Welcome to TEC
Independent Saddle Fitting. Horse First Care
Helping horses move freely and riders find their balance.
At Tamlaght Equestrian Care, we believe that good saddle fitting starts with understanding the individual horse and rider. Our approach is centred on comfort, fit, movement and performance, providing professional advice and practical solutions tailored to each partnership.
Led by Lynette McKeown, a Level 4 IASF-A qualified saddle fitter and SMS (QSF) accredited saddle fitter with the Society of Master Saddlers, we offer a professional, brand-independent saddle fitting service throughout Northern Ireland.
Our priority is finding the most appropriate solution for your horse and rider, with honest advice and recommendations based on individual needs rather than a particular brand.
Saddle Fitting Built Around Your Horse
Every horse is different, and saddle fitting should reflect that. Changes in condition, fitness, workload, age and muscle development can all influence how a saddle fits over time.
Our assessments consider the horse, saddle and rider, looking at the overall fit, balance and suitability of the saddle for its intended use. Where appropriate, we also consider the horse’s way of going to help identify potential fitting concerns.
Whether you need a routine saddle check, have concerns about your horse’s comfort, or want advice following a change in your horse or workload, we aim to provide clear guidance and practical recommendations.
New And Second Hand Saddles
If your current saddle is no longer suitable, we can help you explore new and second-hand saddle options.
The aim is to find an appropriate solution based on your horse’s conformation, your riding requirements and your budget. We will discuss the available choices and help you understand the considerations involved before making a decision.
Work with what you've got
A new saddle is not always the answer.
Where possible, we assess your existing saddle and explore whether adjustments or alterations may help achieve a more suitable fit. If your current saddle is no longer appropriate, we will explain why and discuss the options available. Our aim is to help you make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary expense and prioritise your horse’s comfort and welfare.
Qualified Saddle Fitter IASF & SMS
Lynette McKeown is a qualified Level 4 Saddle Fitter (IASF-A) and SMS (QSF) accrediated saddle fitter - Society of Master Saddlers.
Her approach combines practical horsemanship knowledge with a commitment to thoughtful, individual saddle fitting. She understands that every horse and rider partnership is different and aims to provide clear, honest advice to help each partnership work as comfortably and effectively as possible.
Her interest in equine comfort and welfare led her to undertake equine bodywork training in her early 20s. This has provided a strong basis to her approach to saddle fit.
Independent Advice
As a brand-independent saddle fitter, Lynette’s recommendations are guided by the needs of the horse and rider, rather than a commitment to one manufacturer.
This allows us to consider a range of saddle designs and brands, helping you explore the options that may be suitable for your individual circumstances.
We believe that independent advice, professional assessment and an understanding of the horse are essential when making decisions about saddle fit.
When Should You Book A Saddle Assessment
Regular saddle checks are important because horses change over time. You may wish to arrange an assessment if:
• Your horse has gained or lost weight or muscle.
• Your horse has changed shape following a change in workload or fitness.
• Your saddle moves, slips or appears unbalanced.
• You have concerns about your horse’s comfort or behaviour when saddled.
• You are experiencing changes in your own balance or position.
• You are considering buying a new or second-hand saddle.
• Your saddle has not been checked in the last 6 months.
If you have concerns about your horse’s comfort, remember that saddle fit is only one possible factor. Other issues may require input from your veterinary surgeon or another suitably qualified professional.
ASF Member
What we do
-
AboutTamlaght Equestrian Care was born through a University project for our eldest daughters discertation. She created a business plan for an Equestrian centre based at our home address. Through her studies we realised that there was true demand for equestrian services within our area, not necessarily as a traditional Equestrian… -
Arena HireHere at TEC we have created an arena ideal for any equine discipline, with a course of show jumps, cavaletti and dressage markers. The arena can be booked for an hour at a cost of £25 to include up to 4 horses. To the side of the arena we have…Read more... -
Saddle FittingHow often have you found you and your horse progressing well, improving quickly and all of a sudden an unexpected behaviour appears. Rearing, bucking, refusal to work forward or accept a contact? This can be down to many things; frustration, inability, pain.... but often your horses progression has enabled your…Read more...