The Saddle Research Trust, a charitable organisation, has been established to scientifically and objectively lead and support research into the influence of saddles on the performance of horses and riders.

Equine back problems are often attributable to saddles, yet the design and function of saddles has been little researched.

Back and saddle issues are major factors associated with loss of performance, injury and welfare.

Through a variety of education programmes designed to raise awareness and disseminate knowledge globally, the trust aims to provide support and advice both to the horse owning public and industry professionals.

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Latest News

Could your horse help save others from overweight riders?

Leading equine welfare charities, World Horse Welfare and the Saddle Research Trust, have pledged support and financial backing for the latest ground-breaking study which aims to help develop guidelines for appropriate rider weight for horses.

The study is being run in collaboration with the Animal Health Trust (AHT), who are asking owners to volunteer their horses to help

Click here for further information on the project and how to volunteer.

Saddle Research Trust Scholarship 2017 Award Winner Announced

Rebecca Howsam, who has a degree in Equestrian Psychology and Sports Science, has won the first scholarship to be awarded by the Saddle Research Trust (SRT).  The scholarship attracted many applicants from around the world including candidates from Australia, New Zealand, Finland, USA, Czech Republic and Spain.

The scholarship covers all fees to enable the successful candidate to attend the “Principles of Saddle Fitting” certification course to be held at Writtle College in August this year. The course, delivered by Dr. Anne Bondi BHSI, Director of the Saddle Research Trust, focuses on the three-element interaction of horse, saddle and rider. The content provides a wide-ranging mix of theory and practical sessions that give an evidence-based approach to practice.

"Rebecca said: I am thrilled to have won this superb SRT Scholarship. It will be highly beneficial for my future career because saddles and saddle fitting, particularly in relation to the improvement of equine performance and welfare, are the areas that I intend to pursue."

Click here to view Press Release with further details.

Save the Date: 3rd Saddle Research Trust International Conference

We are delighted to announce that the date and venue of the next conference have been confirmed: Saturday 8th December 2018 at the De Vere East Midlands Conference Centre, NG7 2RJ, Nottingham, UK.

We hope that you will join us for the 3rd Saddle Research Trust International Conference, which promises to be the biggest and best yet. Building on the ground-breaking research and progress achieved since the inaugural conference in 2012, the latest research will be presented by world-renowned leading experts in their fields.

Tickets will go on sale later in 2017, with special early-bird offers and discounts for SRT members.

Click here for more information.

SRT referral scheme to help horse owners combat saddle related problems

To support the need for an independent, expert advice service, the SRT has a referral scheme to assist horse owners in reaching a definitive reason for saddle related problems.

Having been in operation for some time now, we have have added a testimonial section to the scheme webpage so that you can read stories of how the scheme has made an impact on horse owners.

The referral scheme is exclusive to SRT Members and Friends of the SRT (click here for more information on membership). The case will be assessed by the SRT and if deemed suitable, referred to the SRT Veterinary Advisor who will carry out an independent examination of the horse, saddle and rider. A written report will be provided for the owner and their associated professional practitioners (veterinary surgeon, physiotherapist, saddle fitter etc).

Click here for more details on the scheme, instructions on how to apply and to read the testimonials.

For full details of SRT news and events click here.