What riders say about our saddle accessories
The stirrup covers are so simple, but I wouldn't want to be without them anymore. Pull them up, tighten the drawstring, and finally no more scratches on the saddle.
— Trusted Shops Review
The girth finally fits without sitting directly behind the elbow.
— Customer review of the short girth (Monaco)
To be honest, I was initially skeptical about the Cloud One because I had already tried out several pads. However, I noticed the difference immediately while riding. My horse swings more freely through its back and the saddle stays stable even with a lot of movement. At the same time, the pad isn't unnecessarily bulky. For me, it has become one of the most useful pieces of our equipment.
— Customer review for the dressage saddle pad (Cloud One)
The saddle pad arrived in a nice storage bag and looked really classy right out of the packaging. After several training sessions and the first wash, it still sits just as neatly under the saddle. I particularly like that horse hair doesn't get stuck to the inside.
— Customer review for the dressage saddle pad (Wellington)
The right details regarding the saddle
Saddle accessories fulfill very different tasks. Saddle pads lie between the saddle and the horse's back, girths secure the saddle to the horse, pads can specifically influence pressure distribution, and stirrup covers protect the saddle and irons during storage and transport. It is therefore always crucial to consider which problem the accessory is intended to solve and how it interacts with the rest of the equipment.
Which saddle accessories are right for your needs?
Depending on the training, horse, and equipment, different requirements arise. Instead of using as many accessories as possible, every piece should serve a clear purpose and fit the existing saddle area.
- For daily use under the saddle: A well-fitting saddle pad absorbs sweat and dirt, protects the underside of the saddle, and creates a clean contact surface for the horse's back.
- If the girth area is particularly sensitive: A suitably shaped saddle girth can distribute pressure more comfortably in the sternum and elbow area and leave room for movement where the front leg swings far back.
- If the saddle area needs targeted correction: Correction and saddle pads can compensate for minor fit differences and improve pressure distribution. However, they do not replace a fundamentally proper saddle fitting.
- For jumping and dressage: Different saddle pad shapes follow the cut of the respective saddle and keep unnecessary material away from areas where it could cause wrinkles or pressure.
- For storage and transport: Stirrup covers keep dirt and hard metal edges away from the saddle and prevent irons from rubbing directly against the leather when carrying or storing it.
The benefits of high-quality saddle accessories
Well-thought-out accessories not only support the saddle itself, but also the contact surfaces between horse, rider, and equipment. Functional materials, a suitable shape, and details that make daily handling easier are essential.
Less friction on sensitive contact surfaces
Smooth, close-fitting materials and neatly finished edges can reduce chafing where the saddle, girth, or saddle pad make contact with the horse during every movement.
Controlled moisture absorption
Saddle pads and suitable cushioning materials absorb sweat and help keep the skin under the saddle as dry and comfortable as possible.
Distribute pressure more precisely
Our saddle pads can distribute pressure over a larger area. In this regard, thicker is not automatically better, because additional volume can also alter the saddle fit.
More freedom of movement at the elbow
Anatomically shaped girths can leave the area behind the elbow freer, thereby reducing disruptive contact during the backward movement of the front leg.
Protect equipment from abrasion
Stirrup covers prevent direct contact between metal, dirt particles, and saddle leather, thus helping to avoid scratches and abrasion during storage or transport.
More practical for daily use
Easy-care materials, well-thought-out fastenings, and a suitable shape make it easier to put on, take off, clean, and store the equipment.
Why more padding is not automatically better when it comes to saddle accessories
Under the saddle, alternating forces act on the horse's back with every step. A pad can influence this load by distributing pressure or compensating for minor discrepancies. However, if too much material is placed under a saddle that is already well-positioned and fitted, its position changes: the saddle may become tighter, sit higher, or exert more pressure in other areas. Therefore, additional padding should always serve a specific purpose and be compatible with the existing saddle fit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about saddle accessories
What is the difference between a saddle cloth and a saddle pad?
A saddle pad is a textile underlay that absorbs sweat and protects the saddle from dirt. A saddle pad is used more specifically for additional cushioning, pressure distribution, or correcting the saddle fit.
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.
How do I know if my girth fits correctly?
The girth should lie centrally on the ribcage, must not chafe directly behind the elbow, and should be tightened evenly on both sides. Even when moving, it must not pull forward or exert pressure on specific points.
Why should a saddle pad not be too thick?
Additional thickness changes the distance between the saddle and the horse's back. If a saddle is already properly adjusted, too much material can impair the fit and increase pressure elsewhere.
Why do I need stirrup covers?
They protect the saddle and stirrups from dirt, moisture, scratches, and abrasion during storage and transport. Sand and stable dust, in particular, can act like fine abrasive particles between metal and leather.
How often should I clean saddle pads?
This depends on usage and the amount of sweat. Heavily sweated-on or soiled pads should be cleaned promptly so that salt, dirt, and moisture do not remain on the skin and material permanently.