It is true that saddle seat horses are often ridden without pads but it is also true that it can rub the skin of your horse raw. If you have ever seen a saddle sore on your horse you will really want to protect them in the future.

It is a good idea to figure out the right pad to suit your horse, your discipline, the occasion, and the workout. Use the chart below to help decide what pads to use. What you need may vary but below are what are normally highly suggested.

Regular Back:

Summer Time: When your horse is strong and usually shows no saddle issues.

Jumping- medium weight shaped fleece pad

Hacking- light/medium weight quilted baby pad

Dressage- light/medium weight quilted dressage pad

Winter Time: Strong back no problems

Jumping- thick all purpose pad + non slip pad

Hacking- medium weight all purpose pad + shaped fleece pad

Dressage- fleece or wool lined dressage pad

Fall/spring: Strong back no problems

Jumping- breathable cotton pad + non slip pad

Hacking- medium weight all purpose pad

Dressage- medium weight dressage pad

Sensitive Back:

Summer Time: When it gets hot you are going to want to make sure you keep your mount as cool as possible.

Jumping- breathable cotton pad

Hacking- light weight quilted baby pad + shaped fleece girth

Dressage- medium weight dressage pad

Winter Time: We need to consider the change we make in our own dress.

Jumping- medium weight all purpose + half pad/wither relief pad

Hacking- thick all purpose pad + light weight shaped fleece pad

Dressage- thick quilted dressage pad + light weight shaped fleece pad

Spring/Fall:

Jumping- light weight all purpose pad + half pad/with relief pad

Hacking- thick all purpose pad

Dressage- light weight dressage pad + medium weight shaped fleece pad

Showing:

Regular back:

Jumping/HUS- doubled faced shaped fleece pad

Dressage- Light/medium weight dressage pad

Sensitive Back:

Jumping/HUS- light weight shaped fleece pad + half pad/wither relief pad

Dressage- Thick quilted dressage pad

Don't forget!

* To wash saddle pads frequently to remove dirt/hair/sweat

* Only use completely dry pads, never damp

* Use the girth and billet straps to prevent slipping

Take the time to frequently check your horse for spots that have the hair being worn off. You may even need to bring out a saddle fitter.

These are some great pointers to start. If you would like to discuss more about english riding please visit our resource links below.

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