uncomfortable saddle.....

Hi. I have just started with a new share pony but am finding her saddle so uncomfortable (or I am just not used to it). It is a thorogood part synthetic (I think) and I find it hard to get comfortable and not bounce around too much. Also my feet keep slipping in the stirrups so much, they don't have grips in the bootoms of them, could this be the problem? Was thinking of trying a different pair next time.

Thanks

Honestly, it could be rider error - the saddle can make a bit of a difference, but with the stirrup thing, usually that's due to a person pinching with the knee rather than a tack problem. Bouncing is another thing that can't be completely blamed on the saddle.
Having said all of that, perhaps you can chat with the owner about buying a saddle that you can use on the pony?

Hi

When I got my second horse, I was bouncing SOOO much because she's a standardbred and my first pony was a little welsh mountain pony. After a wihle I got better as I got used to her bouncy trot. Perhaps you just need to get used to your horse's trot?

For stirrups, you can buy treads that help stop your feet from slipping.

See this link : http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk/ind...?cPath=153_161 for pictures of stirrup treads.

The only time I've had the problem you are describing is when I was riding a saddle that was significantly too small for my big ol' butt (like getting on a lesson horse to show him that just because 8 year old Suzie can't make him canter doesn't mean he gets out of work). In those cases, I usually end up 2-pointing so I don't get a pommel in the unmentionables. However, if you are also having problems with your stirrups, I agree with JDI, it sounds like tension.