Ninety-five MPs from across the UK have attended a drop-in event at Westminster to talk about the effects offireworkson animals and people.Those involved inhorse carewill know too well how worrying fireworks displays can be, including staff at Redwings Horse Sanctuary. The charity, along with 18 other charities, teamed up as theFireworksImpact Coalition, to organise the event. MPs who attended drop-in on 12November were from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Island and across the political spectrum.There was also celebrity support from presenter and keen animal-advocate Kate Lawler, who attended at the RSPCAs invitation.Kate is one of over 173,000 people who have now signed RedwingsUK Government and Parliamentpetition calling on the Government to reduce the maximum volume of consumerfireworksfrom 120 to 90 decibels.It was great to meet so many MPs and hear how supportive they are for currentfireworksregulations to be reviewed and potentially overhauled, said Helen Whitelegg, Redwings Campaigns and Policy Manager. A lot of those who attended said they would be keen to support a parliamentary debate on the topic. At this time, were waiting to hear whether the Government will hold a debate following the level of support our petition has attracted.Once aUK Government and Parliamentpetition surpasses 100,000 signatures this must be considered, and there are now two petitions calling for better regulation offireworksthat have far exceeded the 100,000 signature threshold.Used fireworks on Welsh common. Credit: RedwingsMs Whitelegg cited some of the many tragedies involvingfireworksthat have occurred this month.A five-month old foal was impaled on some farming machinery in Riddlesden, West Yorkshire and died, she said. A two-year-old horse suffered a broken leg and had to be put to sleep after a largefireworkdisplay near their home in West Sussex. On 7 November we spoke with an owner whose horse hit their head after being spooked byfireworksand x-rays have shown she has a broken jaw. She isnt out of the woods yet and is facing eight weeks of soft food every few hours and continued veterinary support that will lead to significant cost.These are just some of the incidents involving horses that have happened this year, that we know about, as well as many devastating incidents involving dogs and other animals. Children and adults have been badly injured.Fireworkshave been thrown at police.We have held events like this before but have never had as many MPs attend as we did last week and we thank them for coming. A bland response from Government to these calls for change wont be acceptable now. People want and need more effective restrictions on the use offireworksin the UK, for people, animals and the environment.Redwings is urging the public to keep signing and sharing, click here to view the petition.Lead image by ShutterstockRelated contentHorses and fireworks: how to survive the seasonFireworks petition launched with Bonfire Night fast approachingSale and use of fireworks to be debated in ParliamentRedwings releases footage of horses distressed by fireworks to highlight issueThe post Ninety-five MPs attendfireworks event as equine fatalities and casualties continue appeared first on Your Horse.

As we head into the colder months, a hot topic in tack room conversations is the availability (and rising cost) of forage and horse feed. After a difficult growing season for farmers across the UK, hay and haylage supplies are looking tighter than usual, leaving many horse owners feeling anxious about how to maintain their horses health and condition this winter.Good quality forage and a balanced horse diet are essential to every horses health, comfort, and happiness. So its understandable that concerns about sourcing enough feed and fibre during the winter are prevalent throughout the equestrian community.Thankfully, with a bit of forward planning and flexibility, you can support your horses condition and equine nutrition right through the cold season.Jump toWhy Forage Matters So MuchThinking Beyond Traditional ForageForage Replacement Options at Redpost By BrandMonitoring Condition and HealthRely on RedpostWhy Forage Matters So MuchForage whether hay, haylage, or grass forms the foundation of every horses diet. It keeps the digestive system moving, helps maintain body temperature in cold weather, and provides natural mental stimulation through chewing.If horses are not provided with enough access to forage, issues such as colic and stomach ulcers can develop. There is also a higher likelihood of undesirable behaviours, like crib-biting or weaving.Smart Forage ManagementIf supplies are short, small changes to how you feed horses and store forage can make what you have last longer:Small-holed haynets or double-netting to slow down consumption and reduce wasteShires Greedy Feeder Medium