What is a saddle pad?

Historically a saddle pad was literally a piece of cloth material (hence the name saddle cloth) that was placed on the horse’s back when it was being ridden. This was before the invention of saddles and it is not really known whether the saddle cloth was designed to soak up horse sweat, or purely as decoration. Over time saddle cloths were filled with additional padding, more than likely due to the invention of the saddle, to provide a protective barrier between horse and saddle. Traditional saddle pads were square and designed to protect the horse’s back and the saddle, as well as soak up the sweat, and prevent the saddle rubbing. Today, saddle pads or saddlecloths are manufactured in a wide variety of designs and shapes, depending on the discipline and type of saddle. For example, dressage riders will use a dressage-shaped pad and western riders use a western saddle pad or cinch as they are known. Both modern and established materials are still used in the construction process, from traditional cotton and sheepskin, or lambskin, to synthetic fibers such as polyester or poly-cotton blends, memory foam, and gel-like substances. There are lots of very cheap saddle pads for sale, but a cheaper pad can be a false economy because of the inferior materials used in the construction process. We believe a good saddle pad should be permeable, absorb sweat, prevent rubbing, provide a good foundation for the saddle, assist the horse and rider balance, be easy to clean and maintain, and finally look stylish.

Which saddle pad fits my horse?

Saddle pads can be selected according to their size, shape, and materials used. Saddle Pad sizes normally range from Pony and Cob to Full, and Extra Full, although small ponies and Shetlands can also be catered for. Sizes are calculated by the length and depth of the saddle pad. These can differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, so it’s important to check your measurements. Saddle pad shapes vary according to the type of saddle you are using and the type of discipline you are riding. For example, someone who is a leisure rider and likes to do a bit of jumping would choose a General Purpose pad. Dressage riders would choose a dressage saddle pad, as they are made deeper to account for the saddle flaps. Western-style saddle pads are longer and thinner to accommodate western saddle styles. Baroque breed horse owners use a saddle pad that is more pointed in style. Saddle pads are available as squares, numnahs, or half pads. There are also special saddle pads for endurance riders and those with treeless saddles. The price of synthetic materials is much lower than natural ones and synthetic saddle pads are relatively inexpensive. However, the cushioning effect is not as good, doesn’t last as long, and doesn’t absorb sweat, as well as natural materials.

How are saddle pads maintained properly?

Saddle pads should be brushed and washed on a regular basis. The underside of the saddle pad should be brushed with a hard brush or sweat scraper, to remove all the old horse hair. Saddle pads are designed to soak up horse sweat and this will need to be washed out of the pad. The frequency of washes will depend on how much the saddle pad is used. You should always read the manufacturer’s label or enclosed product care instructions before proceeding. Mattes saddle pads can be machine washed or hand washed at below 30 °C. Always use a liquid detergent and never a powder one or a fabric softener. If your pad has sheepskin, the wool should be brushed to remove any horsehair, dried sweat, or dirt. It can also be washed. A special cleaning fluid called MELP is included with all Mattes saddle pads. MELP has re-greasing properties, helping to restore the elasticity of wool, leather, and textile materials used in their products. Once the pad is clean, allow it to dry naturally (not in direct sunlight). It should be thoroughly dry before use and if the material is a little stiff, it can be kneaded to soften it again. Saddle pads should be stored on top of the saddle wool side up. It is important that you care for your saddle pad, as you would your saddle and leather work. Caring for your saddle pad will ensure that it remains in a good condition for longer and continue to fulfill the role of providing cushioning between the horse’s back and the saddle.

How is the saddle pad supposed to fit?

First and foremost the saddle pad should fit the type of saddle and so you need to know the type of saddle before purchasing a saddle pad. All-purpose, jumping and dressage saddles are designed and shaped to assist the particular discipline. The length, depth, and shape of saddles differ and you will need to find a corresponding saddle pad. Saddle pads should be 5 – 7 cm longer (at the front and back) than your saddle. If your saddle pad is too short, it may cause the saddle to slip, cause pressure points, or even rub against the horse. If the saddle pad is too long it can bunch up and cause movement problems. A well-fitting saddle pad should be anatomically correct, the perimeter should be larger than the footprint of the saddle. The pad should be able to mould itself to the shape of the horse’s back, whilst retaining that shape under continuous pressure. The materials should be of good quality and have the highest levels of absorbability to prevent rubbing. A good saddle pad will provide a frictionless cushion between the horse and the saddle.

