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Choosing the Best Western Saddle Pad
Western saddle pads are a very important piece of tack because they keep the saddle from rubbing your horse and also protect the saddle from sweat and dirt. Many horses use special western saddle pads while being ridden to help correct minor saddle fitting issues and to ease pressure on sensitive backs. Getting the right pad is very important to keeping your horse happy while you ride. Here are some different types of western saddle pads:
- Contoured Western Saddle Pads: These pads follow the shape of the horse's back to improve their comfort while they are being ridden. Contoured Western saddle pads also often have a wither relief component.
- Non-Contoured Western Saddle Pads: These western pads are not contoured and are simply flat. Non-contoured western saddle pads are usually very flexible and shape around the horse's back when you put them on.
- Foam Western Saddle Pads: Foam western pads shape to the horse's back when used. Foam western pads can be contoured or non-contoured and they even out the pressure being put on your horse's back while they are being ridden. These pads often use memory foam or other specialized foams as padding.
- Gel Western Saddle Pads: Gel pads are especially great for horses who have sensitive backs. Gel western saddle pads absorb shock and distribute pressure evenly on the horse's back.
- Western Show Pads: These pads are designed specifically for the show ring. Western show pads come in many colors and styles to help you stand out in front of the judge and show off your personal style.
Frequently Asked Questions About Western Saddle Pads
Which western saddle pad is the best?
The best western saddle pad fits your horse and keeps them comfortable while you ride. The right western saddle pad will vary depending on your situation. For example, if your horse has a sensitive back the best western saddle pad for them might be a gel pad.
How thick should my western saddle pad be?
The thickness of your western saddle pad should be at least ⅞ inches. However, 1 inch the optimal thickness of your western saddle pad should be.
Saddle pad versus saddle blanket?
The difference between a western saddle pad and western saddle blanket is that the saddle pads are usually thicker and less flexible. Saddle blankets are like a thick wool blanket, but they are usually lighter and more flexible but they are never contoured.
Which western saddle pad keeps a horse coolest?
Western saddle pads designed specifically for keeping the horse cool and encouraging airflow will keep him the coolest. In addition, the best material in saddle pads for keeping the horse cool is wool, so make sure wool is included in the pad if you are looking to keep your horse cool.