Why Custom Saddlery Makes the Best Dressage Saddles for You and Your Horse

When I first started riding, like a lot of beginners, I opted for a Wintec all-purpose saddle. Why? It was adjustable, and with horses (just like people), things change constantly.

Adjustability was huge for me, and I thought I was all set. But then I was introduced to Custom Saddlery at my training barn, Dreamcatcher Meadows—funny enough, they’re now one of my sponsored riders!

Their tack room was full of Custom Saddlery saddles, and my coach was a huge fan. Once I got my first “real” dressage horse, it was time to take the plunge and work with a Custom Saddlery rep to get my horse her very own saddle.

My horse was only 3 at the time, which is super young in horse years, and the best part was that I learned Custom Saddles can grow and adjust with the horse as they change.

This was a game changer for me.

Finding The Perfect Fit

Working with Custom reps is kind of like going to a car dealership, but way more fun (and less pressure!). The reps come out with a trailer full of demo saddles, each with different trees, knee blocks, and models.

My horse was what we call "downhill" at the time, which means she wasn’t balanced yet, and we probably tried every single saddle in the collection. I love that you can try before you buy—how else do you know if it’s right for you?

After lots of trial and error, we found the one that worked, and I took the fitter’s advice. Now, here’s the part I love: I’m still riding in that same saddle today. My horse is now 14, and we’re both still loving the fit of our Custom Saddlery saddle. 

The fact that it’s lasted 11 years says everything you need to know about the quality. It’s been through everything—trail rides, rain, and probably way more wear and tear than I should admit to, but it’s still going strong.

Durability and Options for Every Horse

Not every horse sticks with the same saddle or model as they grow, but that’s another reason why I’m such a fan of Custom Saddlery.

They’ve got so many options. In fact, I’ve got over 45 saddles in my demo inventory alone, so I’m pretty confident that I can find the right saddle for every horse and rider.

Sure, it might take a little time to test them all out, but the innovative designs and adjustability options Custom offers are worth it. They’ve truly created some of the best dressage saddles for horses at every stage.

Plus, here’s a little insider info: Custom Saddlery offers a trade-in program, which makes upgrading so much easier if you need to down the line. If your horse changes, or if you end up selling your horse and need something new, Custom will offer a buy-back price.

It’s a lot like trading in your car, and it definitely helps put your mind at ease when you’re making that initial investment.

Customizing Options

Now, let’s talk about one of my absolute favorite things about Custom Saddlery: the customizations. When I was a teen buying my first custom saddle, I remember spending hours in the demo trailer, looking at all the options—colors, designs, crystals, fabrics. It was like a dream come true for a horse-crazy kid!

Blue mock croc? You got it! Classy black with diamantes? No problem. It’s seriously one of the best parts of working with this brand.

Even though I tend to prefer a more classic dressage look these days, I love helping clients create their dream saddle with some of the wilder options. One of my favorite custom designs was a stunning multi-shade brown saddle with leather tooling—it was gorgeous!

And when I do in-person fittings, I still bring rings with different leather types, colors, and crystals so riders can mix and match. It’s so fun to watch them get excited about the possibilities, just like I did back in the day.

Full Circle Moment

Looking back, it’s pretty surreal to think about how I used to stand in awe of the demo saddles in the rep’s trailer, and now, I’m the one traveling around with a mobile tack shop, helping people find their perfect match.

I get to work with riders of all levels, helping them experience the joy of riding in one of the best dressage saddles out there.

Custom Saddlery truly stands out because they’ve thought of everything—adjustability, durability, and that personal touch with custom designs.

Whether you’re just getting your first horse or you’re upgrading as your horse grows, Custom Saddles are designed to go the distance, ensuring you’re investing in something that will last for years to come.

What questions do you have about Custom Saddlery or True North?