Classic equine English saddle pads

If you're a rider, you know that saddle pads are an essential piece of horse tack. They help keep your horse comfortable while you ride, and they can also help protect your saddle from wear and tear. There are two basic types of saddle pads. English pad and western pad. In this blog post, we'll look at the English saddle pads. What are they? What makes them different? What types of English pads are there? When to use them? And all the other questions that arise with the use of English saddle pads. Interested in knowing more? Read on!

What is a saddle pad?

A saddle pad is a piece of tack that goes between the horse and the saddle. This close contact helps protect the horse's back from the saddle, and it also helps keep the saddle in place. This increases the comfort and safety of the rider and the horse.

Type of saddle pads

There are two basic types of pads on the market: Western saddle pads and English saddle pads.

Western saddle pads

Western pads are designed to be used with Western saddles. They have a more rectangular shape and are generally thicker and more cushioned than their english counterpart. This is because they are used for the Western style of riding, which puts more emphasis on comfort. Western saddle pads are often used for trail riding, pleasure riding, and roping.

English saddle pads

English pads are designed to be used with English saddles. They have a contoured shape that fits well under the saddle and provides a little extra cushioning. They are used for the English style of riding, which includes dressage, show jumping, and eventing.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at English saddle pads.

What are English saddle pads?

English saddle pads are designed to provide a little extra cushioning and padding under the saddle. They are made from a variety of materials, including wool, felt, cotton, and synthetic fibers. These saddle pads come in a variety of colors, patterns, and designs.

What is a typical English pad shape?

English saddle pads have a contoured shape that hasa close contact with the saddle. They are generally narrower at the front and wider at the back. This allows them to provide extra cushioning and support for the rider's thighs and hips.

What materials are English saddle pads made of?

English saddle pads are made from a variety of materials, including wool, felt, cotton, and synthetic fibers. Wool is a popular choice for English saddle pads because it's absorbent and helps keep the horse's back cool. Felt is popular because it's soft and cushioned. Cotton is not as absorbent as wool or felt which makes it a less expensive option suitable for new riders. Synthetic fibers are a popular choice for these pads because they're durable and easy to care for.

What is a typical English pad thickness?

English pads are generally thinner than Western pads and have less padding. This is because English saddles are designed to be ridden in a more upright position, which doesn't require as much cushioning.

What colors do English saddle pads come in?

Saddle pads come in a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, grey, and blue. They also come in a variety of patterns. Some popular patterns include plaid, stripes, and polka dots.

What are some specific English saddle pad types?

There are several different types of pads on the market, including full squares, shaped pads, half pads, and riser pads.

Full square

Full square English saddle pads are the most basic type of pads. They are typically made from a single layer of material and have a square or rectangular shape. Full squares are a good choice for riders who want a simple, no-frills pad.

Shaped pad

Shaped English saddle pads are designed to contour to the shape of the horse's back. They typically have a layer of padding in the center and may be made from a variety of materials, including wool, felt, or synthetic fibers. Shaped pads are a good choice for riders who want a little extra cushioning and support under their saddle.

Half pad

Half English pads are designed to provide additional padding and cushioning under the saddle. They have a layer of padding in the center and are typically made from a variety of materials, including wool, felt, or synthetic fibers. Half pads are a good choice for riders who want a little extra support and cushioning under their saddle.

Riser pad

Riser English pads are designed to raise the saddle up off the horse's back. They have a layer of padding in the center and are typically made from a variety of materials, including wool, felt, or synthetic fibers. Riser pads are a good choice for riders who want to increase the height of their saddle.

What should you consider before buying an English saddle pad?

There are a few things to consider before buying an English pad.

A pad is meant to increase comfort and safety for your horse and you during your riding. The question is though, what kind of riding will you do and what horse will you use?

Here are a few factors to consider before making your purchase:

The type of riding you'll be doing

Are you planning on doing a lot of jumping? you'll want a pad that is thicker in the front to protect your horse's shoulders from the impact. For dressage or show jumping, a thinner pad will suffice.

Is your riding style rough? A thicker and more durable saddle will be a great choice for you.

The horse you'll be using

What is the size of your horse? Make sure to measure your horse's withers (the area between the shoulder blades) to ensure you get the right size pad.

What is the shape of your horse's back? If it has a rounder back, you'll want a pad with more contouring to provide a closer fit. If it has a flatter back, you'll want a pad that is flatter to work correctly.

How is your horse's coat? If it has a very thick coat, you may want to get a thinner pad so it doesn't cause your horse to sweat too much. If it has a thinner coat, you'll want a thicker pad to provide more cushioning.

What saddle pad should you get for the English riding?

Dressage

The best dressage pads are ones that are thin, contoured, and durable. They should also be light-colored to help hide dirt.

Showjumping

The best saddle pad for show jumping is one that is thicker in the front to protect your horse's shoulders from the impact. It should also be light-colored to help hide dirt.

English pleasure

English pleasure is riding for transportation. You can aim for a saddle pad that is comfortable for both you and your horse.

How to clean and care for your English saddle pad?

Your horse's sweat and dirt will build upon your saddle pad over time. It's important to clean your saddle pad regularly to keep it looking fresh and new. Here are a few tips on how to clean and care for your saddle pad:

Consult your manufacturer's cleaning recommendations first and foremost.

Use a brush to loosen any dirt, debris, and hair that is caked on the surface of your saddle pad. Prepare a tub with warm water (no more than 30 degrees). If your manufacturer allows, you can use soap or a mild cleaning solution. Submerge and soak your saddle pad in the tub.

Gently work the sweat and dirt out of the fabric. Rinse your saddle pad thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Alternatively, if the manufacturer's instructions allow, you can wash your pad in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Flat dry your saddle pad in a well-ventilated area out of the direct sunlight.

Do not put your saddle pad in the dryer as this can damage the fabric. When your saddle pad is completely dry, brush it lightly with a soft-bristled brush to restore the fabric's nap.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your saddle pad looking and performing like new. Store your saddle pad in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Conclusion

Not sure what pad to buy? Contact us and we'll help you choose the best one for your specific needs. Do you know exactly what you want? Browse our collection and our selection of saddle pads. We might currently have some special offers in stock that fit your style.