Posted 2009-04-22 7:03 AM (#103749) Subject: Saddle Pad
Elite Veteran
Posts: 1069 Location: MI.
Depending on how much flocking is on your saddle, is there a standard rule of thumb as far as thickness of a saddle pad? My flocking is almost 3/4 of an inch and my pad is about an inch.
Posted 2009-04-22 11:59 AM (#103764 - in reply to #103749) Subject: RE: Saddle Pad
Elite Veteran
Posts: 781 Location: La Cygne, KS
The pad thickness really depends on the fit of your saddle and the type of riding that you are doing. Thicker pads tend to cause a saddle to roll. I prefer 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch, but I am using a saddle that fits my horses very well.
The type of material also affects fits. Thick plush will flatten out over time and not be a loafty. Felt compresses too. I prefer real wool pads with a bit of felt cushion in between or the tacky too pad for really hot days. I have not tried the memory foam pads yet; the concept seems plausible to reduce soreness and rider impact on the horses back.
Posted 2009-04-23 4:45 AM (#103795 - in reply to #103749) Subject: RE: Saddle Pad
Elite Veteran
Posts: 662 Location: Vanzant, Missouri
I use to use pads but they were bulky and my saddle never felt right. I switched to a 1/2 in wool pad and I usually put a 34 x 36 saddle blanket over that. Never have had any problems and my saddle sets better on him.
Posted 2009-04-23 6:58 AM (#103796 - in reply to #103749) Subject: RE: Saddle Pad
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 350 Location: Newton, NJ
I have a really good fitting reining saddle that I use for trail riding. My QH gelding is on the large side, not fat, so I'm using a 1/2" WonPad - closed cell foam with a felt top. Sweat is always evenly distributed on this saddle and the sweat creates lubrication so the foam does not rub the pressure points. Years ago, a rep from the Steubben saddle company in Germany explained to me that a saddle that fits correctly does not need any pad at all. English saddles do not have the fleece lining and the sweat that is created - leather against horse's hide - acts to lubricate and prevent rubbing. When I bought my reining saddle several years ago, the salesman told me virtually the same thing.
Saddle Pad
