Why Riders Choose Me
Every saddle fitting is carried out with your horse’s comfort, performance and long-term soundness at the heart of every recommendation.
As an SMS Qualified Saddle Fitter, with extensive training through the International Academy of Saddle Fitters and a Level 5 Diploma in Equine Biomechanics, I assess the whole horse—not just the saddle.
As an independent saddle fitter, every recommendation is based solely on what’s best for your horse and your goals—not sales targets or brand loyalty. I work with premium brands including Amerigo, Equipe, Mattes, Menetics and Prolite, ensuring every recommendation is tailored to your individual needs.
✔ SMS Qualified Saddle Fitter
✔ Level 5 Equine Biomechanics
✔ Independent Advice – No Sales Targets
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Initial Discussion
We discuss your goals, your horse’s history and any concerns before carrying out a thorough assessment.
Static Assessment
Your horse’s conformation, musculature, symmetry and current saddle are assessed before riding.
Dynamic Assessment
Your horse is assessed in motion, both in hand and ridden where appropriate, to evaluate comfort, balance and performance.
Saddle Adjustments
Where suitable, adjustments such as flocking, balancing and minor fit alterations can be made to optimise saddle performance.
Recommendations
Where suitable, adjustments such as flocking, balancing and minor fit alterations can be made to optimise saddle performance.
Ongoing Support
Guidance on saddle care, future rechecks and ongoing support to keep your horse comfortable.
Could Your Horse Benefit from a Saddle Check
Subtle changes in your horse’s way of going or behaviour can often indicate that your saddle no longer fits as it should. Watch for these common warning signs:
Your horse becoming reluctant to go forward
Changes in behaviour when tacking up
Uneven sweat marks
Muscle loss or changes in shape
Rider discomfort or imbalance
Saddle slipping or rocking
Early assessment can prevent minor fitting issues from becoming long-term performance or comfort problems.
Not sure if your saddle needs checking? I’m always happy to advise whether it’s the right time to book an appointment.
Book Your Saddle FittingFrequently Asked Questions
Most appointments take between 1½ and 2 hours. This allows plenty of time to assess both horse and rider, discuss your concerns, carry out static and ridden assessments, and make any appropriate adjustments.
Where possible, yes. Watching you ride helps me assess how the saddle performs in motion. If riding isn’t possible due to weather, injury or your horse’s circumstances, I can still carry out a thorough static assessment and advise accordingly.
Most horses benefit from a saddle check every 4-6 months. However, younger horses, those in regular work, changing shape, returning from injury, or gaining or losing weight may need more frequent assessments.
Yes, where appropriate. Many saddles can be adjusted through flocking and width adjustments to improve their fit. If adjustments aren’t suitable, I’ll explain why and recommend the best course of action for you and your horse.
If your current saddle isn’t suitable, I’ll explain why and discuss the most appropriate options. Where possible, adjustments can be made. If a different saddle is needed, I’ll guide you through the available options with no obligation to purchase.
Yes, I cover the North West and surrounding areas. If you’re unsure whether I travel to your location, please get in touch and I’ll be happy to let you know.
Areas Covered
Based in Manchester, I provide professional saddle fitting services throughout the North West and surrounding areas. If you’re unsure whether I travel to your location, please get in touch—I’m always happy to advise.
What My Clients Say
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I had Francesca to fit a saddle for my 5 year old and she was fabulous, very thorough and patient with my sensitive horse. Would recommend her to anyone :)
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Amazing service, very flexible and will come out to fit your schedule. Lovely girl and very thorough and wants the best for you and your horse. Very happy with my saddles.
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fab saddle fitter. takes all the time needed and explains everything. I purchased a new equipe saddle and love it ! will be using Fran from now on for my girls. 100% recommend
