About Kate Hardt, Master Saddler
Kate started as an apprentice saddler in 1987 when she was trained in saddlery, bridlework, harness and military police horse saddlery. Following this, she worked as in-house saddler at another saddlery.
Since then, Kate has become a Master Saddler (Society of Master Saddlers), qualified as a City & Guilds Level 3 Saddle Maker, City & Guilds level 3 Bridle Maker, is working towards her City & Guilds qualifications in harness making, and has attended numerous courses in side-saddle building and restoration.
In 2021, Kate won second prize for her work in her first attempt at the annual national saddlery competition of the Society of Master Saddlers, held at Saddlers Hall in London.
In 2023, she won both a second in her first entry in the saddle making competition and a third for bridlework.
In 2024, Kate came second in the side-saddle making class and third in the astride saddle class.
In 2025, Kate won the first prize in the side-saddle making class.
Kate is completely independent and prides herself on being able to ‘think outside the box’. She always puts the horse first, hence her company motto ‘Tueri Et Protegere Equos’ (To serve and protect horses), which can be found in the iconic company logo.
Along with side-saddle restorations and repairs to saddles, bridles and harness, Kate also goes beyond the equestrian sphere with restoration of antique luggage, customised belts and other commissions.









