The TW Saddlery Lightweight Western Saddle FAQ Guide answers common questions about saddle fit, rider comfort, adjustable saddle fitting, trail riding, gaited horse saddles, shims, demos, warranties, and more.
Use the sections below to learn more about:
About Our Saddles
What makes TW Saddlery saddles different?
TW Saddlery saddles are designed around one core philosophy: long-hour comfort for both horse and rider. Unlike traditional western saddles that rely on a fixed tree fit, our saddles feature a patented 3-D adjustable fitting system that allows the saddle to be fine-tuned to the individual horse.
Our saddles are also significantly lighter weight than most traditional western saddles, reducing strain on both horse and rider during long rides. Combined with broad weight distribution, spinal clearance, shoulder freedom, and customizable rider comfort options, TW Saddlery saddles are built to help horses move freely and comfortably mile after mile.
Many riders choose TW Saddlery for endurance riding, trail riding, gaited horses, ranch versatility, western dressage, and hard-to-fit horses because the saddle can continue to adapt as the horse changes shape over time.
What is the patented 3-D fitting system?
The TW Saddlery patented 3-D fitting system is the only saddle fitting system in the world that allows independent adjustment of width, angle, and arch on each side of the saddle.
Using fitting cushions and shim inserts, the saddle can be customized to match the horse’s individual shape rather than forcing the horse to conform to a fixed tree. This allows riders to:
- Fine-tune saddle balance
- Improve shoulder freedom
- Address uneven muscling
- Adjust for topline changes
- Fit multiple horses more effectively
Because horses change shape throughout the year due to conditioning, age, muscle development, and seasonal changes, the ability to adjust saddle fit is one of the biggest advantages of the TW Saddlery system.
Why are your saddles lightweight?
Traditional western saddles commonly weigh between 35–50 pounds. TW Saddlery saddles are designed to dramatically reduce unnecessary weight while still maintaining stability, comfort, and durability.
Depending on the model, many TW Saddlery saddles start around 17–25 pounds. Less saddle weight means:
- Reduced strain on the horse’s back
- Easier saddling for the rider
- Improved comfort over long distances
- Less rider fatigue
Our lightweight design is especially appreciated by trail riders, endurance riders, older riders, and riders who saddle multiple horses regularly.
Can your saddles fit multiple horses?
Yes. One of the biggest advantages of the TW Saddlery fitting system is the ability to adjust the saddle for different horses using fitting cushions and shim inserts.
Because the saddle is adjustable, many riders successfully use one saddle on multiple horses with minor fitting adjustments. This is especially helpful for:
- Riders with several horses
- Horses that seasonally change shape
- Young horses developing muscle
- Hard-to-fit horses
- Horses recovering from topline changes
While every horse is unique, our adjustable fitting system all
- ows significantly more flexibility than a traditional fixed-tree western saddle.
Are your saddles good for long trail rides?
Absolutely. TW Saddlery saddles were designed specifically with long-hour rider and horse comfort in mind. Many riders use our saddles for endurance riding, competitive trail, all-day trail rides, and multi-day riding adventures.
Key features that make them ideal for long rides include:
- Lightweight saddle design
- Broad weight distribution
- Adjustable fit system
- Reduced pressure points
- Open spinal clearance
- Shoulder freedom
- Rider comfort-focused seat designs
Long-distance comfort is one of the reasons so many riders switch to TW Saddlery after struggling with soreness or discomfort in traditional saddles.
Are your saddles good for short-backed horses?
Yes. TW Saddlery saddles are very popular for short-backed horses because the tree design distributes weight across a broad surface area while maintaining proper balance and loin clearance.
Unlike many traditional saddles that concentrate rider weight into narrow pressure points, our western-style tree spreads weight more evenly across the horse’s back. The rear of the bars are also designed with flare to help prevent digging into the loin area.
Many riders with Arabians, gaited horses, mustangs, and other short-backed breeds choose TW Saddlery specifically because of the adjustable fit system and the way the saddles distribute pressure more evenly.
