Polo Pony Saddle, Stirrups, Girth, Pads

Polo Pony Saddle

Polo Pony Saddle shown without • Leathers • Stirrups • Girth • Pads

Stirrups

After you have checked and tightened the girth, you need to adjust the stirrups before mounting the polo pony.

When leading a polo pony in and out of the barn or trailer, the stirrups are stored in the "run up" position:
each stirrup is pushed up the side of the stirrup leather,
the excess is then pulled through the stirrup and hangs down.

Girth

The polo saddle needs to be securely fitted to the polo pony. If the girth becomes loose while you are playing the saddle will slide sideways and you can fall off. The girth is tight when you can fit your hand between the girth and the pony's belly.

Check the girth and straps for any damage to the leather or buckles. You need both hands to pull the girth tight and buckle it. With the reins over the pony's head, slip the arm nearest his head through the reins up to your elbow and maintain a safe hold on the pony.

Be careful, some polo ponies will attempt to head butt or nip you as you tighten their girth. Some polo ponies develop the trick of expanding their chests when you tighten the girth. After you mount, walk forward, this will cause the pony to relax his chest, then recheck the girth to ensure that it is secure.

Pads

A saddle pad and saddle must be positioned properly at the polo pony's center of gravity. A good saddle pad helps blood circulate evenly, lets perspiration evaporate, and distributes weight evenly.

Breastplate

A breastplate is used to keep the saddle from sliding back.