HaynetElico Little Piggy HaynetLemieux Hippo HaynetMinimise wastage by using hay feeders Haygain DuraBar Corner Hay FeederProStable Hayfeeder Corner Hay BarHaygain Forager Slow FeederShop Our Full Range of Haynets and Feeders HereConsider using rubber matting in feeding areas to stop hay from being trampled into bedding.Arkmat Easy Sweep Low Bubble Rubber Mat 17mmArkmat Bubbletop Rubber Mat 10mm Arkmat Supersoft EVA Stable Floor Rubber Mat 24mm Shop Our Full Range of Rubber Mats hereStore bales properly to prevent spoilage: keep them dry, off the ground, and well ventilated.Thinking Beyond Traditional ForageIf your forage supply wont stretch throughout winter, high-fibre feeds for horses such as chopped fibres, soaked products, or pelleted fibre sources can safely supplement or partially replace hay and haylage. These options help maintain gut health, encourage chewing, and support equine nutrition when forage is limited.Mollichaff DailyFibre Molasses Free We have pulled together this handy guide in collaboration to help you find the best products to supplement your horse or ponys forage intake.Always read product information carefully, including preparation or feeding instructions, to ensure youre choosing the most suitable equine feed for your horses needs.Forage Replacement Options at Redpost By BrandFeeding Flexibility with DengieDengie Horse Feeds recommend that the following products can be used as full forage replacers:Dengie Hi-Fi SeniorDengie Ulser LiteDengie Meadow Lite with HerbsDengie Hi-Fi LiteThe products below can be used as partial forage replacers:Dengie Performance FibreDengie Hi-Fi Molasses FreeDengie Hi-Fi OriginalView All Dengie Products HereSeasonal Solutions from SpillersSpillers range offers full or partial forage replacers, many with added vitamins and minerals to balance the horse diet:Spillers Speedy-Mash FibreSpillers Senior Super MashSpillers Happy HoofSpillers Happy Hoof Molasses FreeSpillers High Fibre CubesView All Spillers Products HereFibre-Focused Feeding with MollichaffThe following Mollichaff products can be used as partial forage replacers:Mollichaff Light Molasses FreeMollichaff DailyFibre Molasses FreeMollichaff VeteranTOP FEEDING TIP: Mollichaff Veteran is not suitable for EMS equines but ideal for harder-working, older horses needing extra calories.View All Mollichaff Products HereFilling Fibre Gaps with British Horse FeedsBritish Horse Feeds have identified the following products as partial forage replacers:British Horse Feeds Fibre-BeetBritish Horse Feeds Speedi-BeetBoth are great for adding extra fibre and hydration while supporting healthy digestion and weight management in horses.View All British Horse Feeds Products HereThe Best of Baileys forage alternativesBaileys advise that their Natural Meadow Cobs can be used as a full forage replacer:Baileys Natural Meadow CobsWhile the Fibre Plus Nuggets are suitable as partial forage replacer:Baileys Fibre Plus NuggetsTOP FEEDING TIP: Baileys Fibre Plus Nuggets can be fed soaked or dry. If fed dry, split the ration into smaller portions throughout the day or use a treat ball to slow down greedy feeders.View All Baileys Products HereTopping Up With TopSpecTopSpec offer the following full forage replacers:TopSpec FibrePlus CubesTopSpec TopChop LiteThe following products from their range are suitable as partial forage replacers:TopSpec High Fibre MashTopSpec TopChop ZeroThese are ideal for horses needing controlled calorie intake or extra fibre without added sugar.View All TopSpec Products HereHigh-Fibre Help from HoneychopHoneychop recommend these products as partial forage replacers to supplement your horses diet:Honeychop Chopped Oat StrawHoneychop Lite and HealthyPerfect for supplementing forage while supporting a healthy gut and longer chewing times.View All Honeychop Products HereFood For Thought From ThunderbrookThunderbrook HayCobs can be fed soaked as a full or partial forage replacement:Thunderbrook HayCobsTOP FEEDING TIP: Soak Thunderbrook HayCobs before feeding, or use a treat ball to slow down eating and extend chewing time.The company also recommends Thunderbrook Healthy Herbal Chaff as a suitable partial forage replacement:Thunderbrook Healthy Herbal ChaffView All Thunderbrook Products HereDodson & Horrells Healthy Fibre FeedsDodson and Horrell advise the following options as suitable partial forage replacers:Dodson and Horrell High Fibre NutsDodson and Horrell Just GrassBoth are great options for supporting digestive health and providing quality fibre.View All Dodson and Horrell Products HereSupporting Stomachs with SaracenSaracen have the following options as partial forage replacers:Saracen Super Fibre CubesSaracen Recovery MashThese are ideal for horses prone to stomach ulcers or needing easy-to-digest fibre for recovery and maintenance.View All Saracen Products HereOther Forage