Why do your saddles fit differently than traditional western saddles?
TW Saddlery saddles are designed around pressure distribution, adjustability, and freedom of movement rather than relying on a rigid one-shape-fits-all tree.
Traditional western saddles often use fixed bars with limited ability to adapt to changes in the horse’s shape. TW Saddlery saddles use a patented adjustable fitting system that allows the saddle to be fine-tuned for width, angle, and arch independently on each side.
Our tree design also differs in several important ways:
- Broad weight-bearing surface helps reduce pressure points
- Front bar flare allows freer shoulder movement
- Rear bar flare helps prevent pressure in the loin area
- Open spinal clearance helps reduce pressure along the spine
- Adjustable balance allows the saddle to continue fitting as the horse changes
The result is a saddle system designed to improve both horse comfort and rider comfort over long hours in the saddle.
Why are TW Saddlery saddles so comfortable?
TW Saddlery saddles are designed with rider comfort as a top priority. We use premium leather sourced from one of the oldest and most respected leather manufacturers in the United States, giving our saddles a soft, broken-in feel while still maintaining long-term durability.
Our seats are built using high-quality foam designed to maintain its shape and support over time rather than than flattening out and losing comfort with use.. Riders also appreciate the narrow twist in our seats, which help create a more natural and comfortable riding position.
Comfort is further enhanced through free-swinging fenders that reduce strain on the hips, knees, and ankles, along with multiple pommel and cantle options that allow riders to choose the feel and support level that best fits their riding style and discipline. Combined with lightweight construction and close-contact rider positioning, the result is a saddle many riders describe as exceptionally comfortable from the very first ride.
What type of leather does TW Saddlery use?
TW Saddlery saddles are handcrafted using premium English bridle leather sourced from one of the oldest and most respected leather manufacturers in the United States. This high-quality leather is selected for its durability, flexibility, and rich feel, allowing the saddle to have a more broken-in and comfortable feel while still standing up to years of riding use.
Our Dark Oil leather option is built using premium skirting leather, offering a more traditional western look and feel with added structure and durability.
We also offer a variety of premium seat leather options depending on the rider’s preferred feel and style. Riders can choose from materials such as premium buffalo leather, rough out, smooth leather, suede, and fleece on select models. These seat options allow riders to customize both the appearance and feel of their saddle while maintaining the comfort and craftsmanship TW Saddlery is known for.
Combined with quality materials and attention to detail, our leather selection helps create saddles that are not only durable and functional, but also exceptionally comfortable and visually distinctive.
Can I customize my saddle?
Yes. TW Saddlery saddles can be customized in a wide variety of ways depending on the saddle model. Riders can choose from different leather colors, seat materials, tooling patterns, hardware finishes, conchos, dee ring styles, rigging options, and more.
Popular seat options include premium buffalo leather, rough out, smooth leather, suede, and fleece depending on the model and rider preference. Riders can also personalize their saddle with custom tooling, concho styles, accent colors, and hardware selections to create a saddle that fits both their riding needs and personal style.
Lightweight Western Saddle FAQ: Saddle Fit and Horse Comfort
How should the saddle sit on my horse?
A properly fitted saddle should sit level on the horse’s back while allowing freedom of movement through the shoulders and maintaining clearance along the spine. The saddle should make broad, even contact without excessive pressure points, bridging, rocking, or pinching.
TW Saddlery saddles are designed to distribute weight across a larger surface area than many traditional saddles, helping reduce concentrated pressu
re. Because every horse is shaped differently, our patented adjustable fitting system allows the saddle to be fine-tuned using fitting cushions and shim inserts to improve balance and comfort.
A horse’s build, conditioning, topline, and muscling can all affect saddle fit over time, which is why adjustability is such an important part of our system.
What causes white hairs?
White hairs are commonly caused by repeated friction or pressure that affects the hair follicles over time. While excessive pressure can certainly contribute, white hairs do not always mean the saddle is drastically too narrow or too wide.
