ABOUT US
Serving the Equestrian Community for 30 years.
Meet Us
KATE WILSON, SMS QSF
Kate has worked as a Saddler and Saddle Fitter for 30 years. She’s passionate about craftsmanship and hand-work when it comes to saddlery. She rides dressage with her handsome tri-colored gelding, Alak.
JIM WILSON
Jim joined workshop in 2003 after working in the carpentry/construction trade for 35 years. He can be found engaged in the fine art of saddle and tack repair in our Montague workshop. He is supervised on a daily basis by our King Charles Cavalier Spaniels, Molly and DeeDee.
About Us
Our Philosophy
Promoting a deeper connection between horse and rider through thoughtful selection, fitting, and care for your tack.
Your tack matters. The right equipment should help, not hinder, in every aspect of your journey together. We work across all disciplines, breeds, levels of skill, and budget to achieve the best fit possible to enhance the performance, health, and happiness of both horse and rider. We’re forever independent, so you can count on us to help you find the best match, regardless of brand. We continually evaluate the latest trends and technology in the equine consumer market to better serve our clients with up-to-date knowledge. Already have a saddle you love? Ask us how proper care, fitting, and maintenance can extend the life of your tack and make the most of your investment. When you’re ready to find a new home for your trusty saddle, we’ll help with that too.
Contact us today to start your tack fitting and repair journey!
Our Story
Serving the equestrian community for 30 years.
Just one day after graduating from Ithaca College in 1995, DBS founder and co-owner Kate Wilson answered an ad for a saddler’s apprentice in the Ithaca Times. After her apprenticeship with a Society of Master Saddlers Master Saddler, and several trips to the UK to study with some of the industry’s top saddlers, Kate founded Dutchess Bridle & Saddle, LLC in 1999. In 2006, Kate earned her certification as a Qualified Saddle Fitter (QSF) from The Society of Master Saddlers. She continues to advance her training and knowledge with some of the industry’s top saddlers and saddle manufacturers through regular trips to the UK, and has been an invited lecturer for the US-based Foundations of Saddle Fitting course sponsored by the Society of Master Saddlers UK.
Jim Wilson is an expert carpenter with over 35 years’ experience. He has trained as a saddler in the UK and worked as a saddler for the past 20 years. Today, clients all over the US look to Jim’s expertise and traditional craftsmanship to care for their equipment.