AlternativesAnother full forage replacement solution is:Emerald Green Feeds Quality Grass PelletsOther partial forage replacement options include:Allen and Page Fast FibreKeyflow Pink MashFriendship Estates ReadiGrassRedpost Quicksoak Fast Beet 10Monitoring Condition and HealthWhenever you adjust your horses feed or reduce forage, its vital to monitor your horses weight and condition.Use body scoring or a weigh-tape to track progress, and watch for behavioural changes that may signal discomfort, boredom, or poor digestion.Ensure your horse gets adequate chewing time each day, essential for saliva production and digestive comfort.If you have any concerns about your horses health or diet, always consult your vet or an equine nutrition specialist.Rely on RedpostAt Redpost Equestrian, were here to help with practical feeding advice and a wide range of horse feeds, balancers, and supplements to keep your horse healthy all year round. Speak to our friendly team in-store or over the phone were committed to helping you find the best feed for your horse.If you need any further advice, give us a call on: 01803 812040Browse Our Full Range of Feed Here View Our Hay and Haylage Options HereShop Our Supplements HereThe post Winter Horse Feeding Guide: Best Forage Alternatives & Expert Advice first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

Section Key Points Importance of Winter Riding Gear Cold affects safety and performance. Moisture-wicking fabrics and layering to maintain body temperature. Jodhpurs vs. Tights Jodhpurs: Insulated, reinforced patches, classic style. Tights: Stretchy, fleece-lined, good for layering. Key Features Insulated Fabric Moisture-Wicking Technology Compression and Support Grip Patches and Comfort Waistband Pockets and Durability Top Recommendations for Jodhpurs Kerrits Winter Riding Breeches Ariat Venture Thermal Half Grip Tight Top Recommendations for Tights Kerrits Sit Tight Wind Pro Full Seat Tight Ariat Venture 2.0 Thermal Tights Choosing Winter Riding Gear Consider climate, discipline, layering, and comfort. Expert Tips Layer Up Protect Extremities Stay Dry Move Around Conclusion Choose jodhpurs or tights based on preference. Focus on insulation, moisture management, and grip for comfort and safety. Stay Warm in the Saddle: Top Recommendations for Winter Riding Jodhpurs and TightsAs the bright, warm days give way to the biting chill of winter, horse riders find themselves facing a common hurdle: how to remain warm, comfortable, and safe in the saddle. Whether you're grinding hard in training, whisking through competition circuits, or serenely riding a trail, the right gear can make or break your winter riding experience.Why Winter Riding Gear MattersWhen you're out riding, cold weather isn't merely a mild inconvenience; it can affect safety and performance. Cold muscles are more susceptible to injuries, while stiff, bulky outfits can constrain fluid movement and harm your riding posture. Its imperative to incorporate moisture-wicking fabrics and effective layering to maintain optimal body temperature, as recommended by the American Riding Instructors Association.Jodhpurs vs. Tights: What's the Difference?JodhpursEnter the ever-classic jodhpurs, traditional riding pants reaching the ankles, perfectly paired with riding boots. Stitched from a heavier insulated fabric, they strike a balance between being snug and providing warmth, ideal for winter. They come with reinforced patches for that extra grip and durability on the saddle (Harry Hall, 2023).Riding TightsRiding tights draw inspiration from athletic wear, known for their stretchiness and comfort. Some winters' must-haves include fleece-lined or insulated versions offering warmth without bulk. These tights serve well for layering and pair beautifully with various footwear, including boots or half chaps (Equinavia, 2023). Key Features to Look for in Winter Riding Jodhpurs and Tights Insulated Fabric: Seek those with brushed fleece interiors or thermal linings. Moisture-Wicking Technology: Essential to keep you dry and warm. Compression and Support: Boost circulation and reduce muscle fatigue. Grip Patches: Silicone knee patches or full-seat grips to stay firm in the saddle. Comfortable Waistband: Opt for a high-rise, wide waistband holding things together securely. Pockets: Handy for stashing essentials like keys or phones. Durability: Reinforced seams for enduring winter's harshest conditions.Top Recommendations for Winter Riding JodhpursKerrits Winter Riding BreechesKerrits, a renowned name in performance riding, delivers their winter breeches with grace and practicality. Available in knee patch and full seat styles, these breeches maintain a balance of form and function, with designs that keep you trendy even in the coldest months (Kerrits, 2023).Ariat Venture Thermal Half Grip TightA gem for