Judith Richardson Master Saddle Fitting Consultant

18/08/2026

So let me tell you what I do and some of the questions I get asked ………..

Q: Do you sell saddles ?

A: No sorry I don’t (saddles sell themselves, if it’s the perfect fit for you and your horse )

Q: What’s the best make of saddle you do?

A: The best make is ……. What ever your horse goes best in, which is comfortable for the horse and rider, in what ever discipline you choose to compete in.

Q: I don’t compete I’m “just a happy hacker”
So any saddle will do as long as it “sort of fits” ?

A: No, absolutely NO it’s just as important that your saddle fits you both well, whether you are three day eventing or hacking.

Q: I’ve got a youngster so just want a cheap saddle to pop on until they finish growing, that’ll be okay won’t it ?

A: No making sure your youngster has a positive experience with a saddle straight away is the correct way to go about it.
Many saddles now are adjustable so can be regularly checked and changed every step of the way ensuring that having a saddle on is always a positive thing.

All of the above is what I do, making horses and riders happy everyday x

14/07/2026

Yesterday was a brilliant day catching up with NM Equestrian Naomi Mac alongside Bev Jenner. We started off by fitting Harley, Naomi’s young horse, with her trusty Bates Victrix jump saddle. This faithful piece of kit has proven its versatility, having already been used on three or four different horses with ease.

Next up was Rio, Naomi’s newer ride who has been on a winning streak in competitions, taking first place in almost everything. For him, we chose a brand-new Bates Apex jump saddle. Its slightly more forward-cut design and performance panel help to free up the shoulders for better movement, especially over fences. The flap lock technology keeps the saddle flap firmly in place, preventing wrinkles under the rider’s leg – a must when tackling big tracks.

One of the best things about Bates Saddles is their adaptability, making it easy to adjust them for both horse and rider.
Looking forward to seeing lots of pics of these great two horses as they progress.

07/06/2026

07/06/2026

Good day at our combined clinic Speetley Equestrian Centre with NM Equestrian Bates Saddles Bev Jenner lovely to see everyone

Thank you to everyone who participated 👏🏼

01/06/2026

A few spots left

11/05/2026

🐎 Performance Saddle Fitting & Jump Clinic 🐎

📅 Saturday 6th June
📍 Speetley Equestrian Centre, S43 4TA
💷 £60 per horse

A unique ridden clinic designed to help you enhance both horse and rider performance through correct saddle fit and expert coaching.

Join us for a hands-on experience with:
✨ Judith Richardson MSFC Saddle Fitter
✨ Naomi McAleese UKCC Level 3 Coach

What’s included:
✔️ Full saddle fitting assessment of your current saddle
✔️ Opportunity to be fitted in the Bates Apex Jump Saddle or a saddle of your choice
✔️ 30 Minute, private jump lesson to feel the difference in performance
✔️ Optional discussion on bridle and bit fitting after your session

This clinic gives you the chance to test, ride, and understand exactly how saddle choice impacts comfort, balance, and performance for both horse and rider.

🚨 Limited spaces available
🚨 Booking essential
🚨 Individual bookings only- one horse per session

📩 Message now to book your place
Bates SaddlesArena SaddlesNM Equestrian

18/04/2026

Great afternoon with my sponsored rider Rachel Dye Para Showjumper now riding in both the Bates Saddles Advanta and the brand new Bates Apex. Thanks also to NM Equestrian

03/04/2026

Happy Easter everyone xx

02/04/2026

APEX Top of its game …..