Saddle fitting is without a doubt one of the most crucial aspects of any equestrian sport. A badly fitted saddle can cause a huge amount of discomfort for both horse and rider, resulting in poor performance.

‘Practical Saddle Fitting' offers a comprehensive guide to saddling horses and ponies for all disciplines including showing, jumping, general purpose, polo, western, endurance, dressage and eventing. Written by Ken Lyndon-Dykes, a qualified saddle fitter who was also a top event rider, this book really is a bible in saddle fitting.

The introduction states that "Saddling is a craft, a science and an art" and this is further explained under clear sections which go into considerable detail. Chapters cover the general structure of the saddle, types of saddle, saddle fitting, common fitting problems and solutions, and holistic confusion and remedial fittings. Two short chapters at the end touch upon the responsibilities of saddle fitting and some observations of a saddle fitter.

The book is available in full colour hard back and is beautifully illustrated with over 160 photos that really help explain the text. At the back of the book there is also a comprehensive appendix. Readers could either dip in and out of the book or read it in one sitting. Either way, it is incredibly informative and definitely a worthwhile read for any equestrian enthusiast - especially if you are in the process of buying a new saddle!

Lucy Jones,