layering, the Ariat Venture Thermal Tight goes beyond being just a base layer. Created with innovation, its AriatTEK Cold Series technology ensures that warmth hugs your core while Moisture Movement Technology whisks away the sweat (Farm House Tack, 2023). Top Recommendations for Winter Riding TightsKerrits Sit Tight Wind Pro Full Seat TightThe Kerrits Sit Tight Wind Pro Tight stands out as one of the toastiest options, taking on winters full might. With a robust Polartec Wind Pro exterior and soft fleece interior, warmth is never compromised. A wide waistband ensures comfort, and GripStretch suede patches offer medium technical grip (Horse Rookie, 2023).Ariat Venture 2.0 Thermal TightsNext in line, the Ariat Venture 2.0 Thermal Tights utilize recycled thermal fleece to deliver unmatched insulation and stretchability. The full seat grip provides extra control, while the wide waistband with belt loops flatters and secures (Riding Warehouse, 2025).How to Choose the Right Winter Riding GearWhen scouring options for the perfect winter riding get-up, factor in: Climate: Opt for pants with a robust outer shell in frosty, wet regions. Riding Discipline: Pick tights for dressage, while jodhpurs favor trail riders for durability. Layering: Tights offer ideal layering options. Fit and Comfort: Try different styles for the best match. Expert Tips for Staying Warm in the SaddleGive your winter experience more warmth with these tips: Layer Up: A moisture-wicking base under your outerwear helps regulate temperature. Protect Your Extremities: Gloves, a hat, and socks are paramount for warmth. Stay Dry: Wear moisture-shedding fabrics and eliminate cotton. Move Around: Stretch to keep your muscles flexible and warm. ConclusionWinter shouldn't spell doom for your equestrian pursuits. With excellent jodhpurs or tights, your rides can continue unhindered by the chill. Whether you lean toward the traditional aesthetics of jodhpurs or the modern chic look of tights, options abound that deliver comfort and class.Concentrating on key aspects like insulation, moisture management, and grip, these winter riding essentials cater to different preferences, ultimately keeping you warm and safe. Trust in these well-researched recommendations and make the cold season your favorite riding period.Remember, the right gear from Just Horse Riders equips you with the confidence and warmth to face those frosty gallops. Happy winter riding!```html```

Photo: Shelley PaulsonHorse owners often feed supplements to address gaps in their horses diet that forage and concentrates might not meet, such as supporting joint comfort, hoof quality, or muscle recovery. Researchers suggest that supplements can be beneficial when a horse has a documented deficiency, such as low vitamin or mineral levels, or a clearly identified need, such as poor hoof quality. Owners should always consult their horses veterinarian or an equine nutritionist when choosing supplements for their horse and prioritize those backed by research.Register and submit your questions for this Ask TheHorse Live event where two experts will discuss everything you need to know about equine supplements.Ask The Horse Live begins on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. EST Days Hours MinutesRegister NowAbout the Experts: Frank M. Andrews, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM (LAIM)Frank M. Andrews, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM (LAIM), is a graduate of Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Pullman, Washington, where he received a DVM and MS. After a year in private veterinary practice, he completed an Equine Medicine and Surgery Residency at The Ohio State University, in Columbus. After 20 years on the faculty at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, in Knoxville, he is currently LVMA Equine Committee Professor and Director of Equine Health and Sports Performance at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine (LSU Vet Med), in Baton Rouge. Andrews has clinical and research interests in gastric ulcers, gastrointestinal disease, and has done research on the efficacy of pharmacologic agents in the treatment of gastric ulcers in horses. Andrews is actively involved in clinical equine practice and clinical research.Liz Schatz, DVMLiz Schatz, DVM, is a graduate of the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, in Manhattan, where she was awarded the Glenn Ray Teagarden Award for Proficiency in Equine Medicine. After veterinary school, she completed an equine surgery internship at New Jersey Equine Clinic, in Millstone Township, and a Large Animal Medicine, Surgery, and Emergency/Critical Care internship at New Bolton Center, in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. She then completed a fellowship at the Comparative Orthopedic Research Laboratory while doing equine emergency work for New Bolton Center Field Service. She moved on to private practice for several years prior to joining SmartEquine in 2022, where her main area of interest is nutrition education. Schatz is a passionate Thoroughbred aftercare advocate and is an active volunteer for both MidAtlantic Horse Rescue and CANTER Pennsylvania. She is an avid lifelong rider and owns a horse farm in central North Carolina, where she cares for her own OTTBs and any number of beloved vagabond animals.

