reach your potential

Most modern horse riders understand the importance of a properly fitted saddle but unknowingly sabotage their own riding and the performance of their horse by missing the signs of a sub-optimal fitting saddle.
A VH Saddlery consultation & trial will help you determine if your saddle is having a negative impact on your riding and your horse's performance or well-being. Victoria will offer advice on what options will better suit you and your horse, and give you the opportunity to try a range of saddles for yourself. Saddle trials can be conducted in-person, or arrangements can be made to send saddles to remote areas for virtual consultations.

we have been lead to believe

Fitting a saddle is as easy as changing a gullet and re-flocking.
BUT THERE IS FAR​ MORE TO IT THAN THAT. ​
As riders we are always quick to blame ourselves for poor balance, insecurity in the saddle and ineffective use of aids. But a poor fitting saddle will make it...

impossible 
​to achieve optimal positioning in the saddle.

how can vh saddlery help?

As a veterinarian, International competitor and top-level dressage coach, Dr Victoria Hamilton has unique and extensive expertise of equine anatomy and rider biomechanics. She has conducted extensive research to better understand how saddles impact rider position and the natural movement of horses, and uses this knowledge to help riders find the best solution in saddlery. 
Our consultations involve an in-depth evaluation to determine what issues, if any, your saddle is causing, and recommendations of what saddles would be better meet the needs of you and your horse. 

Unmatched knowledge

Victoria's knowledge is second to none, ensuring the best result for every horse and rider.

world class saddles

All VH Saddles have undergone stringent testing to guarantee the highest quality and superior fit.

horses come first

The comfort and well-being of your horse is our first priority and will never be compromised. 

what does a consultation involve?

The step by step process of finding the perfect saddle for you and your horse

step one: Initial phone Consultation
We arrange a suitable time for an initial conversation via phone or email to find out some details about you and your horse:
  • Horse details (age, breed, conformation, past injuries, current workload and training, and relevant history) 
  • Human details (past injuries, current experience, level of training, competition, main activities/disciplines, goals) 
  • Saddle details (current and past saddle models, brands and sizes, personal preferences, issues/challenges and budget)
Sometimes we may request some photos or videos of your horse, both under saddle and untacked, particularly if you live rurally or remotely. 

Step two: face-to-face
​Saddle Consultation 
Riders able to travel with their horse will be invited to attend Victoria's property in Sawyers Valley for a face-to-face consultation. During this consultation Victoria will: ​

  1. Assess your horse for signs of pain and/or lameness. This will help determine whether your current saddle is causing issues for your horse, what problems it may be causing and whether you horse is fit to proceed with trialling saddles
  2. Look at your horse's traits and current condition to determine any traits that may impact the suitability and fit of certain saddles such as muscular atrophy, size of shoulders, length of back etc
  3. Further discuss your requirements as a rider including personal preferences to help narrow down which brands and models may be more suitable for you and your horse
  4. ​Next, Victoria will try a number of saddles on your horse to work out the best trees for your horse.
  5. Then you will be asked to ride in these different saddles.  Victoria watches the horse's body language (such as tail swishing, mouth activity, facial expressions and body tension) and movement patterns (such as moving more freely, more up hill/downhill, bending, not tracking up, not straight through the body or even just in a hind leg,  uneveness, irregularities and other gait impurities). At the same time she will look at your position and balance as a rider and how the saddle helps or hinders this.  Victoria asks the rider what they do and don't like about each saddle to build a picture of what is going to be the best saddle overall. So often parts of a saddle can be tweaked or ordered differently at no extra cost to give the rider the exact feel they are after. The number one thing is to get the absolute best tree for the horse's back and work from there.
  6. ​This initial saddle testing takes approximately 1.5 hours by the end of which, with Vicky's help, you will have determined your top picks. We generally recommend organising to ride in each of your (and your horse's) favourites again on another day and usually in reverse order. Sometimes horses go better at the start of the trial when they are more energetic whereas others take longer to settle and improve as time goes on, so we need to know that the change in the way they worked was truly due to the saddle and not any other factor. At this second trial it is important to test some of the highest movements you train with your horse, if not already done in the initial trial.  It is often at this point riders are blown away by the difference the saddle makes to their horse's performance! This is particularly so with riders training lateral movements and flying changes.
  7. If there is a clear favourite at the end of the initial consulation, you can go ahead with the order. But if you want to think on it, consult with a trusted saddle fitter or your coach, that is absolutely no trouble. You are also welcome to come back and trial the saddles again on a different day, particularly if your horse has been impatient with the process. We are more than happy to work with your team to determine the best option for you and your horse. 

Step three: Ordering
Once you have decided which saddle is right for you and your horse, it's time to place your order.

Off-the-Shelf Saddles
We usually have off-the-shelf ranges in stock in most sizes... and in many cases you can take them home the day of the consultation! But if you need adjustments or want a particular model we don't currently have in stock, we will place an order for you as soon as payment is received, to ensure you receive your saddle asap! 

