How to Become a Saddle Fitter Through the Society of Master Saddlers

Saddle fitting is one of the most rewarding careers in the equestrian world. It’s hands-on, horse-focused, and requires both technical skill and scientific understanding. But it’s also a career that demands rigorous training and dedication.

In the UK, the Society of Master Saddlers (SMS) offers the most respected route into saddle fitting. Their training pathway ensures that every fitter is not only skilled, but also committed to horse welfare and continuing education.

Step 1: Laying the Foundations

Before applying for the SMS pathway, you’ll need a solid foundation in horsemanship and tack knowledge. Many saddle fitters come from backgrounds such as:

• Riding, coaching, or training horses

• Saddlery and leatherwork

• Equine therapy or veterinary care

• Long-term horse ownership and management

This base knowledge helps future fitters understand the needs of both horse and rider before moving into the technical side of fitting.

Step 2: Introduction to Saddle Fitting

The first formal step is the SMS Introduction to Saddle Fitting Course. This course is designed for anyone considering a career in fitting and covers:

• Basic saddle construction

• Conformation and how it influences fit

• The principles of balance and clearance

• Templates and back profiles

• Spotting common problems

It’s the “gateway” into the profession and gives you a taste of what’s involved before committing to full training.

Step 3: The SMS Saddle Fitting Qualification

Once accepted onto the training programme, you begin the structured Saddle Fitting Qualification. This involves:

• Online theory modules covering anatomy, biomechanics, saddle design, and fitting principles

• Practical training days with horses and riders, learning to assess both statically and dynamically

• Hands-on experience under the supervision of qualified SMS fitters

• Client communication skills, teaching you how to explain findings clearly and professionally

This stage usually takes 18 months to 3 years, depending on your prior experience and how quickly you work through the modules and practice.

Step 4: The Flocking Qualification

An essential requirement of becoming an SMS saddle fitter is completing the Saddle Flocking and Adjustment Qualification.

Why does this matter? Because being a fitter isn’t just about assessing the saddle — it’s also about being able to adjust it. During this course you learn how to:

• Reflock a saddle using traditional wool flocking

• Make small adjustments to balance

• Identify when a saddle needs more significant repair or tree work

This ensures that SMS fitters can provide a complete service, rather than relying solely on others to carry out the adjustments.

Step 5: Final Assessment

At the end of the programme, candidates complete rigorous assessments, which include:

• Written theory exams

• Practical assessments fitting multiple horses

• Dynamic evaluations, watching horse and rider in work

• Client-facing communication, ensuring you can explain findings clearly

Passing these assessments qualifies you as an SMS Registered Saddle Fitter — a title respected throughout the equestrian world.

Step 6: Lifelong Learning

Saddle fitting doesn’t stop once you’ve passed the exam. Horses change, tack design evolves, and new research shapes best practice. That’s why the SMS requires all fitters to complete continuing professional development (CPD) every year.

This means an SMS fitter is never standing still — they’re constantly updating their knowledge to give horses and riders the best possible care.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a saddle fitter through the Society of Master Saddlers isn’t quick or easy — and that’s exactly why the qualification carries so much respect. It ensures that those who carry the title are well-trained, knowledgeable, and committed to horse welfare above all else.

For riders, choosing an SMS Qualified Saddle Fitter means you’re choosing someone who has invested years in training, assessment, and ongoing learning.

👉 Want to learn more? Visit the Society of Master Saddlers for details about the training pathway and qualification process.