FAQs
General FAQs
What sets the TCS apart from other treeless saddles?
Excellent question.
- The TCS offers and incredibly comforable riding experience for both horse and rider,
- The TCS is the only treeless saddle that is completely flexible,
- The TCS is the only treeless saddle that will fit any horse, from Shetland to Shire,
- The TCS is very affordable and infinitely adaptable,
- The TCS undoubtedly offers the closest contact with the horse, as opposed to other treeless saddles which can be bulky and heavy.
But the TCS is just a roller with stirrups, right?
Wrong! The TCS is competely different to a roller in construction and function. It is a cleverly designed, high quality treeless saddle with many unique design features which ensure a comfortable ride for horse and rider.
Will the TCS fit my horse?
Yes! The TCS is cleverly designed to adapt to any horse, providing padding, placement and girthing is adapted to the horse. You can find more information here.
Will the TCS put pressure on my horse's spine?
The simple answer is no. The TCS has been pressure-tested and used safely and successfully by thousands of riders and horses. You can read about the science behind the TCS here.
I have a round-barrelled pony, will the TCS slip?
If padded correctly, your TCS saddle should not slip. Customers who experience slip find using grubby cotton saddle pads directly against the horse and neoprene topped half pads useful. Using a breastplate or a breastcollar can also reduce slip.
I compete regularly, can I use a TCS to enter competitions?
It depends. Some bodies and levels accept the TCS but it is best to check the rules and regulations of the competitions you wish to enter before purchasing.
What padding and girth should I use for the TCS?
Padding and girthing are very horse-specific. Sometimes, the rider will also have an influence on padding and girthing choices. For more information on padding and girthing, please look here. If you are usure about what padding to use, please contact us for help.
You can now get 50% off a space on Saoirse Equine's populare 'Pad Your Own TCS' online course with any saddle purchase.
I've bought a TCS but I'm nervous ahead of my first ride, will it feel strange?
Possibly, but strange isn't bad, right? It will certainly feel different, and you may need a few rides to get accustomed to the TCS. We have put together some information about how your first rides will likely feel.
Product FAQs
What is the difference between the Synthetic, Classic and Premium TCS?
The saddles in our three saddle ranges have the same size and shape, the different ranges refer to the types of leather. The Synthetic saddle is easy to care for, the Classic saddle is smart yet affordable and the Premium saddle is textured and sophisticated. You can see all our leathers close up in the Leather Gallery.
What is the difference between the Long and Short billet saddles?
The TCS saddle comes in two billet lengths: Long and Short. Short girth users need the Long billet saddle, standard girth users need the Short billet saddle. You can find more information on billet length here.
What length stirrup leathers do I need?
The stirrup bar on the TCS is set lower than on a traditional saddle, it is recommened to choose a shorter stirrup leather length than usual. You can find information about this here.
I've bought TCS Webbers but I don't know how to use them. Can you help?
You can find a guide on how to use the TCS Webbers here.
Shipping FAQs
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We ship our products all over the world. What's more, we will pay import duties, taxes and tariffs our worldwide customers. Please read our Shipping Policy for more information.
How much will shipping cost?
To find out how much shipping will cost you, you can either, refer to our Shipping Policy or add the desired products to your cart, proceed to check out and enter your address, at which point the shipping fees will be displayed.
Will I incur extra fees when I recieve my parcel?
No! UK parcels do not incur customs fees and in the case of worldwide parcels, Total Contact Saddles will cover your fees.
Returns FAQs
I've tried my saddle/seat but I'm not convinced it's for me. Can I return them?
Yes! Total Contact Saddles now offer a 14-Day Trial Period for all our saddles adnd seats. Please get in touch with us at melanie@total-contact.co.uk in order to initiate your return. For more information, read our Refund Policy
Do I have to cover return shipping?
Yes, return shipping is the responsibility of the customer. For more information, please read our Refund Policy
Will I get a full refund when I return an item?
In most cases, you will recieve a full refund for your items (less shipping costs) however if your items are returned excessively worn or damaged, monies will be deducted from your refund amount. Please read our Refund Policy for more information.

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