All About Western Saddle Blankets and Pads

Western saddle pads, western saddle blankets, and western saddle pad liners are all designed to help protect your horse's back from the friction of the saddle. Western saddle pads are usually made from thick cotton, wool, fleece, or polyester material to add cushion and absorb sweat from your horse's back. Though they all have the same purpose Western saddle pads, western saddle blankets, and western saddle pad liners are all very different. Here are the key differences:

• Western saddle pads are thicker and have more structure than a saddle blanket or liner. They are harder to bend and usually have more cushion to them.
• Western saddle blankets are lighter and more flexible. They feel like a thick blanket, and they are not as thick as the western saddle pads. They are usually colorful and patterned.
• Western saddle pad liners are usually designed to prevent the saddle from slipping or to add more padding to a horse who already wears a saddle pad or blanket.

Frequently Asked Questions About Western Saddle Blankets and Pads

How do I choose a western saddle pad?

When choosing a western saddle pad or blanket, make sure you choose one with plenty of cushion. The pad needs to be thick enough to keep your horse comfortable while you ride. It should stick out about 1” around every part of your saddle and it should be almost 1” thick. Also, consider how big your saddle is and what kind of withers your horse has. If your horse has high withers they may be the most comfortable in a wither relief pad or if they have low withers it would be smart to get a nonslip western saddle pad liner. Also, consider your personal style when selecting a western saddle pad as there are many colored and patterned options available.

How thick should my western saddle pad be?

Your western saddle pad should be at least ⅞” thick, though a saddle pad that is 1” thick is best.

What is the difference between a Western saddle pad versus saddle blanket?

The difference between a Western saddle pad and Western saddle blanket is that a saddle pad is thicker and more structured. It often looks like the shape of a horse's back because of the contour of the pad. Saddle blankets are thinner and are not contoured.

What western saddle pad material is best?

There is no one best material for a Western saddle pad. This depends on what type of riding you are doing or what your specific needs are. Felt or wool are great all-purpose options as they provide good breathability and shock absorption, neoprene is excellent for shock absorption but isn’t as breathable.