Saddle Blankets, Pads & Squares
We have a really cool range of top quality pads and blankets for all disciplines including jumping, dressage, all purpose, sheepskin, and western saddle blankets. Brands include the popular Thinline and Lemieux, and the PS Of Sweden range.
A saddle pad is a piece of padding under the saddle to protect the horse’s back and get a better fit. It spreads the rider’s weight evenly, reduces pressure points and absorbs sweat. Saddle pads come in many materials, cotton, wool or foam and can be shaped to fit the type of saddle or discipline.
If you're new to riding, the below content will help you understand the ins and outs of saddle pads. If you're experienced, likely you can skip reading.
Key Points:
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Types: Square, shaped, special ones for different jobs.
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Materials: Comfy cotton to tough synthetics.
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Fit: Right fit keeps your horse happy and sores free.
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Care: Keep it clean to make it last!
What is a Saddle Pad and Why They're Important?
A saddle pad’s main purpose is to protect your horse’s back from the saddle. It spreads the rider’s weight. This stops the saddle from rubbing and sores. It absorbs sweat.
A good saddle pad makes riding more comfortable for both you and your horse. For your horse it’s all about comfort and no pain. For you it’s better product performance. A well fitting saddle pad keeps your saddle in place.
What to Look for When Choosing a Saddle Pad
When choosing a saddle pad think about the type of riding you do. Do you ride western or English? Also think about your horse’s back. Some horses need extra padding. What’s your budget and what do you like the look and feel of?
Different Types of Saddle Pads
English Saddle Pads English saddle pads can be thinner depending on the type of riding:
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Dressage Pads: Thin and close fitting for dressage.
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Jumping Pads: Light weight and curved for jumping.
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All-Purpose Pads: Good for many English disciplines.
Western Saddle Pads
Western saddle pads are thicker to cushion the heavier western saddle:
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Square Pads: The most common.
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Contoured Western Pads: Close fitting.
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Show Pads: Add some bling to your ride!
Specialty Saddle Pads
Some saddle pads do special jobs:
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Half Pads: Extra padding under your regular pad.
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Riser Pads: If your horse has high withers.
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Therapeutic Pads: For horses with back problems.
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Trail Riding Pads: Often have pockets!
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Endurance Pads: For long rides.
Saddle Pad Materials and Construction
Natural Materials - Nature gives us good options:
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Wool: Absorbs sweat.
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Cotton: Soft, comfy and easy to clean.
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Sheepskin: Super soft and luxurious.
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Natural Felt: Keeps its shape.
Synthetic Materials - Synthetic materials offer many options and benefits:
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ThinLine Technology: Large shock absorption
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Gel Materials: Cushioning.
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Synthetic Fleece: Soft and washable.
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Neoprene: Durable and water resistant.
Choosing the Right Saddle Pad
Fit Considerations: Your pad needs to fit your horse and your saddle. A pad that’s too small won’t protect your horse’s back. A pad that’s too big will make your saddle slip.
Discipline Specific Requirements: Different disciplines need different pads. A thick western pad won’t work for English riding. Dressage and jumping have their own pad needs.
Horse Conformation Needs: Does your horse have high withers? A riser pad might help. Does your horse have a sensitive back? Look for extra padding.
Climate and Weather: If you ride in hot weather choose a breathable pad. If it rains a lot where you live a waterproof pad might be helpful.
Saddle Pad Care and Maintenance
After each ride brush off your pad and let it dry. Choose a pad made of easy to clean materials. Most pads can be machine washed. Always check the tag! Store your pads in a clean dry place. Keep them away from bugs and mice! If your pad gets thin, worn or starts to fall apart it’s time for a new one.
Common Saddle Pad Problems and Solutions
A pad that’s too small or too big can be a problem. Make sure your pad is the right size for your horse and saddle. An anti-slip pad might help. You can shop non-slip. If your horse gets sore spots try a thicker pad or a pad with shims. Want to add some bling to your tack? Try purple pads.
A breathable pad will keep your horse cool.
Advanced Saddle Pad Features
- Shimmable Pads Shimmable pads mean you can add or remove foam inserts. This changes the pad’s thickness and helps you get a perfect fit.
- Anti-Slip Technology: Anti-slip pads keep your saddle from slipping. Some are textured. Others have gel.
- Moisture-Wicking Properties: Materials that wick pull sweat away from your horse’s skin. This keeps your horse dry and comfy.
- Custom Options: If you can’t find the big one you need you can shop custom. Just remember these are special order products.
Saddle Pad Safety and Performance
A good pad distributes your weight across your horse’s back. This keeps your horse comfy and prevents injuries. Your horse needs to move freely. A pad that’s too thick can restrict movement.
Popular Questions
Below you can see some of the most common questions we're asked about saddle blankets and pad collection.
What Brands Of Saddle Pads & Blanket Do You Sell?
We have a range of pads and blankets from the best brands from Australia an around the world. Along with the huge brands such as Lemieux, PS Of Sweden, and Thinline, we also sell Mattes pads, Cavallo, Cavalleria Toscana, Kentucky Horsewear, and many more.
What Types Of Blankets Do You Sell?
We have most types including jumping, western, dressage, bareback pads, and half pads. Available for every discipline you can think of.
Do You Sell Matchy Matchy Sets?
Yes we have a dedicated section to matchy matchy pads sets with ear bonnets and bandages.