In many cases, white hairs develop from:
- Repeated movement or rubbing
- Uneven pressure distribution
- Changes in the horse’s shape
- Saddle imbalance
- Bridging
- Muscle loss or asymmetry
Because TW Saddlery saddles are adjustable, small fitting changes can often improve balance and reduce the movement or pressure contributing to white hairs. Our Photo Fit process is designed specifically to help riders identify and fine-tune these types of issues.
How do I fit a downhill horse?
Downhill horses can be challenging to fit because the saddle naturally wants to slide forward toward the lower shoulder area. Proper balance is extremely important.
Our adjustable fitting system allows the saddle to be fine-tuned to help stabilize the saddle and improve weight distribution on downhill horses. In most cases, small shim adjustments in the front or rear of the saddle can significantly improve balance and reduce forward movement.
TW Saddlery saddles are especially helpful for downhill horses because the tree design allows freer shoulder movement while still maintaining broad weight distribution and spinal clearance.
What causes bridging?
Bridging occurs when the saddle makes contact at the front and rear of the bars while leaving a gap through the middle section of the horse’s back. This creates uneven pressure distribution and can lead to soreness or instability.
Bridging can be caused by:
- Incorrect saddle angle or arch
- Changes in the horse’s topline
- Muscle loss
- Saddle imbalance
- A tree shape that does not match the horse
Because TW Saddlery saddles are adjustable, bridging can often be improved through fitting cushion and shim adjustments that help restore more even contact and balance across the horse’s back.
What if my horse changes shape?
Horses naturally change shape over time due to:
- Conditioning
- Age
- Seasonal weight fluctuations
- Muscle development
- Time off
- Recovery from injury
Traditional fixed-tree saddles cannot easily adapt to these changes. TW Saddlery saddles are designed specifically to allow continued fit adjustments as the horse changes shape.
Using fitting cushions and shim inserts, riders can fine-tune width, angle, arch, and balance without replacing the entire saddle. This is one of the biggest advantages of our patented 3-D fitting system.
Why does my saddle move forward?
Saddles commonly move forward when:
- The horse is built downhill
- The shoulder area is larger than the topline behind it
- The saddle balance is off
- The saddle is too wide in front
- The horse has low or mutton withers
Movement is not always caused by one single issue. Often it is a combination of conformation, balance, and shoulder movement.
TW Saddlery saddles are designed with front bar flare to allow freer shoulder movement while still distributing weight broadly across the back. Small shim adjustments can often help improve stability and overall balance.
Can your saddles help sore-backed horses?
Absolutely, many riders come to TW Saddlery after struggling with soreness problems in traditional saddles.
Our saddles are designed to:
- Reduce concentrated pressure points
- Improve weight distribution
- Maintain spinal clearance
- Allow freer shoulder movement
- Continue adjusting as the horse changes shape
Because the saddles are adjustable, many riders are able to improve comfort through fitting changes that would not be possible in a traditional fixed-tree saddle.
Proper saddle fit, conditioning, rider balance, and overall horse health all play important roles in back comfort, which is why we also offer Photo Fit support to help riders fine-tune fit over time.
Why doesn’t the last rib rule apply the same way to your saddles?
The “last rib rule” is often discussed in traditional English saddle fitting because English saddles typically use narrow, rounded flocked panels that concentrate the rider’s weight into a relatively small contact area. This creates much higher pressure per square inch (PSI), especially if pressure extends behind the last rib into the loin area.
TW Saddlery saddles function differently. Our saddles use a western-style tree with broad, flat bars that distribute the rider’s weight across a much larger surface area, significantly reducing concentrated pressure.
In addition:
- Front bar flare allows freer shoulder movement
- Rear bar flare helps prevent pressure digging into the loin
- Broad weight distribution lowers PSI
- Open spinal clearance helps reduce pressure along the spine
Because of this design, saddle fit is not determined solely by where the bars end, but by how the saddle distributes pressure and supports the horse’s back overall. Many short-backed horses successfully go in TW Saddlery saddles because of the way the tree distributes weight more evenly than narrow-panel saddle designs.
