New Saddle Care

Saddle Care: Ensuring Comfort, Performance, and Longevity

At NSC we want to help you get the most out of your new saddle, ensuring it continues to provide the best fit for both you and your horse. Just like any great investment, your saddle needs a little care and attention to stay in top condition. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your saddle performing at its best.

Adjusting to Your New Saddle

It’s important to remember that a new saddle can take time to break in, just like a new pair of boots. Over time the leather will soften, and the wool-flocked panel will mould to your horse’s shape. With use, your saddle will become more and more comfortable for both you and your horse.

The First Few Rides:

In the first few weeks of use, around 20 hours of riding, your saddle may feel a bit different. This is normal! You might notice everything feels a bit different, your horse moves differently, or even that you are using your muscles differently (and feeling a little sore!) especially if your previous saddle didn’t fit well. This will soon change, and you and your horse will both feel much more comfortable.

Start Slow and Steady:

We recommend shorter rides, 15 to 30 minutes, to start, and preferably in a training environment rather than intense situations like competitions. This will help you and your horse adjust comfortably to the new saddle.


Caring for Your Leather

Your NSC saddle is made from high-quality leather that will last a lifetime with the right care. Proper maintenance is key to keeping it looking and performing its best.
You can view our full Leathercare Guide here.

Leather Dressing:

Once you have completed your saddle’s trial period, apply a coat of quality leather dressing, we recommend the NSC leathercare range. This will nourish and protect the leather, helping it stay in top shape, and resist the elements. Apply one or two thin coats initially, then reapply every few weeks or when the leather starts to look dry.

Nubuck Seat Care:

If your saddle has a nubuck seat, a quick brush with a suede brush is all you need to keep it clean and looking great. If you prefer, you can apply a little leather dressing to give the nubuck a smoother appearance.

Storing Your Saddle:

For best results, store your saddle on a rack that supports the gullet channel rather than the panels, to avoid any indentations. Keep your saddle out of direct sunlight, extreme heat, or damp areas to protect the leather.

Maintaining the Fit for Ongoing Comfort

As your horse changes shape with age, work level, or condition, it’s important to regularly check your saddle’s fit to ensure ongoing comfort.

First Post-Break-In Check (Within 4 Months):

After the first few months of use, we recommend having your saddle checked by an experienced and qualified professional saddle fitter. This is a critical step in ensuring the saddle is still perfectly balanced and fitted to your horse’s needs.

Ongoing Servicing:

To keep your saddle in great shape, we recommend checking it every six months, or at least once a year. Horses change over time, and regular checks will help maintain the optimum fit.

Full Re-flock When Needed:

If your saddle has been spot re-flocked several times or used on different horses, a full re-flock may be needed to ensure it remains supportive and comfortable for your horse. We recommend this is done around every three years for optimum comfort and fit.

Why Regular Saddle Care Matters

Maintaining your saddle is the best way to protect your investment and to ensure your horse’s comfort. By following these simple steps, you’ll extend the life of your saddle, keeping it in top condition for many years.

If you need help with saddle care, or are looking for recommendations of an experienced and qualified professional saddle fitter, we’re here to help. Get in touch for recommendations of fitters who have received extensive training and experience with NSC saddles.

We’re here to help ensure that your saddle continues to deliver the best performance and comfort for both you and your horse.