Adjustable saddles are often seen as the “easy solution” to saddle fitting, but the reality is a little more nuanced.
Yes, they can adapt as your horse changes shape. No, they don’t automatically fit every horse.
In this guide, we’ll explain how adjustable saddles actually work, when they’re a brilliant option, and when they’re not, so you can make the right decision with confidence.
What is an adjustable saddle?
An adjustable saddle is designed to allow changes to the fit of the saddle as your horse’s shape evolves over time.
Most commonly, this adjustment happens at the front of the saddle using interchangeable gullet bars or headplates. These change the width of the saddle tree over your horse’s withers and shoulders.
Some saddles go further and allow adjustments to the tree itself, but it’s important to understand: Adjustable does not mean fully customisable
While width can be altered, the following remain fixed:
- Tree shape
- Panel design
- Saddle balance
So choosing the right gullet bar is only part of the picture, the underlying saddle still needs to suit your horse.
If you're exploring your options, you can browse our full range of GP Saddles, Dressage Saddles, and Jump Saddles to see how different saddle types are designed for different riding styles.
Types of Adjustable Saddles
Not all adjustable saddles work in the same way and this is where a lot of confusion comes from.
| Type | What Adjusts? | Who Adjusts? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Changeable Gullet | Width at front | Rider / fitter | Growing or fluctuating horses |
| Adjustable Tree | Width at front | Saddle fitter | Small adjustments |
| Changeable Headplate | Width (more structured) | Saddle fitter | Performance saddles |
⚠️ Remember while adjustable saddles offer remarkable flexibility, they are not universal
Will an Adjustable Saddle Fit Any Horse?
Short answer: no... and this is where many riders get caught out.
Adjustable saddles allow you to change the width of the saddle, but they do not change the fundamental shape.
Every saddle is built on a specific tree, with a defined panel shape and balance. If that base design doesn’t suit your horse, adjusting the width won’t fix it.
For example:
- A flat-backed cob will still struggle in a curved saddle
- A high-withered horse may need more panel depth, not just a narrower width
- A horse with asymmetry may need flocking adjustments, not just a different gullet
👉 Key takeaway:
An adjustable saddle is only effective if the base saddle already suits your horse.
If you're unsure whether your current saddle shape is suitable, our virtual saddle fitting service can help you assess fit before making adjustments.
When Adjustable Saddles Work Brilliantly
When used correctly, adjustable saddles are incredibly useful. They’re a great option for:
- 🐎 Young horses developing through work
- 🌱 Horses building muscle or changing condition
- ⚖️ Seasonal weight fluctuations
- 🔄 Owners wanting flexibility without replacing saddles
They allow you to make small adjustments as your horse evolves, which can save time, money, and stress.
⚠️ When They Might Not Be the Best Choice
Adjustable saddles aren’t always the answer. They may not be ideal if:
- Your horse has complex conformation challenges
- You need a highly specialised or competition-level fit
- The saddle’s tree shape fundamentally doesn’t suit your horse
In these cases, a fixed tree or more specialist solution may be better.
⚖️ Pros & Cons of Adjustable Saddles
✅ Pros
- Can adapt to changes in your horse’s shape
- More cost-effective long-term
- Widely available across disciplines
- Ideal for young or fluctuating horses
❌ Cons
- Only adjusts width (not full fit)
- Easy to misuse without guidance
- Gullet systems are not interchangeable
- Doesn’t solve underlying fit issues
🚫 Common Mistakes Riders Make
This is where most problems come from... not the saddle itself, but how it’s used.
The biggest mistakes:
- Assuming adjustable means “fits anything”
- Changing the gullet bar to fix unrelated issues
- Mixing gullet systems between brands
- Ignoring panel contact and saddle balance
👉 Adjustable saddles are a tool — not a shortcut.
Tools That Can Help You Get It Right
Understanding your horse’s shape is key to using an adjustable saddle properly.
Tools like a templating kit (such as the Perfect Fit Kit) can help you:
- Track changes in your horse’s shape
- Compare saddle width more accurately
- Communicate more effectively with your saddle fitter
How to Choose the Right Adjustable Saddle
If you’re considering an adjustable saddle, here’s how to approach it:
1. Start with the right tree shape
This is the most important step — width comes second.
2. Check panel contact and balance
The saddle should sit evenly and distribute pressure correctly.
3. Use adjustability for fine-tuning
Not as a fix for a fundamentally poor fit.
4. Get expert input where possible
Even with adjustable systems, guidance makes a huge difference.
Adjustable Saddles by Discipline:
Different disciplines place different demands on saddle design.
You can explore options here:
- GP Saddles (everyday riding)
- Dressage Saddles (flatwork & precision)
- Jump Saddles (forward seat & security)
Adjustable Saddle FAQs
Do adjustable saddles fit every horse?
No, they adjust width, not overall shape. The base saddle still needs to suit your horse.
Can you use padding or shims with adjustable saddles?
Adding padding, numnahs, or shims will not remedy an ill-fitting saddle. Especially if it is already too tight, adding more cushioning won’t help. It may actually make the saddle more unbalanced and alter your riding position.
We want the saddle to fit the horse without the need for additional padding or shims. However, shims and pads can be helpful, to add comfort and your saddle fitter can advise in finding the best pad and saddle combination.
Saddles with foam panels are the most compatible with external riser systems such as ProLite pads. These pads can be used or removed as necessary to alter the depth at the front or rear to support the balance of the saddle. But remember, these should be used under the advice and recommendation of your saddle fitter.
Can I change a gullet bar myself?
Some systems allow this, but it’s always best checked by a professional.
How often should I change the gullet bar?
Only when your horse’s shape changes, not as a routine adjustment.
Are adjustable saddles good for young horses?
Yes, they’re often ideal for horses developing and changing shape.
Adjustable saddles are a brilliant innovation, but they’re often misunderstood.
Used correctly, they offer flexibility and long-term value. Used incorrectly, they can lead to just as many fit issues as any other saddle.
The key is simple:
Start with the right saddle, then use adjustability to refine the fit, not replace it.
Adjustable Saddle Latest Arrivals
We hope this Adjustable Saddle Guide has provided you with valuable insights and knowledge, empowering you to make informed decisions when it comes to finding the perfect saddle for you and your horse. We understand that choosing an adjustable saddles can feel overwhelming, but remember the pressure isn’t all on you to get it right. So, reach out, ask questions, and let us guide you towards finding the perfect adjustable saddle for you and your horse.
If you're still in doubt or unsure about which saddle is best suited for you and your horse, don't hesitate to book a fitting with an independent saddle fitter or one of our expert SD fitters. They will bring a range of saddles for you to trial, helping you find the perfect match that provides both comfort and support for you and your horse.