Choosing the right saddle is the single most important investment you can make in your horse’s long-term soundness and athletic potential. DK Saddlery has redefined the standards of equine performance by moving away from "traditional" fits which are the wood and plastic treed saddles, these are the majority in the industry today. DK has embraced a design backed by veterinary research and biomechanical precision.

Here is why the unique architecture of a DK adjustable English saddle is a game-changer for your horse.

The Engineering of Freedom

Most traditional english saddles restrict the horse's ability to move by pinning the scapula (shoulder blade) or placing pressure on delicate spinal ligaments. DK Saddlery solves this through two critical, non-negotiable design features:

1. The 5-6—Inch Ultra-Wide Gullet

A standard English saddle often has a narrow channel that pinches the horse’s spine and the surrounding multifidus muscles. By utilizing an 5-6 inch gullet, DK saddles ensure:

• Total Spinal Clearance: No interference with the dorsal ligaments, allowing the horse to lift its back and engage its core.
• Lateral Flexion: The wide channel allows the horse to bend through its ribs without the tree making contact with the spinal processes.
• Maximum Muscle Development: Without the constant "thumping" or pressure of narrow panels, the top line muscles have the physical space to grow and develop.

2. The 9-Inch Long Tree Points

The length and angle of the tree points are the "steering" mechanism of the saddle's fit. DK’s 9-inch long tree points are engineered to:

• Free the Shoulder Rotation: By extending the tree points, the weight of the rider is distributed behind the shoulder blade rather than on top of it. This allows the scapula to rotate upward and backward with zero inhibition. It is this backward rotation that allows the horse the freedom.
• Ultimate Range of Motion: When the shoulder is free, the horse can achieve a fuller stride, greater "reach" in the front end, and a more expressive gait.
• Correct Weight Distribution: These points work in tandem with the adjustable tree to ensure the saddle sits "behind" the engine of the shoulder, eliminating the common issue of saddles "walking" forward onto the neck.

3. The Panels

The DK saddle panels offer extreme comfort and stability

• Panels are air flocked: Air has been proven to be the best as it does not compress as wool or foam will.
• Massages Muscles: As the air panels move, they massage the underlying muscles, promoting increased blood flow. This enhanced circulation delivers oxygen, which is essential for muscle growth and recovery.
• Large Panels: It is important that panels have a large weight bearing surface. The DK panels conform to the horse specific back and muscle shape.This equates to a larger weight bearing surface which equates to stability.

4. The Twist

DK Saddles specific design of the tree equates to one of the narrowest twist available. This is the feel in the inner upper thigh creating the ultimate in close contact.

Why DK Saddlery?

DK saddles are not just pieces of equipment; they are therapeutic tools designed to help horses reach their maximum potential.

• 100% Adjustable: Featuring an innovatively designed gullet plate and a flexible tree, these saddles can be adjusted to fit any horse as well as when they change shape through feed, training or age.
• Available for All Disciplines: Whether you are in Dressage, Hunter/Jumper, Eventing, or Endurance, there is a DK model designed for your specific seat and your horse's needs.
• A Global Standard: Trusted by professionals and amateurs alike, DK Saddlery is currently available in 36 countries worldwide, making it the international leader in adjustable saddle technology.
• “A properly fitted saddle doesn't just prevent pain – it invites the horse to move with a level of power and freedom you have never felt before.”
• Horses don’t have a choice – a properly fitted saddle is the only humane option to choose.