What is the difference between a saddle pad and a numnah?

Saddle pads and numnahs both serve the same purpose and are made from the same materials. The difference between the two is that a saddle pad is a square or rectangular shape, whereas the numnah is shaped to follow the contours of the saddle. The decision to opt for a saddle pad or a numnah is really down to personal choice, although it has been argued that with less material visible, a numnah may be a better option during warmer weather. A numnah can be used in every English riding discipline, except dressage, where a square saddle pad is required

What does GP stand for in saddle pads?

The GP in saddle pads stands for General Purpose (also known as All Purpose) and as the name suggests were specifically designed to fit under a general purpose saddle, for leisure riders who wanted to do a bit of every discipline, schooling, hacking, dressage, or jumping, but who didn’t own a specific saddle for each discipline. General Purpose saddles and saddle pads are the most commonly used amongst horse owners.

What is the best thickness for a saddle pad?

The best thickness for a saddle pad depends on the type of saddle. English saddles contain flock material (padding) that is designed to distribute the weight of the saddle and rider evenly, reducing the need for a very thick saddle pad. Western Saddles have no padding, and therefore a thicker saddle pad or saddle blanket is required. Top-quality western saddle pads include a natural sheepskin layer. Depending on the saddle pad, many western riders look for a pad that is between ¾ and 1 inch thick. English saddle pads range from 4mm – 10mm (more if the pad is lined with sheepskin).

Can your saddle pad be too thick?

Research has proved that the thickness of a saddle pad can influence the pressure on a horse’s back and that the thicker the saddle pad, the lower the pressure. However, a saddle pad that is too fat can cause the saddle to sit too firmly over the trapezius muscle (this is the muscle that sits behind the shoulder blade) inducing soreness. It can also be responsible for a decline in blood supply to the muscles and if not rectified may end up encouraging muscle wastage and a loss of performance.

How often should you replace a saddle pad?

Ask any horse-obsessed person and they will argue that you can never own enough saddle pads! Saddle pads and numnahs should be replaced if they are ripped, worn out, or not fit for the purpose they were intended. There is no hard and fast rule and it will very much depend on how often you ride

Is felt or wool saddle pad better?

Felt can be 100% synthetic and made from nylon, polyester, or rayon, it can be a blended felt, containing a mixture of polyester, and natural wool, or it can be made from 100% natural wool. Out of the three types of felt, the 100% wool version is softer, more pliable, and better at wicking away sweat and dissipating heat. There are only two natural materials that will truly cool a horse they are cotton and wool. The cooling takes effect when the cotton or wool soaks away the sweat. Out of these two materials, wool is the winner, because it can absorb up to eight times its own weight in moisture before it feels at all wet and the resilient nature of the fibre is perfect for pressure distribution. It is important to note that chemicals in a horse’s sweat can break down natural fleece, causing it to become unstable, so it is important that you ensure your wool saddle pad is properly cared for.

How do I choose a saddle pad?

1. What type of saddle do you ride in? Dressage, Jumping, Western, Endurance, Treeless, or General Purpose. Your choice of saddle pad should correspond with the type of saddle. 2. Decide if you want a square-shaped saddle pad or a numnah. 3. Measure an existing pad from front to back along the spine. If you don’t have an existing saddle pad, measure the length underneath the saddle from front to back and add 5 – 7cm to each end. 4. Check your measurement against manufacturer’s measurement tables to find the closest fit. 5. Decide if you want a sheepskin trim, front only, front and rear, or front, rear, and underside. 6. Finally choose your favourite colour and trim.

How long do saddle pads last?

A good quality saddle pad should last you years, provided that it is well cared for and regularly cleaned. There are only four reasons you need to purchase a new saddle pad. 1. Your old saddle pad is torn or falling apart 2. Your old saddle pad does not perform the function it was originally intended to 3. You have changed the shape and style of your saddle 4. You just must have this season’s latest colour 😊

How do I know what size saddle pad I need?

Measure the spine along your existing saddle pad from front to back, or if you don’t own a saddle pad, measure the length of your saddle from front to back adding 5 – 7 cms at each end to the final measurement. Compare the measurement with the saddle pad manufacturer’s measurement tables and choose the closest fitting saddle pad.