Meet Lizelle
With over 27 years of hands-on experience in training and working with horses, I’ve dedicated my life to understanding their behavior, movement, and what truly makes them thrive.
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As a qualified Master Saddle Fitting Consultant, I combine expertise in equine welfare with advanced skills in saddle fitting, reflocking, and repairs. My mission is to help horses and riders to create a partnership built on harmony, trust, and confidence.
What to expect during a fitting
I come to your stable or home to help ensure a perfect fit. This service is customized to address the unique requirements of both you and your horse.
1. Initial Assessment
We begin by observing your horse’s conformation, movement, and any specific areas of concern. We also take measurements and templates. This helps us identify the unique requirements for your horse’s saddle fit.
2. Fit Evaluation
If you already have a saddle, we’ll assess its fit, checking for pressure points, balance, and overall comfort for your horse. I will also assess your position and balance in the saddle, as this plays a crucial role in how well the saddle fits both you and your horse.
3. Saddle Trials
If you’re trying new saddles, we’ll test multiple options during the saddle trials. Each saddle will be carefully evaluated in motion to see how it affects your horse’s movement and comfort.
4. Conclusion & Recommendations
At the end of the fitting, you’ll receive personalized recommendations on saddle adjustments, new saddle options, or further fittings, depending on what’s needed.
Throughout the process, I’ll explain each step, ensuring you understand how saddle fit affects your horse’s comfort and performance. Together, we’ll find the best solution for you and your horse.
"A properly fitted saddle is like a handshake; it’s the first step in communication and trust between horse and rider."
– Linda Tellington-Jones
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Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on saddles?For new saddles, warranties are provided through the manufacturers, and I’ll make sure you understand the coverage. For second-hand saddles, I ensure each one is carefully inspected for quality and fit before offering it for trial. However, second-hand saddles may not come with a manufacturer’s warranty.
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What happens if we don’t find the right saddle during the first trial?If the saddles we trial don’t work perfectly, we will continue searching for the best options for your horse. My goal is to ensure your horse’s comfort and performance, so additional sessions are only recommended if absolutely necessary. I strive to find the right saddle as efficiently as possible, while ensuring it’s the best fit for both you and your horse.
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What should I bring to my saddle fitting?If you have a current saddle, please bring it along. It’s also helpful to bring any tack you usually use, such as bridles, girths or saddle pads. I’ll also need to see your horse in motion, so riding attire is recommended for the trial session.
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Can you adjust my current saddle?In many cases, adjustments like flocking changes, gullet adjustments, or shimming can improve the fit of your current saddle. During the fitting, I’ll carefully assess whether your saddle can be modified or if a new saddle might be a better solution for your horse. For specific brands, such as Erreplus, or adjustments that require specialized equipment like a saddle tree machine, I’ll refer you to a trusted partner or the regional brand representative to ensure the best results
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How long does a saddle fitting take?The duration depends on the package you choose. The minimum time required is 1 hour, and more time will need to be scheduled when doing trails of multiple saddles.
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What is the difference between flocking adjustments and shimming?Flocking adjustments involve adding or removing wool or synthetic material from the panels of the saddle to improve its fit. Shimming uses small padding inserts placed between the saddle and saddle pad to temporarily adjust the saddle’s balance. Both options can help improve fit, but the best method will depend on your horse’s needs and the saddle type.
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Do you travel for fittings?Yes, I aim to serve the majority of the Garden Route area. I am based in Plettenberg Bay so I am more flexible closer to this area. However, we can arrange a fittings in your region, but will need to charge a travel fee. However when multiple horses are scheduled this can be divided amongst the group.
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How often should I schedule a saddle fitting?I recommend scheduling a follow-up assessment after a few months with a new saddle or any time you notice behavioral or performance changes in your horse. Regular check-ups every 6 to 12 months help maintain optimal saddle fit as your horse's body changes.
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Can I ride before the fitting?Please refrain from exercising your horse before our session. I need to understand the horses' behaviours during the fitting, and a horse that is tired will likely not move or communicate in the same way. Since we will be trailing saddles, your horses need to be dry. Please ensure they are not sweaty or wet (from a shower) for our session.