Description
Why Choose the Mattes Custom Dressage Half Pad?
The Mattes Custom Dressage Half Pad is designed for riders who want more than just additional cushioning. It is built to enhance saddle balance, distribute pressure evenly across the horse’s back, and adapt to changes in shape over time.
Each pad is made to order using premium materials selected for durability, breathability and long-term performance. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, every pad is crafted specifically for your chosen size and configuration.
Premium Materials & Construction
Mattes uses high-quality quilted fabrics including cotton, cotton sheen (polyester blend) and velvet. The quilting pattern is enhanced with subtle glossy fibres for a refined finish while maintaining durability in everyday use.
The underside is a POLY-FLEX® core designed for friction free, shape retention and even pressure distribution, with the option of genuine Mattes lambskin, hand-selected and tanned in their own tannery.
The structure of the pad includes:
SPINEFREE® design to relieve pressure along the withers and spine
POLY-FLEX® core for shape retention and even pressure distribution
Polyester wadding for consistent cushioning
A completely foam-, neoprene- and gel-free construction
Fully air-permeable design to support temperature regulation
This combination provides shock absorption without bulk, making it suitable for both schooling and competition use.
Customisation Options
One of the defining features of the Mattes dressage half pad range is its extensive customisation.
You can select from:
- Over 40 fabric colours
- Multiple binding and trim options
- 30+ sheepskin colour choices
- Five different sheepskin configurations (underside only, front trim, rear trim, full trim options)
This allows riders to coordinate with team colours, competition outfits, or simply create a pad that reflects personal style, without compromising performance.
Optional CORRECTION® System
The Mattes CORRECTION® system allows fine adjustment of saddle balance without modifying the saddle itself.
Available with either 2 or 4 pockets, each pocket includes three 5mm felt inserts (POLY-FLEX®). Shims can be added or removed to adjust balance by up to 30mm.
This is particularly useful for: Young horses developing muscle, horses returning to work, seasonal conditioning changes, between saddle fittings. The system allows gradual adjustment while maintaining stability and comfort.
SADDLE-FIX® Option
The optional SADDLE-FIX® system helps keep the pad securely in place under the saddle, reducing movement during work and competition.
Sizing & Fit
Back Length: Small – 47cm, Medium – 54cm, Large – 58cm, XLarge – 62cm
Depth (All Purpose): Small – 20cm, Medium – 21.5cm, Large – 21.5cm, XLarge – 23.5cm
If you are unsure about sizing or correction options, we are happy to advise before you place your order.
Victoria B –
Great customer service – always letting me know where we wherein the production queue – delivered very quickly – will definitely use again!
Lauren A –
I absolutely love my Mattes half pad- it’s customized exactly how I wanted, and it actually ended up being less expensive than a plain white one would have been if I had bought it at one of the US tack stores. I had a little trouble with the website letting me complete payment for my order and was about to give up, but Jonathon reached out to me and helped me finalize my order. It arrived very quickly, with no additional surprise charges or tariffs. I would definitely order again! I have another Mattes half pad that I ordered years ago from a different company and it took a very long time to arrive, so this experience was much faster and very easy. Thanks so much!
“Thank you for your kind feedback it was a pleasure helping you and am glad you are happy with the half pad” Pink Equine Team
Gabrielle P –
Beautiful custom pad. Easy to build the design using the online tool.
Mindy S –
Love this half pad! I rely on Mattes products they provide outstanding support & comfort for my horse. Thanks Pink Equine for offering this product!
Kathryn D –
A beautiful piece of kit for the horses wardrobe!! Jonathan was extremely helpful the whole way through the process and kept me very well informed. Easy to deal with and great customer service – would highly recommend them to any one! Germany.
Young C –
Thanks the half pad is amazing. Fits so well under my saddle.
Middlesex, UK.
Emma G –
Your staff are just lovely and so helpful. Your advice was appreciated and the half pad is absolutely perfect thanks again. Somerset, UK.
Lucy K –
Great Service and lovely half pad. Even ordering from the States was easy and the half pad was received well within the six weeks. Kent, UK.
Carolyn B –
Dear Pink Equine, I love my Mattes Half pad. It is so well made and fits perfectly on my horse. It is so nice to be able to talk to such knowledgeable staff by telephone when so many companies shy away from this now. Florida, USA.
Andrew B –
Denise thanks for your advice the half pad is absolutely perfect! London, UK.
Kanako Y –
Was worried ordering from Japan, but have to say the whole process was easy and delivery was quick thank you so much.
Tokyo, Japan.
Tiffany P –
Love my pink half pad thanks, will definately order again. East Sussex, UK.