The saddle pad conundrum!!!
Riders are occasinally confused by the wide selection of saddle pads and ask about the function of each and when to use them.
The pad used most often is a square pad. These come in a variety of colors and can be very playful. You can mix and match with polo wraps or tendon boots and be very colorful. This should only be done for schooling sessions since show judges are quite conservative.
The contour pad, in white quilted fleece with either a flannel underside or fleece on both sides is usually saved for the show days. There is also one available with a plastic pocket for the number card for your show.(Check with your trainer to see if this type is suitable for you). To keep these pads clean should you use your fllece contour pad more often, you can use a baby pad underneath. This is a very thin pad which absorbs the brunt of the sweat and dirt, making washing up a lot easier.
Theraputic pads that absorb concussion and shock can be a gel pad (which is a polymer gel encassed in a fabric cover), a Thinline pad (which is a foam product that is thinner than gel but equally shock absorbant), or a Keyhole or wither relief pad which adds a cushy layer of protection while allowing a high withered horse padding around the wither rather than on top where the saddle could rub and cause a sore. these pads come in either synthetic material or real wool/fleece. There is also just a fluffy 1/2 pad for the horse with a smaller wither but in need of a little extra padding on his back. These also come synthetic or fleece. They all can be used with a thin pad or baby pad for easier cleaning.
The riser pad is used to compensate for a saddle that doesn't fit a horse and rider quite right. The cantle(back of the saddle) riser elevates the cantle a bit. A pommel or front riser does just the opposite and is occasionally needed for a horse that lacks shoulder muscle to keep the saddle off the wither area. A pommel pad is also useful in that way but does not extend low on the shoulder.
A No Slip pad is a rubber full size pad that prevents the saddle and fabric pad from parting company, helping to keep the saddle in place. They are light weight and thin and should not interfere with the fit of the saddle.
Padded tubes of similiar fabric are also available to cushion the girth and prevent rubs and sores.
Hopes this helps to make your pad choice a little easier.
