How to Fit a Western Tack Set
A Simple Guide for Beginners
If you're just getting into Western riding or bought a new tack set for your horse, knowing how to fit it correctly is essential. A well-fitted tack keeps your horse comfortable, prevents injuries, and ensures a safer ride for you.
Let’s walk through the basics of fitting a standard Western tack set.
🐎 What’s Included in a Western Tack Set?
Most Western tack sets include:
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Saddle
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Saddle pad
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Headstall (bridle)
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Breast collar
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Reins
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Cinch (girth)
Each part has a specific purpose, and getting the right fit makes a big difference in how your horse performs and feels.
1. Start With the Saddle Pad
Lay the saddle pad flat on your horse’s back, just slightly forward of where it will rest, and slide it back into place. This smooths the hair and helps it sit in the natural position.
✅ Make sure the pad extends 1–2 inches beyond the saddle on all sides.
✅ If your horse has high withers or special needs, look for contoured or orthopedic pads.
2. Placing the Saddle
Gently set the saddle on top of the pad, then slide it slightly forward and back into position behind the withers.
Check for:
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A level seat (not tilting forward or back)
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2–3 fingers of clearance in the gullet over the withers
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No pinching or rocking at the shoulders
3. Securing the Cinch
Attach the front cinch to the saddle's rigging ring. It should lie about 4 inches behind your horse’s front legs.
Fit tip: You should be able to slip two fingers under the cinch. Snug, but not tight.
If your saddle has a back cinch, make sure it’s not loose enough to flap or tight enough to pinch.
4. Fitting the Breast Collar
Attach the breast collar to the D-rings on the front of your saddle. This helps keep the saddle from sliding back—especially during fast-paced riding or trail work.
✅ The collar should rest above the point of the shoulders.
✅ You should be able to fit a flat hand between the collar and your horse’s chest.
✅ The center strap (to the cinch) should prevent the collar from sliding upward.
5. Headstall and Bit Fit
Slide the headstall gently over your horse’s ears and place the bit in the mouth.
Adjust as needed:
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The bit should create 1–2 soft wrinkles at the corners of the mouth
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The browband shouldn’t press on the ears
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The throatlatch should allow space for 2–3 fingers
6. Attach the Reins
Once the headstall is fitted properly, attach your reins. When relaxed, there should be a slight loop in the reins—not tight or pulling.
Final Tips Before You Ride
✔️ Always double-check your cinch after mounting—it can loosen once your horse moves.
✔️ Make sure nothing is pinching, bunching, or sliding out of place.
✔️ Regularly clean and inspect your tack for any wear or damage.
Taking the time to fit your tack correctly helps build trust with your horse and makes every ride more enjoyable. Whether you're riding in the arena, on the trail, or working cattle, good gear and a good fit are key.