Episode 31: Saddle Fitting, Classical Riding & Putting Horse Welfare First with Claire WhitfieldSaddle fitting, classical riding and horse welfare all come crashing together in Episode 31 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, where host Aaron Englander sits down with saddle fitter and classical riding instructor Claire Whitfield for a deep dive into what really keeps horses happy and comfortable under saddle. If youve ever wondered whether your tack is helping or quietly hindering your horse, this is one of those conversations youll want to watch now or listen now and then re-watch with a notebook.Just Horse Riders specialises in the everyday kit riders rely on from jodhpurs and riding tights to horse riding boots, riding gloves, socks, everyday supplements and rugs, and this episode fits perfectly with the brands belief that good riding starts with the basics done well. Think of this as a friendly, slightly geeky tack-room chat that just happens to be recorded.If youd like the full experience, you can watch now on YouTube: Episode 31 Just Horse Riders Podcast with Claire Whitfield, or listen on Spotify via the Just Horse Riders show: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi.Meet Our Guest: Who Is Claire Whitfield?Claire Whitfield wears two hats and both sit very neatly on a classical foundation. Shes a saddle fitter and a classical riding instructor, working hands-on with horses and riders while also educating people about what good actually looks like in the saddle. In the podcast, Claire introduces herself simply as a riding instructor and classically trained rider who also works as a saddle fitter, but those few words hide decades of experience and study.Classical training is at the heart of everything she does. Claire talks about how she studied with classical masters and names like Sylvia Loch come up quickly. At one point she recalls, Ive been very lucky to have, a few lessons with Nina Varco as well as Sylvia Lockley, a slightly understated way of saying shes spent time with some of the most respected classical minds around. That influence runs right through her approach to both coaching and saddle fitting.A Classical Rider Who Fell in Love with Saddle FittingClaire didnt separate riding and saddle fitting into two different worlds; instead, she let them merge. Her work as a rider and coach naturally led her to ask questions about what horses were feeling under the saddle, how rider balance was affected by equipment, and why some combinations just never quite felt right. Saddle fitting became a way to answer those questions, not just another service to offer.In the episode, you can hear how methodical she is about building that knowledge. She talks about developing things over time, layering lessons, research and hands-on experience together. Its not about one magical clinic or single lightbulb moment, but a steady accumulation of insight from horses, teachers and real-world saddle fitting cases.Why Saddle Fit Matters More Than Most Riders ThinkEarly in the conversation, Aaron pulls out some rapid-fire questions about saddle fit the kind of FAQs riders secretly Google at 11pm after a ride that just didnt feel right. Instead of treating them like throwaway questions, Claire uses them to gently expose how much is going on beneath the saddle that most of us never see.One quick-fire question jumps straight to the heart of it: How can I tell if my saddle fits my horse? Claire doesnt reduce it to a single trick; instead, she explains that youre looking for balance, stability and comfort, both at rest and in motion. The saddle should look level, not tipping forwards or backwards, and the horse should move freely without resistance or tightness through the back.Behaviour Is Often a Pain ConversationWhen Aaron asks about red-flag behaviour, Claire gives one of those simple, memorable answers that can change how you read your horse. She says one warning sign of saddle discomfort is horses not wanting to go forward. In other words, the horse that feels lazy or stubborn might actually be saying, this hurts.That idea comes up repeatedly in different ways throughout the episode: what we label as naughty or difficult can often be a physical problem, and saddle fit is high on the list of suspects. Tail swishing, ear pinning during tacking up, reluctance to be mounted, hollowing