Why do we use saddle pads and numnahs beneath our equines’ saddles? Today’s saddles are more well-fitting than they have ever been; but not every horse is the perfect shape, and saddle pads allow us to enhance the benefits that a saddle gives. A good saddle pad protects the saddle from wear and dirt, and can soak up some of the equine’s sweat, helping to avoid irritation.
Saddle pads also help reduce rider pressure, and may spread the ‘shock’ or impact caused by riding.
Studies have found that the front part of the saddle rotates in the opposite direction to the rider’s pelvis, and that the rider's influence on the horse’s movement pattern is strongest at walk.
They have also confirmed that rising trot is more ‘stable’ and less stressful for the horse or pony’s back, compared to sitting trot; and that the jumping position offers the lowest load on the horse's back. Such studies also advise that a well chosen saddle pad can reduce the load on the horse's back, therefore improve the suitability of a fitting saddle.
So, it isn’t a case that fast riding and jumping causes the most pressure; and nor is it the case that a numnah or saddle pad reduces the suitability of a saddle!
Search online for numnahs and saddle pads, and you will see that the average price is £25-£35, for non-embellished versions. But what if you could find a well-made, high-quality numnah in three colourways and two sizes, for under £15? Our forward-cut saddle pad for horses and ponies is reinforced at the gullet, and is shaped to ensure the wither area does not become compromised or compressed. The 930 gsm material offers a mid-thickness fibre-blend pad with limited stitching that helps reduce pressure points beneath the saddle - our thick-weave material gives a larger surface area of weave, to maximise absorbency. Our saddle pad is ideal for GP (general purpose), jumping and showing saddles. It’s machine washable and dries easily.