About
The Psychology Of: Saddle Fitting Comfort, Communication, and the Horse’s Lived Experience Saddle fitting is typically discussed in terms of measurements, balance, and biomechanics. Far less attention is given to how saddle fit is experienced by the horse — and how that experience shapes behavior, learning, and long-term wellbeing. In this installment of The Psychology Of: webinar series, Kerry M. Thomas, founder of Herd Dynamic Profiling™ and Sensory Soundness™, is joined by Annette Gavin and Rachael Argo of the North American Saddlery School for a guided, expert conversation that bridges technical saddle fitting education with equine psychology. Together, they explore not only how a saddle fits, but what that fit communicates to the horse’s body, nervous system, and emotional state. Themes may include: * How saddle fit is experienced, not just evaluated * The relationship between pressure, restriction, comfort, and emotional response * How discomfort may appear in training or behavior * Short-term soreness vs. long-term patterns that affect confidence and trust * The human role in equipment decisions and ongoing adjustment Saddle fit sits at the intersection of equipment, education, and horse welfare. When misunderstood, horses often communicate discomfort long before it is recognized. Designed for riders, trainers, saddle fitters, and equine professionals, this reflective session deepens awareness of how equipment influences not just movement — but experience, behavior, and wellbeing.