the back, bucking or rushing these may not be attitude issues so much as comfort issues.How Often Should You Check Your Saddle?One of the clearest, most quotable lines in the episode comes when Aaron asks how often a saddle should be checked or adjusted. Claire answers: Ideally the saddle should be checked at least every six months, depending on workload, seasonal changes. Its refreshingly straightforward and probably more frequent than many riders realise.Why six months? Horses change shape constantly: gaining fitness, losing muscle, changing weight with the seasons, or simply ageing. A saddle that was perfect in spring can be pinching by autumn if the horse has slimmed down, or rocking if the horse has developed more topline. Checking twice a year (or more often for young, rehabbing or very hard-working horses) is about staying ahead of those changes instead of reacting when a problem becomes obvious.Can One Saddle Fit Multiple Horses?Another favourite rider question is whether one saddle can do several horses. In the quick-fire section, Aaron asks exactly that, and you can almost hear Claires careful diplomatic face through the audio. She points out that it all depends on the shapes in question, the adjustability of the saddle, and how much compromise youre willing to accept.Beneath the humour, the message is clear: each horse is an individual, and while some saddles can be adjusted to suit more than one horse, one size fits all is more marketing slogan than reality. If youre sharing a saddle, regular checks become even more important especially if youve got one wide, flat cob and one narrower, more angular type trying to live under the same panels.Thicker Saddle Pads, Quick Fixes and Other MythsThe episode opens with a question many of us have quietly wondered: Is a thicker saddle pad ever a good fix for a poor fit? Its the horse-world equivalent of Can I just put another cushion under this wobbly chair and hope for the best?Claires answer is, unsurprisingly, not a glowing recommendation. While the transcript doesnt give a single line like absolutely not, the discussion makes it clear that piling pads under a badly fitting saddle is almost never the elegant solution we want it to be. A thicker pad can sometimes help in very specific, carefully assessed cases but it can just as easily create new pressure points, bridge the saddle, or make it unstable.The takeaway is simple: use pads as tools, not band-aids. If you suspect the saddle itself is wrong in tree width, shape or balance, call a fitter rather than reaching for a fluffier half pad and hoping for the best.Rider Balance, Weight Aids and the Classical SeatOne of the most fascinating threads in the episode is how Claires classical training influences her saddle fitting. This isnt just about the horses back; its about the riders seat, pelvis and balance too. A saddle that fits on paper but tips the rider into a chair seat or perches them on the fork is still a problem.Talking about her mentor, Claire says, So her, her ethos is mainly down to the riders balance. That line sums up a huge part of the episode. If the rider is crooked, braced or tipped, the horses job becomes instantly harder and thats before we even talk about contact or lateral work. A good saddle should support the rider in sitting centrally and softly, not fighting the design just to feel straight.Invisible Aids and Subtle CommunicationClassical riding is famous for making the hard things look easy. Claire explains how tiny shifts of weight and balance can become powerful, gentle aids when the rider is truly centred. Those weight aids that so many riders hear about vaguely arent some mystical trick; theyre the logical next step when horse and rider are both comfortable and in balance.This is where saddle fit and classical training really merge. If the saddle puts the rider behind the movement or collapses one hip, those weight aids become muddy or even contradictory. The horse gets mixed messages and may start to resist, rush or fall in. Fixing the saddle doesnt replace schooling but it does give the schooling a fair chance to work.From Clinics to Amigo: A Quick Look at Claires JourneyOne of the sweetest moments in the transcript is when Claire talks about travelling with friends to ride with Sylvia Loch, and how a horse named Amigo ended up changing her life. She recalls that Amigo eventually came home with me, a simple sentence that every horse person understands on a very deep level.Stories like this are sprinkled throughout the episode, giving context to the technical talk. Youre not just listening to a list of saddle fitting rules; youre hearing from someone who has lived through the ups and downs of real horses, real training problems and real what on earth is happening with this saddle? moments. It makes the advice feel grounded and reassuring rather