SMART Saddles

12/06/2026

🔍 Inside the Design: The SMART base panel.

SMART panels are constructed from carefully layered, precision-cut, high-density materials selected for specific performance characteristics.

The internal layers provide support and structure Around these sits a softer outer layer, which forms the interface against the horse’s back.

Together, these materials help support horse and rider, absorb impact, and dissipate pressure throughout movement.

Pressure between two moving bodies is always cyclical, but the SMART panel is designed to reduce peak pressures whilst keeping average pressure values low throughout.

10/06/2026

Secure for the rider. Unrestricted for the horse.

Watch Shady and David in the SMART™ Elite Jump saddle. With a close-contact feel for the rider and a fully flexible design for the horse, every jump happens without restriction.

✔ Close contact feel
✔ Narrow twist with recessed thigh support
✔ Open seat profile

Feel the SMART difference for yourself with our Try Before You Buy Test Ride or Rental Service 📩 [email protected]

05/06/2026

29/05/2026

Inside the Design: Leather

Every SMART Saddle is crafted using a carefully selected combination of premium leathers, chosen for the specific role each part of the saddle performs within the SMART design.

🔍The seat cover and base panel use a heavy-duty soft calfskin leather, selected for its ability to contour smoothly around the saddle while offering lasting durability and comfort over years of use.

🔍The flaps and skirts use a thicker pre-oiled leather with a printed finish. This leather is chosen for its durability and immediate suppleness, allowing the saddle to flex and move naturally from day one without excessive breaking in.

Because leather is a natural material, every hide is unique - giving each SMART Saddle its own individual character.

27/05/2026

✨SMART CUSTOMER STORY ✨

“I had lost all hope of finding a saddle that would match both my horse and I …”

Read Kerry’s story about how SMART Saddles helped in her struggle to find a saddle to fit both their young, short-backed family pony, and adult and child riders.

“I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to my SMART Advisor who came out after an initial conversation I had with the lovely team at the SMART Saddles office. Both my horse and I absolutely love our SMART saddle!”

https://www.smartsaddles.com/news/2026-05-27-the-right-saddle-changes-everything-from-saddle-struggles-to-shared-adventures.php

25/05/2026

❓Did you know?

A healthy back will naturally increase in muscle dimension during exercise.

That’s one reason why flexibility within a saddle system matters so much - thankfully, SMART Saddles are designed to flex and adapt alongside the horse’s movement, rather than restrict it.

It’s also a good habit to check your horse’s back after ridden work. Knowing what is normal for your horse makes it much easier to spot small changes early and take action before they develop into bigger problems 😊

22/05/2026

🏇Disciplines SMART Customer Charlie has tested her SMART Elite Hunter saddle out in:

✅ Hacking
✅ Flatwork
✅ Pole clinics
✅ Showjumping clinics
✅ Cross-country schooling

…and it’s not only looked the part, but performed brilliantly throughout!

Want to discover why so many riders love the SMART Hunter saddle?

🤓Find out more here:
https://www.smartsaddles.com/shop/SMART%E2%84%A2-Hunter-saddle-p247791794

18/05/2026

The SMART Elite Jump saddle and X-over Breastgirth in action, accommodating a super bascule and security for the rider.

David and Shady on their way to another double clear, finishing 10th in a strong Novice at Aston-le-Walls

14/05/2026

MYTH BUSTING: “SMART Saddles need shims to protect the horse’s back.”

Although SMART Shims are an integral part of our fitting system, SMART saddles can often be used without shims where appropriate.

Made from one of the same high-performance materials within the SMART Saddle, when used, SMART shims become an extension of the SMART saddle; part of the system to fine-tune the fit and balance where needed – not to protect the back from the saddle itself.

When to use shims?
• To give additional support where needed to fit and/or balance the SMART saddle.
• A horse with a prominent wither, underdeveloped topline or atrophy may require a full-length shim (Dorsal Supplement Pad) to support the back muscle and give more lift to the saddle.
• Front or rear shims can be used to support the rider in correct alignment, balance asymmetry or areas of weakness.
• Interchangeable, they can be adjusted throughout the year as required, depending on your horses’ conformation and condition.

The aim is always to use as few additional pads possible, but as many as necessary.

• Too much lift can reduce stability and connection
• Too little can allow imbalances or discomfort

The goal is close, even contact and harmonious horse:saddle:rider synchrony.

So, don’t think that simply adding more padding will make your horse more comfortable. Always use SMART Shims and Balance pads based on SMART fitting principles and a part of ongoing assessment as advised by your SMART Advisor.