Supporting British Equestrianism
The Saddlers' Company supports all British equestrians, from professionals and occasional riders to equine-assisted disability and learning support through horses. We promote the need for Registered Qualified Saddle Fitters, funding training grants through the British Equestrian Federation, and ensure that the value horses bring is experienced across all of society.
Supporting British Equestrians
Without horses and riders there would be no need for saddles and bridles, so a healthy saddlery industry demands a strong interest in equestrianism. The Company, through the British Equestrian Federation, provides training grants to most equestrian disciplines, helping coaches, instructors and riders understand the importance of well fitted tack to horse and rider welfare and performance.
Saddles, bridles and cash vouchers of varying value are awarded across point-to-points, show jumping, dressage, vaulting, endurance riding, horse trials, riding club events, schools and universities polo, and Pony Club competitions, with prizes aimed at younger, unsponsored competitors.
Training and Welfare
The Company subsidises training for young riders on courses run by the British Horse Society and the British Show Jumping Association, and supports the training of instructors and judges. Support for the British Horse Society extends to its Safety Committee, the Changing Lives Through Horses project, and initiatives providing riding opportunities for young people in inner city areas and for the disabled.
The Company funds equine research at the Royal Veterinary College and the Animal Health Trust, and supports equestrian sport in the Armed Services through an annual training grant and prizes, reflecting its long-standing connections with the Army's mounted units.
Equine Fitters Council and Directory
The Saddler's Company, together with the Loriners' Company, leads the Equine Fitters Council (EFC) and Equine Fitters Directory (EFD), an independent, not for profit body offering voluntary regulation for saddle, bit, bridle and harness fitting. The Directory was formally launched at Saddler's Hall in February 2025, with support from William Fox-Pitt MBE and Natasha Baker OBE.
The Company works with the trade, the Society of Master Saddlers and the British Equestrian Trade Association to spread awareness of well-made, good quality equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Saddler's Company support equestrian sport?+
It funds training grants through the British Equestrian Federation and awards saddles, bridles and cash vouchers across disciplines from show jumping to Pony Club competitions, prioritising younger, unsponsored riders.
What is the Equine Fitters Directory?+
The Equine Fitters Directory is an online searchable directory of qualified saddle, bit, bridle and harness fitters, led by the Saddler's Company and the Loriners' Company and launched at Saddler's Hall in February 2025.
Does the Company fund equine research?+
The Company funds equine research at the Royal Veterinary College and the Animal Health Trust.