than preachy.Simple At-Home Saddle Fit Checks You Can Try TodayWhile nothing replaces a qualified fitter, Claires conversation with Aaron offers a few practical ideas riders can put into practice straight away. Think of them as early-warning indicators rather than a full diagnostic tool.Before You Mount UpStart with the saddle on the horses back without a pad, placed slightly forward and then slid back into position so it nestles behind the shoulder. Look at it from the side does it appear broadly level, or does the pommel or cantle noticeably sit much higher or lower?Then run your hand under the panels (carefully and gently) to check for even contact along the back. Any obvious holes where the panel lifts off, or sharp edges where all the pressure is concentrated, are reasons to ask a fitter for help rather than shrugging and tightening the girth.After You RideWhen you take the saddle off, dont rush straight to the hose. Have a look at sweat patterns and ruffled hair. While these arent perfect diagnostic tools, they can give clues dry patches surrounded by sweat, for example, might indicate uneven pressure.And, perhaps most importantly, watch your horses behaviour before, during and after the ride. Does girthing up always trigger pinned ears or tail swishing? Does mounting involve dancing around or stepping away from the block? These small moments can be your horses way of asking you to check something isnt right.Working with Professionals (And Why Its Worth It)Throughout the discussion, Claire keeps circling back to teamwork. Saddle fit isnt something that exists in a bubble. In tricky cases, she talks about working alongside vets, physios and other professionals to get the full picture of what a horse is feeling and why.That same mindset applies to everyday riders. Having a trusted fitter, coach and bodyworker on your horse team isnt about being fancy; its about sharing responsibility for your horses comfort and soundness. A fitter can see things you cant from the saddle, and a coach can spot patterns in your position long before they solidify into habits.Supporting the Whole Picture: Tack, Rugs and Everyday CareGood saddle fit is one piece of a much bigger welfare puzzle. The rest of the horses life turnout, rugging, nutrition, hoof care, training, even how we reward and relax them all feed into how they move and feel under saddle.Thats where thoughtful kit choices come in. If youre reassessing your saddle, it can be a great time to also check your wider setup: are your turnout rugs and stable rugs helping maintain a healthy weight and topline? Are you using everyday supplements that support muscle, joints and general condition? Even small choices like better-fitting jodhpurs, secure riding boots, grippy gloves and comfortable riding socks can help the rider stay balanced and relaxed.And of course, a happy horse is allowed to be a little bit spoiled. Thoughtful treats and gifts, plus good fly protection, can make their day-to-day environment calmer and more pleasant which only helps when you ask them to work under saddle.Why Conversations Like This MatterWhat makes Episode 31 stand out is how human it feels. Yes, theres talk of trees, flocking, balance and biomechanics, but its all wrapped up in real stories, genuine curiosity and the occasional laugh at the shared realities of horse life. Aaron isnt afraid to ask the obvious questions, and Claire isnt interested in making anyone feel silly for not knowing the answers yet.Underneath the humour is a serious message: our horses dont get to choose their saddles, riders or routines. Its on us to keep learning, keep checking, and keep listening when they tell us something isnt right. Whether that means booking a fitter, tweaking your training, or retiring a beloved but no-longer-suitable saddle, the goal is always the same a horse who can move freely, comfortably and happily.Watch or Listen to the Full EpisodeIf this article has sparked a few hmm moments, thats your cue to go straight to the source and hear the full conversation between Aaron and Claire. Theres a lot more nuance, laughter and practical detail than can fit on one page.You can watch Episode 31 now on YouTube:https://youtu.be/7OD7nmOQjXkOr listen on Spotify and follow the Just Horse Riders Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKiStay Connected with Just Horse RidersFor more episodes, product reviews and everyday horse chat, you can connect with Just Horse Riders across social media and the main website:Website: http://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOfficalWhether youre a happy hacker, aspiring dressage rider or busy pony-parent, Episode 31 is packed with insight you can apply straightaway. Pop the kettle on, hit play, and let Claire and Aaron keep you company while you rethink what good saddle fit really means for you and your horse.

