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.
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 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.
She has attended many clinics and courses including the Advanced Saddle Fitting Course provided by the Society of Master Saddlers, Bench and Onsite Adjustment Course provided by the Society of Master Saddlers, Introduction To Bridle Fitting provided by the Society of Master Saddlers, Fairfax, Kent & Masters and Thorowgood product training, fitting and product course from Prestige Italia with their lead Master Saddler as well as training with the original founder of Renaissance.
Lydia brings along a wealth of knowledge not only in regards to saddle and bridle fitting, but also from her own experience as a rider.
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.
How long does the trial last?:
-You have a 5-day trial period starting from the day the saddle arrives at your door - not the day it ships.
-During that time, you are welcome to test the saddle to ensure it fits your horse & suits your riding needs
-Please plan accordingly. If you intend to work with a saddle fitter, we recommend scheduling them in advance so your fitting can take place within the 5-day trial window.
Are there limitations when I try the saddle?
You are encouraged to ride in the saddle, but please ensure it remains in excellent condition, as saddles returned with wear or damage may be subject to a 20% restocking fee.
-English saddles: If using stirrups, please wrap your stirrup leathers to avoid scuffing the saddle.
-Western saddles: Please wrap stirrups in plastic bags during the trial.
If a saddle arrives to you with cosmetic marks or wear that were not visible in the photo of the saddle on our website, please contact us immediately with clear photos so that we can assist you.
What are the Shipping Fees?
We charge a flat-rate shipping fee of $50 for all saddles shipped within Canada & USA.(Some remote areas may be subject to a shipping surcharge—we’ll inform you before shipping if this applies.)
-USA customers: We are happy to ship saddles to the USA, but please note that tariffs & taxes may apply and are the responsibility of the buyer. These fees will need to be pre-paid promptly to the carrier (usually UPS) before they will deliver your package. Please watch for an e-mail from the carrier within a day or two of shipping for information on how these government fees can be paid to them online.
How can I return a saddle purchased online?
If you decide to return a saddle it must be shipped back within the trial window & in original condition.
-Please use the return feature on your Order History Page on sprucewoodtack.com within 5 days of receipt of your saddle to request an RA#.
-Once you have submitted your RA# request, please allow 1 business day for us to process the request.
-You will receive an e-mail with an RA# & return shipping address. Please print a copy of this email from us & include it in the box with your return.
-Please be sure to add insurance for the full purchase price to protect yourself if the package is lost or damaged in transit.
-Return shipping charges are the responsibility of the customer.
-Once we receive and inspect your returned saddle, we will process your refund promptly. Please note that refunds may take several business days to appear on your credit card account depending on your payment provider.
How do I book a fitting with a Sprucewood saddle-fitter?
Please filled our saddle fitting form and one of our saddle fitters will get back to you to set-up a fitting.
Do you take used saddles on consignment?
Yes, we do take some makes & models of quality saddles on consignment. To see if your saddle is eligible for consignment & for more details, please contact one of our fitters: saddle@sprucewoodtack.com