Custom Saddles
Custom saddles need to be measured, which can also usually be done on the day of the consultation. Once the measurements are done, you get to customise your saddle! This involves choosing patterns, colours and styles for flaps, welts, cantles and more. Once payment is received we can order your new saddle which generally takes between 4-8 weeks to arrive. 
​Do you live interstate? We can arrange remote saddle trials.
CLICK HERE to find out more. 

trusted by wa's top riders

Lisa Riley 

grand prix dressage rider

I have been lucky enough to train with Victoria Hamilton with many different horses since 1998. Each horse has had its own strengths and weaknesses, but Victoria possesses an uncanny ability to understand each horse on their own merit and works closely with me to bring out their best. Victoria is calm, patient, and generous with her never-ending knowledge. Her attention to detail and empathy with the horse and riding is amazing. I believe it is these qualities that have helped me train my horses from freshly backed 3-year old’s right through to winning the state championships at Grand Prix level. Throughout all training Victoria always has the welfare of the horse as her foremost concern and works hard to help me and my horse understand what is being asked and why. If something is not working, Victoria changes tact and finds a way we can both understand. I hope to continue to train with Victoria for many more years as I value her opinion, her knowledge and her friendship
Photo credit: OneEyedFrog Photography

Shannon Brookes

high performance para equestrian squad rider

I have been receiving coaching from Victoria Hamilton since 2012, when I first got back into riding after having kids and losing my confidence. Victoria took me and my no-frills older thoroughbred on when I my ambition was to “ride a bit nicer” but not to do anything “serious.” I have since made it into the WA Para Equestrian High Performance Dressage Squad on my warmbloods, competing in the Tokyo Paralympic selection events in Victoria in 2019. Along the way we also competed in show horse and breed classes, improving and achieving high levels every year. Victoria has worked with me to find what works best for me in terms of my health limitations, as well as taking into consideration my life circumstances of living rurally and having a family. I have found Vicky to be a wealth of knowledge in regard to riding, equestrian health and biomechanics, and as a highly skilled rider herself, which gives me someone to aspire to emulate. I highly recommend Vicky for anyone who wants to improve their riding and their horse’s health and longevity, as she is able to improve the fundamental basics which are required in every discipline.
Picture
Photo Credit: Jordan Colleran Photography

Andrew Forbes 

​FEI Para Dressage Rider​

I have been a pupil of Dr Victoria Hamilton for a few years now. After recovering from extensive spinal surgery in 2017 I began with Vicky and myself and horses have not looked back. Vicky has a very dynamic and positive forward thinking style of coaching, setting positive and achievable goals. Vicky very much looks at the partnership between horse and rider and the bond between both. Vicky has also been a mentor for me in my dressage journey, going from not being able to ride for some years to gaining FEI Grade V para classification within 12 months of working together. I cannot recommend Vicky as coach highly enough. ​

Does this sound Familiar?

  • You have tried every saddle on the planet and nothing seems to fit your horse 
  • You have taken your saddle to multiple  fitters but something still doesn't feel right 
  • You have spend countless dollars on weekly lessons and you just don't seem to be riding any better
  • You have sent your horse for professional training to solve behavioural problems that just keep coming back 
  • You try so hard to improve your position but always feel like you are off balance or tipping forward 
  • You feel unstable in the saddle which makes you feel nervous every time you ride, making it unenjoyable 
  • Your have spent your life savings on a horse that should be capable of achieving top marks but just can't seem to perform at the level you would expect. 

why is this happening?

Most riders can recognise obvious signs their saddle does not fit such as: 
  • ​Saddle slippage 
  • Bucking 
  • Refusal to move forward
  • Sore back
But they may miss more subtle signs including: 
  • Bracing
  • Resisting 
  • Disuniting in canter 
  • Irregular lateral work 
  • Unwillingness to work over back
  • Breaking gaits 
  • Depression where the saddle sits.
  • Late flying changes
  • Reluctance to move in an uphill manner
  • Irregular steps walking downhill

to find the perfect saddle we must consider

Gullet shape, width and angle
​ Seat shape and size
Flap length and cut
knee roll depth, length, shape and Position
Tree twist, materials and size
Angle of the Rails
stirrup bar position
 Gusset lengths, depth and position 
channel width
panel design 
 girth strap positioning and design

What riders say about our saddles

Dinah Fleming

The new Discovery Dressage Saddle is by far one of the most comfortable saddles I have ridden in. The Discovery saddle offers a variety of gullet widths that allows my warmblood horse Winston (Everton Churchill) complete freedom through the shoulder and back, while not compromising the rider’s position. With its soft seat, narrow twist (waist) and close leg contact my aids are applied with little effort for maximum results. The Discovery saddle has managed to get three things right, a narrow twist for the rider, versatility of gullet sizes to fit thoroughbreds and warmbloods all at an affordable price that will fit most budgets.
Photo Credit: Meimipix