Legendary Olympic rider Andrew Hoy has shared road safety advice for hacking riders and motorists via the British Horse Societys (BHS) Dead Slow campaign, which is now approaching its 10th year.The Australian eventer stressed that respect and space on the road matters not just for horses, but for everyone, and reminded road users that small actions can have a big impact.As an equestrian and a road user as well, road safety is important to all of us, he said. I am delighted to support the BHS in the road safety campaign. Andrew said that it was important for riders to be respectful, as to be respected you have to be respectful.He outlined the clear rules for motor vehicle drivers passing horses: There must be a minimum of two meters between a horse and a vehicle and they must not be travelling at more than 10 miles an hour.He also highlighted hand gestures riders can use to guide motorists, such as slow down (with an up and down arm motion), or stop for if youre on an inexperienced horse.Most importantly, you must always thank drivers, Andrew said. It is really, really key that you thank drivers who have shown you good respect.Credit: British Horse SocietyEssential pieces of workBHS Safety Team Leader, Des Payne, said he was delighted to have Andrews support and reflected on the legacy of the Dead Slow campaign, which was launched almost 10 years ago.Its been an important collaborative initiative to inform and involve road users on how to pass horses safely on the road, he told Your Horse.In this time, weve had significant success including the introduction of our Dead Slow behavioural messages in The Highway Code and, most recently, a Dead Slow awareness ride with Project EDWARD led to a presentation Bill being introduced to parliament.These are essential pieces of work to increase the safety of equestrians and their horses, and we continue to work hard to make sure such initiatives drive even greater change.For the future, the focus of the campaign will remain on educating all road users about the importance of passing horses safely and the guidance in place in The Highway Code.This includes working with the Driving Instructor Association, police forces, companies with a large base of employed drivers, as well as other organisations to deliver the behavioural messages directly to the public.Presentations in schoolsThe BHS also plans to roll out more Henry the Horse presentations across the UK. This programme is delivered in primary schools, with the aim of educating children on equine road safety. Weve found that the presentations have been a great way to communicate with an engaging audience who can take this insight away and share it with their parents or caregiver, said Mr Payne.We await the second reading of the Road Traffic (horse and rider safety) Bill, introduced by MP Lee Dillon. Ahead of this, we want to support the industry to come together collectively to urge our MPs to support this matter. Our focus continues to be on helping our members to write to their MP to address the Bill, as well as communicating with Lee Dillon to help drive this forward.Bringing equestrian voices to parliament will be a critical way to make sure the proper tools are in place to protect horses and riders from dangerous driving this is a key focus for us.Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of our volunteers, key stakeholders and the equestrian community. Were so pleased to be collaborating with Andrew Hoy, along with other key figures across the industry, to really get the message out there. The support of powerful case studies also continues to help us really highlight the challenges horses face on our roads every day, which is critical when communicating with those who are not connected to the equine world.Lead image by Charlie Gooders PhotographyRelated contentThe Highway Code: what it means for horse ridersCould not wearing high vis leave horse riders liable in a road accident? Solicitor answersMP asks Parliament to prioritise horse and rider road safetyThis is why hacking a horse in-hand will do wonders for your bond and confidenceThe post To be respected you have to be respectful: Andrew Hoy shares road safety wisdom appeared first on Your Horse.