What riders say about our saddle pads
My saddler recommended this saddle pad to me during the last check-up. Before, his back was often tight after more intensive training sessions and my horse was sensitive when being groomed. Since we started using it, his back feels significantly softer after riding and my horse loosens up much faster.
— Trusted Shops Review
If targeted support is required under the saddle
A saddle pad is placed additionally between the saddle cloth and the saddle, thereby influencing the force transmission to the horse's back. Our pads are designed to absorb impact, cushion pressure points, and distribute forces over the largest possible area. They complement a proper saddle fit, but do not replace it.
When is a saddle pad useful?
Our saddle pads are specifically used when the horse's back needs additional support under load. It is always crucial that the saddle fits correctly in principle and does not become too tight due to the pad.
- For sensitive backs: Additional shock-absorbing properties can help to cushion impact peaks and relieve the back more comfortably during riding.
- For long or intensive training sessions: As duration increases, many repetitive load cycles act on the back. A functional pad can distribute these forces more evenly throughout the entire session.
- When minor fit differences need to be compensated for: A pad can cushion slight discrepancies between saddle and back, provided there is no fundamental misfit.
- For changing back musculature: Training, building phases, and seasonal changes can alter the shape of the back. A pad can offer additional support during such phases, but it should be checked regularly along with the saddle fit.
- When point pressure needs to be reduced: Our saddle pads help distribute occurring forces over a larger area instead of concentrating them on individual spots.
The benefits of our saddle pads
Our saddle pads are not just additional padding. What matters is how the material handles pressure, movement, and recurring stress, and how it prevents unnecessary bulk from building up under the saddle.
Distribute pressure over a larger area
The pad absorbs occurring forces and distributes them over a larger area so that individual regions can be less heavily stressed.
Absorb shock loads
With every step, short load peaks occur. The material can absorb a portion of this energy and dampen the transmission to the back.
Resilient material structure
A functional pad should return to its original shape after being under load, so that its cushioning properties are not lost due to compression after only a short period of time.
Low additional volume
Targeted relief does not automatically have to mean a lot of thickness. Less unnecessary material helps to change the original saddle position as little as possible.
Consistent contact in motion
A close-fitting pad can reduce small movements between the saddle and the back, ensuring a stable seat during various gaits.
Support under alternating load
Whether for dressage work, jumping, leisure riding, or longer training sessions: our pads provide support for the back where pressure and impact forces are constantly shifting during movement.
How pressure peaks stress the horse's back
There is no uniform static pressure under the saddle. With every step, the back shape, muscle tension, and the rider's weight change. This creates short-term pressure peaks that can strain individual areas more than the average value would suggest. A high-performance saddle pad addresses exactly this: it absorbs some of these peaks, distributes the load over a larger surface area, and can thus reduce pressure concentration on individual areas of the back.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about saddle pads
What is the purpose of a saddle pad under the saddle?
Our saddle pads can relieve pressure, distribute forces more evenly, and absorb impact. In doing so, they provide additional support for the horse's back, complementing the actual saddle padding.
Can a saddle pad correct an ill-fitting saddle?
No. A pad can influence minor differences and additionally help to relieve pressure and distribute it more evenly. However, it does not replace a professional saddle fitting. In the event of clear pressure points, bridging, or incorrect gullet width, the cause must first be addressed at the saddle.
Is a thicker saddle pad automatically better?
No. More material does not automatically mean better pressure distribution. A pad that is too thick can lift the saddle, reduce the available space, and thereby negatively alter the original fit.
When should I have the saddle fit checked, even if I am using a pad?
If your horse's musculature, weight, or fitness level change significantly, or if new sensitivity to pressure, dry patches in the sweat pattern, or discomfort during saddling occur, the saddle fit should be professionally re-examined.
Can I use our saddle pad for different disciplines?
Yes. The decisive factor is not the discipline alone, but that the shape, size, and fit under the respective saddle are correct. Our pads can therefore be used in all areas of training, depending on the saddle and horse.
How do I position a saddle pad correctly?
The pad should be positioned centrally under the saddle without putting pressure on the withers. After saddling, there must be sufficient clearance in the spinal and wither area, and the pad must not visibly lift the saddle out of its intended position.