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Saddle fitting

A saddle fitted correctly brings the horse and rider together as one.

The junction between the horse and the rider is the saddle and it needs to be fitted correctly. I help you and your horse find the perfectly fitted saddle for comfort, health and performance.

Saddle size

The size of the saddle in conjunction with your saddle blanket is important and without an appropriately fitted saddle can have a detrimental effect on your horse. Just like us, having the right saddle size is like a pair of shoes  size alone doesn’t always make it a good fit nor do thicker socks make your shoes more comfortable and can result in injury.

Saddle fit

Fitting a saddle correctly takes into account a range of considerations:

  • the anatomy and physiology of the horse
  • the condition of the horse and seasonal considerations
  • the conformation of the horse
  • the discipline it’s riding in
  • the rider and their ability
  • the type of saddle and its attributes.

My approach to fitting a saddle to a horse and its rider is systematic. I am staunchly independent and am not affiliated with any brand. I will always first assess your current saddle to see if I can get it to fit correctly prior to recommending a new saddle.

Saddle fit report

I produce a Saddle Fit Report with every appointment that lists the fit of the saddle as well as any adjustments that are required. My Saddle Fit Report lists all the changes that are required to the saddle, saddle pad and girth for the best fit.

Appointments usually require 1 hour in an initial consultation with a further follow up appointment once all adjustments have been made to check the fit. The assessment requires the rider of the horse to sit in the saddle (girthed up) during the appointment as the rider is an integral part of the fitting process.

Book a saddle fitting appointment

If you’re in the Ballarat region and along the Western Highway area from Ballan to Stawell area of Western Victoria and would like your saddle professionally fitted or reviewed, contact Martin Godwin Equine.

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View my other services Hoof Trimming  |  Boot Fitting  |  Equine Massage

The people who trust me with their horse

Martin builds a bond with the horses and they interact well with him. The appointments are always met and he is never late. Martin can be trusted to look after your equine friends to the highest standards of hoof care. Certainly recommend!

S. Ryan – Great Western

A farrier that has a diary, books you in advance and turns up!  Martin has a fabulous relationship with the horses and his attention to detail and work overall is to be applauded. The horses’ wellbeing is his priority, couldn’t be happier.

H. Tatchell - Ballan

I have been using Martin Godwin for a very long time. His very reliable and always on time.  Excellent with horses, as he truly understands them. My big babies truly love him. I am a Clydesdale breeder and my horses feet are well cared for.  Martin truly is a genius with horses’ feet.  I highly recommend him. I have never ever been disappointed with Martin.

C. Caps - Beaufort

Martin has been trimming all of my horses’ feet for many years. He is a man of great integrity, always reliable, punctual and honest.  He demonstrates compassion to all horses and humans.  Everyone of my horses’ feet have improved considerably in condition and strength with Martin’s expert trimming and advice.  His dedication to his craft and the safety of the horse and owner during the trimming process is commendable.  With the added bonus of great conversation, he is my first recommendation as a barefoot trimmer.

J. Van Opstal – Ararat

If you want a farrier who is always on time, kind, patient, trims and balances their hooves to perfection. Plus has knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the lower limb and teaches you and your equines every visit. Martin Godwin should be your farrier as he has been my farrier for 13+ years for my Clydesdales, mini ponies, mini donkeys and mammoth donkeys.

C. Trotter - Winchelsea

I’ve been using Martins service for the past 6 years and I have always found him to be reliable, professional and has a fantastic manner with my horses and all their different personalities. Martin is very knowledgeable and keeps up with modern practices which greatly benefits my horses in their disciplines. Highly recommend Martin.

C. Blackley - Ararat

Martin has been trimming my horses for 6 years now. He does a fantastic job (even with my sometimes difficult horse). Both my horses and dogs love him and he’s always on time. Martin would easily be the most reliable farrier I’ve dealt with in over 25 years of owning horses.

S. Morris – Mt Egerton

Martin, Best Trimmer Ever!  8 years ago, I made the decision to go barefoot and after extensive research on qualified barefoot trimmers, I decided to contact Martin. I have been using Martin ever since and I continue to be impressed with Martin’s professionalism and reliability. My horses’ hoofs have never looked better, Martin continually demonstrates genuine care and pride in his trimming and hoof care of my horses. Martin has excellent horse handing skills and I cannot recommend him highly enough.

M. Cooper - Gordon

Martin actually really cares about the horses and is passionate about his work. He is very reliable, always here when he says he will, so no waiting around for him! We always have a laugh and some good discussions. But best of all my horses are always sound. Thanks Martin!

L. McLaren - Ballan