as local Area groups are really friendly - most hold Area shows with a Walk and Trot class for new sideways riders and there are often clinics, lectures and socials too. It's a great way to access knowledge, contacts and support to help you progress in your side saddle riding. The membership fee can easily pay for itself with great value lessons at Clinics and lots of brains to pick!

Whatever you do, don't hang your girth straight off the leaping head (bottom pommel) as the stirrup tread can rip the leather. And keep your right shoulder back! x

 

[FFAQ]

Thanks sidewaysonacob! That's really great advice! I'm hoping the saddle fitter can come out soon so I cn get going on my own horse!