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

Saddle Research Trust supports landmark pilot study to address effects of rider weight on equine performance

To date little research has been conducted on the effects of rider weight on equine welfare and performance. To address the shortfall World Horse Welfare, the Saddle Research Trust, the British Equestrian Federation and a number of other organisations helped to fund a pilot study last summer, the results of which have now been analysed.

Dr Sue Dyson, Head of Clinical Orthopaedics at the Animal Health Trust’s Centre for Equine Studies, Newmarket, who led the study said: “While all the horses finished the study moving as well as when they started, the results showed a substantial temporary effect of rider weight as a proportion of horse weight. The results do not mean that heavy riders should not ride but suggest that if they do they should ride a horse of appropriate size and fitness, with a saddle that is correctly fitted for both horse and rider."

Click here for more details on the study and its results.

Saddle Research Trust 3rd International Conference. Horse, Rider, Saddlery Interactions: Welfare & Performance - Saturday 8th December 2018

Advance tickets on sale now: Save £50 until 31st May 2018

Join us for the 3rd Saddle Research Trust International Conference, supported by World Horse Welfare, 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, including:

• Dr. Sue Dyson

• Professor Hilary Clayton

• Professor Pat Harris

• SRT Director, Dr. Anne Bondi

• Professor Lars Roepstorff

• Professor Renee Van Weeren

• Dr. Thilo Pfau

• Dr David Marlin

Plus Special Guests:

• Richard Davison

• Lucinda Green

Click here for full details and booking information.

Equinology Saddle Fit Courses with SRT Director, Dr. Anne Bondi

Principles of Saddle Fitting, 4 day course with Dr. Anne Bondi BHSI, Saddle Research Trust Director.

International courses now confirmed :

• America: 29th July to 1st August, 2018

Click here for full details.

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.