About
EQ Saddle Science is a science-driven equestrian saddle company that has been delighting riders since 1999. Their product line spans dressage and jumping saddles, all engineered around biomechanical research conducted by world-renowned veterinarian Dr. Hilary Clayton—the only independent researcher to formally endorse EQ saddles. The core technology includes EQFlex™ foam panels that flex and conform to the horse's back, distributing weight more evenly than traditional flocking, and Sorbothane shock absorbers—a polyurethane material also used in the Space Shuttle—that protect the horse's back from impact forces. Every saddle features a gullet channel that adjusts both front and back, and with dozens of tree combinations, each unit is custom-assembled to match the specific angles of an individual horse's back. EQ offers off-the-rack and fully custom configurations, as well as used saddle inventory. Their store also carries Mattes custom pads, Toklat saddle pads, girths, stirrups, leathers, flaps, thigh blocks, and more. A standout offering is their free two-week test-ride program, which has earned a 99.5% recommendation rate even among riders who did not purchase. Over 96% of buyers report being thrilled with their saddle a full year after purchase. EQ Saddle Science also provides fitting services, a rehabilitation rental program, educational blog content, and a classifieds section—making it a comprehensive resource for serious equestrians seeking evidence-based tack solutions.
Key Features
- EQFlex™ Foam Panels: Flexible foam panels that conform to the horse's back and distribute weight more evenly than traditional flocking, reducing pressure points.
- Sorbothane Shock Absorbers: The only saddle brand to incorporate Sorbothane—a high-damping polyurethane used in the Space Shuttle—to absorb impact and protect the horse's back.
- Fully Adjustable Gullet Channel: Adjusts in both the front and back, enabling a precise custom fit that accommodates changes in a horse's musculature over time.
- Free Two-Week Test Ride Program: Prospective buyers can test any EQ saddle on their own horse for two weeks at no charge before committing to a purchase.
- Custom Assembly with Dozens of Tree Combinations: Each saddle is custom-assembled in the workshop using tree angles matched to the individual horse's back measurements.
Use Cases
- Dressage riders seeking improved seat stability, closer contact, and increased shoulder freedom for their horses.
- Show jumpers looking for a saddle that absorbs impact and reduces back strain during competition and training.
- Horse owners rehabilitating horses with back issues who need a saddle that minimizes pressure and accommodates changing musculature.
- Equestrians wanting to try a science-backed saddle risk-free before investing, using the two-week test-ride program.
- Riders with horses that have difficult-to-fit backs who need a fully custom-assembled saddle matched to their horse's unique conformation.
Pros
- Independently Endorsed by Top Researcher: Dr. Hilary Clayton, with nearly 400 published scientific papers on equine biomechanics, is the only researcher to formally endorse EQ saddles, lending strong credibility.
- Risk-Free Trial: A free two-week test ride lets riders evaluate the saddle on their own horse before purchase, resulting in a 99.5% recommendation rate.
- Highly Customizable Fit: Dozens of tree combinations and adjustable panels mean the saddle can be precisely fitted to a wide variety of horse and rider body types.
- Exceptional Long-Term Satisfaction: Over 96% of customers report being thrilled with their purchase a full year later, indicating durable comfort and performance.
Cons
- Premium Price Point: Custom-assembled, science-backed saddles represent a significant investment compared to conventional off-the-rack tack.
- Niche Product Category: Designed exclusively for equestrians; not applicable outside the horse-riding community.
- Limited Online Self-Service Fitting: Achieving the best fit may require direct consultation with EQ's fitting specialists rather than a fully self-guided online purchase process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the free two-week test ride work?
EQ Saddle Science ships a saddle to you so you can try it on your own horse for two weeks at no charge. You return it if it's not right, or proceed with a purchase if you love it.
What makes EQ saddles different from conventional saddles?
EQ saddles feature EQFlex™ foam panels that flex to the horse's back, a gullet that adjusts front and back, and Sorbothane shock absorbers—none of which are found in traditional saddle designs. The combination dramatically increases shoulder freedom and reduces back pressure.
Are EQ saddles suitable for both dressage and jumping?
Yes. EQ Saddle Science offers separate lines for dressage and jumping disciplines, both built on the same science-based technology platform.
Who is Dr. Hilary Clayton and why does her endorsement matter?
Dr. Hilary Clayton is a world-renowned equine veterinarian and researcher with nearly 400 published scientific papers on locomotor biomechanics, conditioning, rehabilitation, and rider-tack-horse interaction. Her independent research validates EQ's saddle design claims.
Can I get a saddle if my horse's back shape is unusual?
Yes. With dozens of tree combinations and adjustable panels, EQ custom-assembles each saddle to match the specific angles of your horse's back, making almost any fit achievable.
