Hartpury University’s Dr Kathryn Nankervis attended the star-studded launch of the Equine Fitters Directory on 3 February, an initiative developed by The Equine Fitters Council with the help of Hartpury research.
Dr Nankervis was joined at London’s Saddlers’ Hall by Olympian William Fox-Pitt, Paralympian Natasha Baker, Chief Executive of World Horse Welfare Roly Owers, HR Saddlery Master Saddler and Fitter Helen Reader, to officially introduce the directory to riders and horse owners.
The Equine Fitters Directory allows users to search for and compare professional saddle, bit, bridle, and harness fitters. Horse owners and riders can be sure that every listed Equine Fitter is validated and meets the listing criteria set by the Council: they must hold insurance, pursue continued professional development, and agree to abide by the EFC Code of Conduct. The independent searchable directory is a critical database for those who have horses and are seeking trustworthy advice and services.
Dr Nankervis said: “At Hartpury, we’re committed to research that contributes to improving standards in saddlery fit for horse and rider. Our work involving various equestrian professionals shows that effective multidisciplinary teams around the horse and rider are key to this improvement. The launch of the Equine Fitters Directory is therefore a positive step to achieving the best possible fit for all our horses.”
William Fox Pitt, one of the most successful three-day event riders of all time added: “I think the Equine Fitters Directory is such an incredible idea. Whether you’re a professional rider or occasionally have a riding lesson, making sure our saddles, bridles and bits fit is so important for all our horses. The Directory will ensure that we all know our fitter is qualified and externally assured.”
The Equine Fitters Council is an independent and not-for-profit company established by the Worshipful Company of Master Saddlers and the Worshipful Company of Loriners.
Hartpury University Research
Hartpury University research cited during the launch included:
Nankervis, K., MacKechnie-Guire, R., Maddock, C. and Pyatt, A., 2024. Experiences of Interdisciplinary Working from the Perspective of the Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitters. Animals, 14(4), p.559.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/14/4/559#
MacKechnie-Guire, R., Williams, J.M., Fisher, D. and Nankervis, K., 2024. The Role of Equestrian Professionals in Saddle Fit for Horses and Riders in the United Kingdom. Animals, 14(17), p.2495.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/14/17/2495#
Nankervis, K., Williams, J.M., Fisher, D. and MacKechnie-Guire, R., 2024. The Role of the Equestrian Professional in Bridle and Bit Fit in the United Kingdom. Animals, 14(22), p.3188.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/14/22/3188#
Hartpury University research has previously been recognised as ‘world-leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’ by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 process.
