The pliance saddle system measures the pressure distribution between the saddle and the horse with the help of a thin elastic mat. It is possible to assess quantitatively the commands of the rider and the subsequent reaction of the horse. The technique of the rider can be objectively assessed and corrected. Color data can be immediately viewed online with the easy-to-use but powerful software and bluetooth wireless technology.

The dynamic pressure distribution can also be directly compared to the horse and rider (see animated image above or avi files in multimedia section for examples).

Gait asymmetry, possibly associated with physiological back problems or bad saddle fit, can be assessed quantitatively. In addition, harmful pressure points, which arise from bad saddle fit, can be recognized and corrected. During dynamic movement substantially higher loads occur on the back and shoulders of the horse than during standing and is therefore important to use dynamic assessments.

With the help of the pliance system and its powerful software, one cannot only analyze the quality of the saddle but also obtain a better understanding of the interaction between the rider, saddle and horse.

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The pliance sensor mat contains 224 sensors which are scanned with a high scanning speed of 10,000 sensors per second. This means that dynamic measurements can be recorded from the walk to the gallop.

The pliance system is accurate and reliable. The sensor mat is calibrated using homogeneous air pressure and a simple, computer aided procedure which calculates the calibration curves for each individual sensor. The calibration does not change with time.

The pliance software operates in a Windows environment and displays the online or offline dynamic pressure distribution as a 2D or 3D color picture. The pictures can also be printed in the original size to allow the user to find the locations of high pressure and relate them exactly to the horse's anatomical landmarks or to the saddle. All data are fully compatible with novel analysis software, and can be exported to ASCII format.

With the help of the pliance system and its powerful software one can not only analyze the quality of the saddle but also obtain a better understanding of the interaction between the rider, saddle and horse.