Do you make saddles for mules, draft horses, or extra wide horses?
Yes. TW Saddlery offers special tree options for mules, draft horses, and extra wide horses that may not fit within traditional saddle tree parameters.
Our adjustable fitting system allows the saddle to be fine-tuned for width, angle, arch, and balance, making it especially helpful for hard-to-fit horses and mules.
We offer:
- Mule tree options
- Extra wide tree options
- Adjustable fitting cushions and shim systems
- Continued fit adjustments as the horse changes shape
Many riders choose TW Saddlery specifically because traditional western saddles can be difficult to fit on broader-backed horses, mules, and uniquely shaped riding animals.
If you have questions about your horse or mule’s build, our fitting specialists are happy to help guide you through the fitting process.
📞 915-345-4130
Adjustable Fitting System
How do I use shims?
Shims are used to fine-tune saddle balance and improve how the saddle distributes pressure across the horse’s back. Because horses are not all built the same, shims allow the saddle to be adjusted for changes in topline, muscling, shoulder shape, and overall balance.
Shims can be added to:
- Lift the front of the saddle
- Support the rear of the saddle
- Reduce bridging
- Improve balance on downhill horses
- Address uneven muscling
Small adjustments can make a significant difference, which is why we recommend making changes gradually and evaluating the horse’s comfort and movement after each adjustment.
What fitting cushions should I use?
The correct fitting cushion thickness depends on your horse’s shape, muscling, and overall saddle fit needs.
TW Saddlery saddles are used with:
- 1/2″ fitting cushions
- 3/4″ fitting cushions
- 1″ fitting cushions
Most riders use 3/4″ fitting cushions as a starting point, but horses with sharper withers or less muscling may benefit from thicker cushions, while broader horses may require thinner options.
Our fitting system is designed to work together with the fitting cushions and shims to create a more customized fit for the individual horse.
How do I adjust stirrup position?
TW Saddlery saddles feature adjustable stirrup positioning, allowing riders to place the stirrups in the position most comfortable for their body and riding style.
The stirrups can be adjusted into:
- Forward position
- Centered position
- Balanced position
This allows riders to fine-tune leg position and rider balance rather than being locked into one fixed stirrup placement.
To adjust the stirrup position:
- Adjust stirrup length to your preference
- Lift the front portion of the fitting cushion
- Locate the stirrup leather attachment points
- Reposition the stirrup leather into the desired location using the provided set screw
This system allows riders to customize the saddle feel for trail riding, endurance riding, ranch riding, or general comfort.
How do I change seat padding?
Certain TW Saddlery models feature interchangeable or shimmable seat systems that allow riders to customize seat feel and rider comfort.
Depending on the model, riders can:
- Add or reduce seat padding
- Change seat material
- Adjust seat rise and twist
- Customize cushioning under the seat bones and thighs
This allows riders to fine-tune comfort for long rides and individual rider preferences. Riders commonly choose between smooth leather, suede, or fleece seat materials depending on the desired feel and grip.
How do I balance the saddle?
A properly balanced saddle should sit level on the horse’s back without tipping excessively forward or backward. Balance affects both horse comfort and rider position.
If the saddle is out of balance, riders may experience:
- Forward movement
- Pressure points
- Bridging
- Difficulty maintaining position
- Uneven rider weight distribution
TW Saddlery saddles can be balanced using fitting cushions and shim adjustments. Small front or rear shim changes can often significantly improve how the saddle sits and distributes pressure across the horse’s back.
Because horses change shape over time, saddle balance may need occasional adjustments throughout the year.
What pad thickness should I use?
Pad thickness depends on the horse’s shape, the fitting cushions being used, and the overall saddle fit.
