Saddle Information hero banner
Saddle Information hero banner

Saddle Information

Have questions about our saddles, in-barn saddle fitting service, or the saddle trial process?

Fill out one of the pop-up forms below and we will be in contact.

Saddle Fitting Form Saddle Question Form

Meet Our Saddle Fitters

Here at Sprucewood, we believe that proper saddle fit is imperative to success for horse and rider. Our knowledgeable fitters with extensive training are here to help you find the best saddle solution for you and your horse. Currently, we have two full-time saddle fitters on staff, both with experience and expertise to provide you the best service possible.

Fitter #1
Nathan

Nathan began his saddle fitting journey many years ago assisting his father on fittings in his youth. After attending the University of Guelph, Nathan began his formal training apprenticing with Dennis while also traveling to Italy, Germany, the United States and England to learn from the top saddle makers in the world. He visited many factories to learn directly from saddle designers about the fit philosophy, features and options from multiple brands.

Formal training from the Society of Master Saddlers, Prestige Italia, Stubben, Vale Brothers & more has rounded out his education. Nathan has continued to attend clinics, seminars and courses through the years to further his knowledge and remain up to date on the latest research and technology in regards to saddles and their impact on the physiology of the horse.

This well-rounded approach, taking the best of all different saddle fitting philosophies, has made Nathan one of the most sought-after saddle fitters in Ontario.

Fitter #2
Lydia

Lydia's passion for horses began at a young age and has continued through her adult life, leading her to a career in the equestrian industry. Not only has she completed an extensive apprenticeship with Nathan, but also individual training courses in line with Sprucewood's philosophy of continual growth in knowledge and experience.

Her comprehensive training includes the Advanced Saddle Fitting Course and Bench and Onsite Adjustment Course provided by the Society of Master Saddlers, Introduction to Bridle Fitting from the Society of Master Saddlers, as well as specialized training from Fairfax, Kent & Masters and a product fitting course from Prestige Italia with their lead Master Saddler. She has also received training from the original founder of Renaissance, bringing expertise across multiple leading brands and fitting philosophies.

Lydia brings a wealth of knowledge not only in saddle and bridle fitting but also from her own experience as a rider. Her dedication to continuous learning and diverse training background make her an excellent resource for customers seeking expert guidance on equine saddle and tack fitting.

Fitter #3
Hannah

Hannah’s passion for horses began at a young age, growing up riding in the Ottawa area and developing a career in the equestrian industry that has now spanned more than 12 years. With over 18 years in the saddle, she has built a diverse background encompassing high-level competition, professional grooming, breeding and saddle fitting.

Her experience has taken her throughout the equestrian industry, including working internationally as a groom and at Spruce Meadows. As a show jumper herself, Hannah has developed a deep understanding of the demands placed on both horse and rider, and the importance of maintaining comfort, balance and freedom of movement throughout a horse’s career.

Hannah spent three years as a saddle fitter with Voltaire Design, where she gained extensive experience fitting a wide variety of horses and riders across disciplines and levels of competition. This experience, combined with her practical knowledge of horses and riding, has given her a well-rounded perspective on the relationship between saddle fit, horse biomechanics and rider position.

Hannah approaches every fitting with the belief that the horse must come first. Her goal is to find a solution that respects each horse’s individual conformation, movement and needs, while supporting the rider in achieving a balanced and effective position. By combining her experience as a rider, groom and saddle fitter, Hannah brings a thoughtful and practical approach to every fitting, with the welfare and performance of the horse at the forefront.

Check Out Our Saddle Fitting Tips

Sprucewood Saddle Trial Policy

At Sprucewood, we know that finding the correct saddle for you & your horse is a process that takes care & consideration.
That is why we offer saddle trials on every saddle we sell, so you can test ride with peace of mind.