Chloe Thyne

I can finally ride without any discomfort! I have an 18-month-old daughter and before having her I would ride in any saddle you put me in. But after having her I had trouble with a sore coccyx if I rode more than two days in a row. On top of that I have a 5-year-old Clydie X who is still growing and limited to wide range saddles, so I was struggling to enjoy riding. When my saddle fitter told me about VH Saddlery and their Discovery saddles I was up for trying anything. I had a few rides in the dressage saddle and loved it! It is so comfortable, puts me in a great position and is supportive. I had my dressage saddle for about a month and decided “I needed” a jump saddle as well. I have received fantastic service and support from VH Saddlery and would highly recommend them to anyone.

Charmaine fuller

​Victoria’s knowledge of her saddle brands and focus on the welfare and comfort of my ponies is exceptional. The focus on the location of girth points and set up is so refreshing. Her input in regard to my pony’s weight from a vet’s perspective was invaluable. I have made a few simple changes and gained unbelievable results. I have been very frustrated for many years purchasing more saddles than you would like to know, and Harry has never been able to move under saddle as he did in the paddock. Since changing to a Discovery Dressage on a WB tree people cannot believe it is the same pony. He is loose, relaxed, willingly forward, able to bend around my leg and has cadence, all of which he used to find too hard. Percy was always anxious while being saddled and ridden, tight and generally not working anywhere near his potential. Now in a Discovery Dressage on a TB tree he stands quietly while being saddled, relaxing over the back and gaining confidence. I could go on for ever about how grateful I am. 

more from our riders

Michelle Ridout 

In the short time I have owned the Discovery Dressage Saddle there has been a dramatic improvement in my position and my horse’s movement, which has been reflected by the judges’ comments and marks. It is an extremely comfortable saddle that has helped me enormously by aligning my position and allowing me to communicate better with my horse.

robyn brown

I am thrilled with the way Crystal de Luxe is working since being fitted with her new Discovery Dressage Saddle. The improvement has been incredible and helped us on our way to 2nd at the 2019 Rubber Gem WA State Dressage Championships.​

alexia sita

I had lost hope in finding a saddle, sat in 30+ major European and English brand saddles. Never got that immediate yes feeling. The Ryder Zara was the first in the range of the VH Saddles I tried on. I immediately loved it. 
Every ride counts now, I can sit the bigger trot. I feel connected in my seat and through with the horse.

​FAqs

do you need to see my horse?
Ideally yes but there are options for doing online or video consultations, or using your local saddle fitter, if you live rurally, remotely or interstate. I'm am happy to discuss this further in the initial consultation. 
Do you travel? 
Generally no. But there are a some occasions where I attend events and clubs, and may be able to arrange to meet you for a consultation. 
where are you located?
VH Saddlery is located in Sawyers Valley. We have an undercover arena with great mirrors and plenty of float parking. 
What happens if i live rurally or remotely? 
There are options for doing online or video consultations, or using your local saddle fitter, if you live rurally, remotely or interstate. I'm am happy to discuss this further in the initial consultation. ​
what if my horse is currently out of work? 
It is not ideal to buy a saddle for a horse that is out of work as their back shape will not be indicative of what it will be like when they are in work and also a major part of the saddle trial process is seeing how the horse moves in the different saddles and how the rider sits.
Do you do saddle fittings? 
We do not offer saddle fittings, but we do measure horses to ensure your new saddle fits upon arrival, offer advice for care and maintenance, and can recommend suitably qualified fitters who specialise in fitting our saddles for the future.
Do I have to ride my horse at the consultation? 
Ideally yes but we do understand there are some unique cases where this is not possible. We can discuss options depending on your individual circumstances.
How long does it take for saddles to arrive? 
We always have saddles in stock, but depending on the individual needs of you and your horse, and the brand you select, we may need to order a saddle in. They can take anywhere between 2-8 weeks to arrive depending on various factors. 
What if i'm not sure whether my saddle is a problem and i just need some advice? 
We are always happy to help. If you're not sure whether you need a new saddle be in touch and we an decide how to proceed from there. 
Do i have to buy a saddle through VH Saddlery after my consultation? 
Not at all! We are confident we have a saddle to suit every horse and rider. However, if you decide for whatever reason you do not wish to purchase a saddle through VH Saddlery, you are under no obligation to do so. We always put the needs of the horse and rider first and would never recommend a saddle unless we are 100% confident it is perfect for you and your horse. We keep detailed notes so if you decide later on to make the purchase we will know which ones were your favourites.
Can I trial a saddle if I live in another interstate? 
Yes! We offer remove saddle trials for interstate riders. Click here to find out more. 

HAve more questions? 

Give us a call or send us an email. We are always happy to help.
E: [email protected]    P: 0407 773 582