In general:
- Thicker pads are not always better
- Excessively thick pads can sometimes reduce saddle stability
- Proper saddle balance and pressure distribution are more important than simply adding padding
TW Saddlery saddles are designed to work together with fitting cushions and shim adjustments, so pad choice should complement the overall fit system rather than compensate for poor fit.
Many riders use high-quality wool or breathable pads that allow the saddle fitting system to function properly while still providing shock absorption and comfort.
How often should fit be adjusted?
Horse shape changes more often than many riders realize. Saddle fit may need adjustment due to:
- Seasonal conditioning changes
- Weight gain or loss
- Muscle development
- Aging
- Time off
- Changes in workload
Because TW Saddlery saddles are adjustable, riders can continue fine-tuning fit as the horse changes over time rather than needing an entirely new saddle.
Some horses require very few adjustments, while others may benefit from periodic shim or balance changes throughout the year. Our Photo Fit process is designed to help riders evaluate and maintain proper fit as their horse changes shape.
Saddle Models & Rider Comfort
Trail Light vs Featherweight Trail
The Trail Light and Featherweight Trail share the same lightweight western tree design and patented adjustable fitting system, but the biggest difference is the seat design.
The Trail Light features an interchangeable and shimmable seat system that allows riders to customize seat padding, twist, and overall rider feel. Many riders love the Trail Light because the seat can be adjusted for additional cushioning and rider comfort during long rides.
The Featherweight Trail features a permanently stitched-in seat with soft padding under the seat bones and a more traditional western feel. It also includes a classic Cheyenne roll cantle that many trail riders appreciate for security and comfort.
Both saddles are lightweight, highly adjustable, and designed for long-hour comfort. Riders who want maximum seat adjustability often prefer the Trail Light, while riders wanting a more traditional fixed-seat feel often prefer the Featherweight Trail.
Texas Wade vs Classic Wade
Both the Texas Wade and Classic Wade are lightweight Wade-style
saddles built on our adjustable fitting system, but they feature different pommel styles and overall rider feel.
The Texas Wade features a more traditional western-style pommel with a post horn and slightly fuller western appearance. Riders who prefer a more classic ranch or working western look often gravitate toward the Texas Wade.
The Classic Wade features an A-fork Wade-style pommel combined with the post horn, giving it a more traditional Wade appearance and narrower feel through the front of the saddle.
Both models offer:
- Lightweight construction
- Patented adjustable fitting system
- Broad weight distribution
- Long-hour rider comfort
- Shoulder freedom and spinal clearance
The choice often comes down to rider preference in pommel shape, feel, and appearance.
Which saddle is best for trail riding?
Many TW Saddlery models are designed specifically for trail riding and long-hour comfort. The best choice depends on the rider’s preferred seat feel, riding style, and desired level of security.
Popular trail riding models include:
- Trail Light
- Featherweight Trail
- Texas Wade
- Classic Wade
- Ultra Secure Aussie
- Ultra Secure Aussie light
Riders looking for a highly adjustable seat system often choose the Trail Light, while riders wanting a more traditional western feel may prefer the Featherweight Trail or Wade models.
All TW Saddlery trail saddles are designed to provide:
- Lightweight comfort
- Broad weight distribution
- Adjustable fit
- Reduced pressure points
- Shoulder freedom
- Long-distance rider comfort
Which saddle is best for gaited horses?
Many gaited horse riders choose TW Saddlery saddles because of the adjustable fitting system, lightweight design, and ability to accommodate different shoulder and back shapes.
Gaited horses require:
- Shoulder freedom
- Proper balance
- Broad pressure distribution
- Reduced restriction through movement
Popular models for gaited horses include:
Because gaited horses vary greatly in build and movement, the ability to fine-tune fit with fitting cushions and shims is one of the biggest advantages of the TW Saddlery system.
Which models have interchangeable seats?
The Trail Light and Ultra Secure Aussie Light models feature interchangeable or shimmable seat systems that allow riders to customize rider comfort and seat feel.
