Half Pads - Born to Help Your Saddle Fit

Born of a desire to help absorb impact and help saddle fit, the half pad has become a very technical and innovative piece of English horse tack. Half pads sit on top of a regular saddle pad and under the saddle. If you are here you are probably looking at different half pads to potentially get for your horse. But you probably have some questions. Like, are half pads worth it? Or how will half pads help my horse? Here are some commonly asked questions about the half pad horse owners are looking for answers to.

Frequently Asked Questions About Half Pads

What is a half pad?

An English half pad provides cushioning for the top half of the horse's back while you ride. Half pads are often thicker than other kinds of pads and are worn with another longer pad that protects the horse's back from the rest of the saddle. Half pads can also be used to improve minor saddle fitting issues and increase the overall comfort of the horse. There are many type of half pads on the market today, including the following:

• Wither relief pads all focus on relieving pressure points from the saddle on the point of the horse‘s withers.
• Impact relief half pads are often filled with gel, foam or memory foam to absorb shock from the saddle.
• A simple anti-slip half pad can help keep the saddle in place. In contrast, a half pad with anti-slip features help keep the saddle on the half pad correctly.
• Riser pads are typically made of foam and help to raise the back of the saddle off the horse so the saddle sits level.
• A shim half pad allows the rider to place corrective padding in the thickness and location they desire.
• Contoured half pads are cut and shaped to fit perfectly around the saddle cantle and bars, providing comfort and a neat, tidy look.

Is a half pad necessary?

Half pads are not necessary to use on every horse, but most horses appreciate the extra cushion on their back. Half pads can help horses with sensitive backs feel more comfortable while they are being ridden. In addition, if your saddle doesn't fit your horse perfectly, a half pad can help decrease the pressure being put on their back while you ride.

How to use a half pad on a horse?

To put the half pad on, first put your normal pad on, then place the half pad on top. When putting pads on, sometimes it is best to put them too high up on the horse's back and slide them into place to ensure their hair is going with the pads. Then put your saddle on and tack up like you normally would.

Does the half pad go over or under the saddle pad?

The half pad usually goes over the saddle pad. Unless the half pad is a non-slip pad, then it would go under.

Can you use a half pad by itself?

The half pad can be used by itself safely, but it is recommended that it is worn with another pad to protect the horse's back from the rest of the saddle. Using a half pad by itself could cause rubbing or back sores.

How to fit a half pad?

Half pads should fit so they come out by about an inch in every area they stick out around the saddle. If the english half pad has fleece around the edges, it should be sticking out and not located under your saddle.