The creation of a dressage saddle always begins with a tryout apoinment a visit to the stable, with both rider and horse present.
This appointment allows our technical advisor to get to know you and gather all essential information: discovering the horse and rider, work habits, and more.
Manufacturing a custom-made saddle requires precise measurements. During the fitting appointment 25 measurement points on the horse’s back and the saddle are carefully recorded on a dedicated document the only way to guarantee the creation of a truly unique, 100% custom saddle.
The measurements taken from the horse’s back help determine, in particular, the type and size of the saddle tree.
These details are archived and allow for comparative measurements during follow-up visits (for example, to monitor a young horse’s growth and adjust the saddle tree if necessary).
To fine-tune adjustments in motion, we then use a trial saddle that allows us to test different options. The rider is asked to mount using this trial saddle and warm up at the three gaits so we can observe the horse’s movement and the rider’s position and functionality in the saddle.
By observing the horse’s gaits, balance, back suppleness, and range of motion, this postural assessment allows us to guide the rider toward a correct and well-adapted position based on their riding style and level, by adjusting the saddle settings accordingly.
We “build” your dressage saddle around the horse’s back with the rider in the saddle.
Our goal? A comfortable horse and a rider who truly feels at home in their saddle.
Is the trial fitting free?
The trial fitting is free when purchasing a new saddle.
How long does a fitting session last?
A fitting session lasts about an hour and a half on average, sometimes up to two hours. It’s important to take the necessary time with the horses. The fitting should take place in a calm and relaxed environment, both for the horse and the rider
Will my saddle be semi-custom or 100% custom-made?
Your saddle will be 100% custom-made.During the fitting, you’ll see exactly how we work. More than thirty measurement points are taken on the horse and during the postural assessment. We are the only ones who work this way.No two Aulion saddles are identical. Each saddle is a numbered, one-of-a-kind model, crafted specifically for a unique horse-and-rider combination.
My horse’s body shape has changed can you adjust the saddle?
Yes, as saddle makers, our job is to create saddles that are perfectly fitted and to support the horse’s morphological development over time. In the case of significant and permanent conformational changes, we can modify the saddle tree or the panels.
What material are the panels made of?
The panels are made from wool felt and two types of foam with different densities. The denser foam is positioned closer to the saddle tree, while the softer foam is in contact with the horse’s back.These materials have been widely validated through more than 20 years of use and have been scientifically tested using an electronic pressure-mapping pad.
Do you use U-shaped or V-shaped saddle trees?
What matters most in a saddle tree is that it is made to the horse’s measurements. We take precise measurements of the shoulder width and wither width, as well as an exact tracing of the wither profile and its angle.This allows us to determine the appropriate type and size of saddle tree to order for your horse. The wider the tree’s gullet opening, the more it will resemble a U shape; the narrower the opening, the more it will resemble a V shape.
Where will my saddle be manufactured?
Your saddle will be manufactured in our workshop in Distré, in the greater Saumur area, France.
Is calfskin leather fragile?
Calfskin leather is a supple leather prized for the beauty of its fine grain. It is also a durable material, strong enough to be used in items subject to intensive, everyday use such as shoes and belts.When properly maintained, it develops a beautiful patina over time while retaining its suppleness and silky feel.
Is maintaining a saddle complicated?
Maintenance is simple. Calfskin leather does not tolerate excessive product use. Regular, light care is recommended — such as wiping the saddle with a damp cloth to remove dust.If the saddle is heavily soiled, cleaning with glycerin soap is advised. Simply rinse with clean water to remove any soap residue, allow it to dry away from direct heat, and then apply a small amount of Aulion Sellier balm to nourish the leather.
How long will it take to receive my saddle?
Our lead time is generally about two and a half months.Depending on the workshop’s workload and the season, this timeframe may occasionally be slightly extended. In any case, you will be informed of the exact delivery timeframe at the time of your order.
I am located in the Pyrenees. Do you travel to my area?
We travel throughout France for any serious custom dressage saddle project.
Do you ship to the United States?
We have been established in the United States since late 2022, primarily in Florida, and we also travel to other states.
I’ve received my saddle and there is an issue. What should I do?
Given the precision of our measurement process, adjustments are very rarely needed.You have one month to share any feedback with us. If an adjustment is necessary, we will take care of it as quickly as possible under warranty.
Is the saddle covered by a warranty?
The saddle is covered by a 3-year warranty against any manufacturing defects or flaws. The saddle trees are covered by a 10-year warranty from the manufacturer.Please note: the warranty does not apply to parts subject to normal wear and tear from use (such as the lower flaps or billet straps).
The panel leather is cracked. Is this covered under the warranty?
Cracking of the panel leather is generally caused by improper maintenance. Our care guidelines clearly state that this part of the saddle requires regular upkeep, as the panels are exposed to the horse’s perspiration.In this case, replacing the panel leather would not be covered under the warranty.
Do you take back my old saddle?
We take back Aulion Sellier saddles, subject to their year of manufacture and overall condition. We do not take back saddles from other brands.
Do you have any pre-owned saddles available?
We occasionally have a few pre-owned saddles available, which we readjust to the measurements of the horse and rider. In this case, the travel fee is charged.All saddles leaving our workshop — whether new or pre-owned — are fully custom-made.
Should I have a saddle fitter come out before scheduling an appointment with you?
We have been practicing saddle fitting since 1997 — long before the term even existed.By entrusting us with the creation of your saddle, you are working with a professional who has complete expertise in both saddle fitting and saddle making. This is not necessarily the case with a saddle fitter alone.
Is it true that the size of my future saddle should depend on the length of my horse’s back?
La taille du dos de votre cheval définit des limites. Par exemple, il n’est pas recommandeé de poser des panneaux au-delà de la 18èmecôte thoracique, car nous risquons de faire supporter une pression par les processus transverses des vetrèbres lombaires qui ne sont pas faits pour supporter une selle et son cavalier. En revanche, la taille du siège dépend de votre taille de pantalon et de vos habitudes de monte. Fabriquer une selle en 18 pour un cavalier qui devrait monter dans du 16,5 n’est pas idéal. Tous les spécialistes en bio-mécanique équine savent que le cavalier mal centré ou ayant des instabilités dans la selle va induire des mouvements parasites obligeant le cheval à développer une stratégie de locomotion pour compenser cette asymétrie de fonctionnement. (lire les travaux du Docteur. Russel Mac Kechnie – Guire, et du Professeur Hilary M. Clayton)
Are you present at equestrian events and competitions?
Of course! We are present at the most prestigious events in France and the United States. Follow us on Instagram to find out where we’ll be and come meet us in person.