These seat systems allow riders to:
- Add or reduce cushioning
- Adjust seat twist
- Fine-tune rider balance
- Change seat materials
- Customize long-ride comfort
Many riders appreciate the ability to swap between smooth leather, suede, or fleece seat materials depending on personal preference and riding style.
Models with permanently stitched-in seats, such as the Featherweight Trail, provide a more traditional fixed-seat feel.
What seat size should I choose?
Seat size is based on rider build, preferred riding style, and how the rider likes to sit in the saddle. A properly sized seat should allow the rider to sit balanced and comfortably without feeling cramped or excessively loose in the saddle.
In general:
- Riders who prefer a more secure feel may prefer a slightly smaller seat
- Riders wanting additional room for long-distance comfort may prefer slightly more space
Because seat shape and twist vary between saddle models, seat size can feel different from one saddle to another. Riders often find that TW Saddlery saddles fit differently than traditional western saddles due to the seat design and closer-contact feel.
If you are unsure about seat size, we are always happy to help guide you based on your height, weight, riding style, and the model you are considering.
Need Help Choosing Your Seat Size?
We’re happy to help recommend the best seat size based on:
- Your height and weight
- Riding style
- Preferred riding position
- Saddle model you are considering
Do I need a horn?
The choice between a horned saddle and a hornless saddle largely comes down to rider preference and intended use.
TW Saddlery saddles are designed with horns and many trail riders appreciate having one for:
- Security on the trail
- Ponying horses
- Attaching saddlebags or gear
- General trail riding convenience
Our horns are designed to remain functional while still maintaining a lightweight, comfortable saddle design.
If you prefer a hornless saddle, our sister company, Specialized Saddles, offers several hornless models that are especially popular among endurance riders and riders wanting an even closer-contact feel.
Both TW Saddlery and Specialized Saddles are built around the same patented adjustable fitting philosophy, allowing riders to choose the saddle style that best fits their riding discipline and comfort preferences.
What is the difference between TW Saddlery and Specialized Saddles?
TW Saddlery and Specialized Saddles are sister companies built around the same patented 3-D adjustable fitting system and overall saddle fitting philosophy. Both brands are designed to improve horse comfort through broad weight distribution, adjustability, spinal clearance, and the ability to fine-tune fit as the horse changes shape over time.
The biggest difference between the two brands is the riding style and saddle design.
TW Saddlery
TW Saddlery focuses on lightweight western saddles designed for:
- Trail riding
- Ranch versatility
- Gaited horses
- Western dressage
- Wade saddles
- Australian-style saddles
TW Saddlery saddles feature western-style trees, horns, western seats, western rigging, and traditional western styling while still maintaining a lightweight, close-contact feel.
Specialized Saddles
Specialized Saddles focuses primarily on hornless endurance and English-influenced trail saddles. These saddles are especially popular among endurance riders looking for:
- Extremely lightweight saddles
- Close-contact feel
- Easy mounting and dismounting
- Greater rider freedom of movement
Popular Specialized models include the Ultralight, Eurolight, International, and Trailmaster.
What Both Brands Share
Both TW Saddlery and Specialized Saddles include:
- Patented 3-D adjustable fitting system
- Adjustable stirrup positioning
- Broad weight distribution
- Shoulder freedom and spinal clearance
- Fitting cushions and shim systems
- Photo Fit support
- Lightweight saddle designs
- Ability to fit multiple horses more effectively than traditional fixed-tree saddles
Many riders choose between the two brands simply based on whether they prefer a western-style horned saddle or a hornless/endurance-style saddle while still benefiting from the same adjustable fitting technology.
Need Help Choosing the Right Saddle?
Not sure which model is best for your horse and riding style? We’re happy to help recommend the best saddle based on:
- Your horse’s build
- Riding discipline
- Rider preferences
- Desired seat feel
- Trail riding vs endurance riding
- Security vs freedom of movement
- Weight preferences
Trail fenders feature a flexible biothane neck connecting the fender to the stirrup. This design:
- Requires little to no break-in
- Allows freer leg movement
- Reduces knee and ankle strain
- Makes stirrup adjustment easier
- Works especially well for long trail rides and endurance riders
Trail fenders also use roller buckles, allowing riders to easily adjust stirrup length, even while mounted.
