How to Choose a Half Pad How to Choose a Half PadA half pad is a contoured saddle pad without flaps that sits under the panels of a saddle. Most are used over a regular saddle pad or baby pad, but some can be used directly on a horse's back underneath a regular pad. A half pad is usually used to solve a problem, such as saddle fitting or slipping issues or reducing equine back pain through shock absorption.
They come in a variety of materials and styles:
- Genuine sheepskin: offers a classic look with the option of trim in front/back. Dense sheepskin fibers mold comfortably to a horse's back to distribute pressure and are naturally breathable, shock absorbing and moisture-wicking.
- Synthetic fleece: a less expensive alternative to genuine sheepskin. Synthetic fibers help distribute pressure, allow air circulation and absorb shock.
- Foam or gel: a high-tech option. These pads absorb the impact of rider activity and help to distribute weight evenly along a horse's back to relieve pressure points. Grippy foam or gel materials can help prevent saddle slippage.
- Correction: designed to help with saddle fit. Pockets in front and back hold shims you can use to adjust the way a saddle sits on a horse.
- Specialty half pads include those that have a hole to ensure wither relief or a thicker area to lift the front or back of a saddle.
Some half pads are cut specifically to fit jumping, all-purpose or dressage saddles; be sure to match the type of half pad to your saddle type. Additionally, sizes correspond to saddle seat size.
Note: if your saddle fits well, use caution in adding bulk with a half pad as it may cause the saddle to fit poorly.
Saddle Pad Sizing Shaped Saddle Pad SizingCurved to mimic the shape of a saddle, shaped fleece pads are available for jumping, all-purpose and dressage saddles. They can be made of genuine sheepskin or synthetic fleece.Size is usually determined by matching the pad to both the type of saddle and the seat size. (To measure the seat size, run a tape measure from one of the screw heads on the side of the pommel to the middle of the cantle.) You can also take the measurement of the saddle pad's spine and drop an apply those to your saddle. You want an even border of about two inches of saddle pad showing around the edge of your saddle. To achieve the perfect look for your particular saddle, you may want to try pads from different manufacturers.
All-Purpose "Square" Saddle Pad Sizing Offered in sizes for horses and ponies, these all-purpose pads are suited to saddles designed for jumping. Take the spine measurement in consideration of the length of your saddle's panels front to back and the drop measurement in consideration of the length of your saddle's flaps. A pad should cover your horse's back under the saddle with a bit of pad visible in front of the pommel and behind the cantle. The amount of pad you see is up to your personal preference and the needs of your horse.
Note: Â Using a Short Girth with a Monoflap Event Saddle
If you use a short girth with a Monoflap Event saddle, be sure you have at least three to four fingers' width between the top of the girth and the bottom of the saddle pad and saddle flap on both sides. If the girth comes to close to the edge of the saddle pad or flap, your horse's skin can be pinched.
Dressage Saddle Pad SizingDressage pads are cut to fit the long, straight flaps of dressage saddles and are often contoured along the withers and topline. Take the spine measurement in consideration of the length of your saddle's panels front to back and the drop measurement in consideration of the length of your saddle's flaps. A pad should cover your horse's back under the saddle with a bit of pad visible in front of the pommel and behind the cantle. The amount of pad you see is up to your personal preference and the needs of your horse.
Note: Â Using a Short Girth with a Dressage Saddle
If you use a short girth with your dressage saddle, be sure you have at least three to four fingers' width between the top of the girth and the bottom of the saddle pad and saddle flap on both sides. If the girth comes to close to the edge of the saddle pad or flap, your horse's skin can be pinched.
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