Shown to the left on the Featherweight Trail Saddle.
Traditional fenders use a wider leather neck and more traditional western design. These fenders:
- Provide a classic western feel
- Require break-in and twisting
- Hold the stirrup in a more fixed position
- Use traditional Blevins buckles for adjustment
Riders who prefer a more traditional western riding position often choose traditional fenders.
Shown to the right on the Ranch Versatility.
What is the difference between the Trail Seat and the Flat Seat?
The Trail Seat features more rise in the front of the seat, placing the rider deeper in the pocket of the saddle for added security and support during long rides. Many trail riders, gaited horse riders, and riders on downhill horses prefer the Trail Seat because it helps keep the rider balanced and comfortably seated over rough terrain and long hours in the saddle.
The steeper angle of the Trail Seat positions the rider more securely without needing excessive front shimming to level the rider on downhill horses. This allows the saddle to maintain a more even distribution of weight across the entire bars of the saddle while still helping the rider feel balanced and supported.
Trail Seat Benefits:
- More secure seat feel
- Helps hold the rider in position
- Popular for trail riding and gaited horses
- Works especially well for downhill horses
- Comfortable for riders who spend more time sitting deep in the saddle
- Greater rise in the front of the seat
The Flat Seat has a lower rise in the front and places the rider more in the center of the saddle, creating a position that many riders describe as feeling closer to a dressage or balanced riding position. Riders who spend more time posting, two-pointing, or riding with more freedom of movement oftenprefer the Flat Seat.
The lower rise and front cutout help reduce interference when posting or standing in the stirrups, making it especially comfortable for riders who move frequently in the saddle during long rides.
Flat Seat Benefits:
- More open rider position
- Easier for posting and two-point
- Greater freedom of movement
- Lower rise in the front of the seat
- Popular with endurance riders and riders who frequently post
- Helps reduce pressure and discomfort during long periods of posting
How are stirrups adjusted with TW Saddlery’s adjustable stirrup positioning?
All TW Saddlery and Specialized Saddles feature adjustable stirrup positioning, allowing riders to place the stirrups in the position that feels most natural and comfortable for their body and riding style.
The stirrups can be positioned in:
- Forward position
- Balanced position
- Centered position
This adjustability allows riders to fine-tune leg position, rider balance, and overall comfort rather than being locked into one fixed stirrup placement.
How to Adjust Stirrup Position
- Adjust the stirrups to your desired riding length.
- Turn the saddle over and lift the front portion of the fitting cushion to expose the stirrup leather attachment area.
- Use the provided set screw to secure the stirrup leather in the desired position.
Helpful Tips for Adjusting Stirrup Position
- Try riding in all three positions to determine which feels most comfortable and balanced for you.
- Riders who feel tipped or pushed forward often prefer the forward position.
- Riders who feel like they cannot get their legs underneath them often prefer the balanced or centered positions.
- Different riding disciplines and horse builds may feel better with different stirrup placements.
Are the Set Screws Required?
No. The set screws are optional.
Many riders choose to ride without the set screws installed because it allows the stirrup leathers to move more freely while riding. This freedom of movement can be especially helpful:
- On steep hills
- During long trail rides
- When shifting rider position frequently
- For households with multiple riders using the same saddle
Without the set screws installed, stirrup length can also be adjusted more easily for riders of different heights.
Demo & Fit Support
Do you offer demos?
Yes. TW Saddlery offers a demo program so riders can try a saddle before making a final decision. Demo saddles allow riders to experience the fit, comfort, and feel of the saddle on their own horse before purchasing.
Demo saddles typically include:
- Fitting cushions
- Full shim kit
- Stirrups
- Adjustable fitting system components
Many of our most popular models, including the Trail Light and Featherweight Trail, are regularly available through the demo program.
Because proper fit is extremely important, demo saddles also allow riders to work through fitting adjustments before committing to a saddle purchase.
What is the Fit Kit?
The TW Saddlery Fit Kit is designed to help evaluate your horse’s shape and provide more accurate saddle fitting recommendations before your saddle is built or adjusted.
The Fit Kit allows riders to:
- Take measurements and tracings of the horse’s back
- Evaluate width and back shape
- Determine tree and fitting needs
- Help identify fitting challenges before the saddle arrives
Many riders choose to order the Fit Kit along with their saddle so the saddle can be pre-fit and shimmed to their horse before shipping.
The Fit Kit is especially helpful for:
- Hard-to-fit horses
- Wide horses
- Horses with asymmetry
- Mules
- Riders purchasing remotely
What is the Photo Fit process?
The Photo Fit process allows our fitting team to evaluate saddle fit using photos of the horse and saddle together. This process helps riders fine-tune saddle balance, shim placement, and overall fit after receiving the saddle.
Through Photo Fit, we can help evaluate:
- Saddle balance
- Bridging
- Pressure areas
- Shoulder freedom
- Saddle movement
- Shim placement
- Overall fit and contact
Because horses change shape over time, Photo Fit support is one of the biggest advantages of our adjustable fitting system.
Can you help fit a used saddle?
Yes. One of the advantages of the TW Saddlery adjustable fitting system is that even used saddles can often be adjusted and fine-tuned to fit a different horse.
We regularly help riders:
- Re-fit used saddles
- Adjust shim placement
- Change fitting cushions
- Improve saddle balance
- Evaluate fit through Photo Fit
Because the saddles are adjustable, many riders are able to successfully transition a used saddle between multiple horses over time.
Will you help after purchase?
Absolutely. Ongoing fit support is a major part of the TW Saddlery system.
Our goal is not simply to sell a saddle, but to help riders maintain proper saddle fit as their horse changes shape over time.
After purchase, we can assist with:
- Photo Fit evaluations
- Shim adjustments
- Saddle balance questions
- Fitting recommendations
- Cushion changes
- Troubleshooting movement or pressure concerns
Because horses naturally change shape with conditioning, age, and workload, continued support is an important part of maintaining comfort for both horse and rider.
Can adjustments be made later?
Yes. TW Saddlery saddles are specifically designed to allow continued adjustments as the horse changes shape over time.
Unlike many traditional fixed-tree saddles, our adjustable fitting system allows riders to fine-tune:
- Width
- Angle
- Arch
- Saddle balance
- Pressure distribution
Adjustments can be made using:
- Fitting cushions
- Shim inserts
- Balance changes
- Stirrup positioning adjustments
This adjustability is one of the reasons many riders choose TW Saddlery for horses whose shape changes throughout the year or over the course of conditioning and training.
Shipping, Returns & Warranty
TW Saddlery offers a trial period so riders can evaluate fit and comfort on their horse. Because proper fit is extremely important, we encourage riders to work with our fitting team before returning a saddle, as small adjustments can often make a significant improvement.
Shipping charges and processing fees are non-refundable. Certain custom orders may be non-refundable.
Are custom saddles refundable?
Certain custom options, including special-order trees and heavily customized saddles, may make a saddle non-refundable because the saddle is built specifically for the customer.
What are your build times?
Build times vary depending on the season, model, and level of customization. Standard builds are typically completed in approximately 3–6 weeks, while heavily tooled or highly customized saddles may require additional time.
👉 Contact Us for Current Lead Times
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. TW Saddlery ships internationally to many countries around the world. International customers are responsible for shipping costs, customs fees, duties, and import requirements specific to their country.
👉 Contact Us for International Shipping Information
Do you offer financing?
At this time, financing is only available through PayPal financing options at checkout for qualifying customers.
👉 Learn More About PayPal Financing
What warranty do saddles carry?
TW Saddlery saddles are handcrafted using high-quality materials and are backed by a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
👉 View Full Warranty Information