Looking for the best half pads for horses?
Choosing the right pad is important as the wrong decision can actually have the opposite effect than you desire.
I’ve taken all the guesswork out for you with this buying guide covering 14 of the best options for you and what to avoid.
Let’s take a look.
Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
14 Best Half Pads (With In-Depth Reviews)
#1 ECP Air Ride Shock Absorbing Half Saddle Pad
If you want a lightweight, thin pad at a reasonable price, you’ll like this option.
Physical Attributes
- Mesh openings
- Proprietary TPE foam
- Shock absorbing
Sizes and Measurements
- One Size
Benefits & Drawbacks of ECP Air Ride Shock Absorbing Half Saddle Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Breathable | Foam likely to wear out faster than some other options |
Not bulky | |
Non slip |
How it Compares to Others and Why
This is one of the most budget friendly options in my guide. It is also foam but thin for those the don’t want a thick pad but don’t like gel.
Expert Tips
Saddle pads are not as straight forward as you think. Here are some do’s and don’ts from an expert saddler.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About ECP Air Ride Shock Absorbing Half Saddle Pad
A happy horse rider has this to say about this pad: “This is a very nice thin, cushiony half pad.”
- Breathable, lightweight and shock absorbent
- Small, comfortable ventilation holes prevent excessive sweating
- Ventilated back prevents overheating
- Mesh openings provide soothing relief to the back
- Earth friendly and recyclable
#2 Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad Middle Riser
Sticking with Kavallerie, their gel saddle pad model is extremely popular. I have one myself and find it great if you want to add some shock absorption without bulk.
Physical Attributes
- Air channels
- Patented Reiter gel material
- Comes in black
- Middle Riser
Sizes and Measurements
- One Size but can cut down size
Benefits & Drawbacks of Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Not bulky | Gel isn’t as good as wool or foam for reducing pressure |
Breathable | |
Very flexible | |
Pressure distribution | |
Can make smaller |
How it Compares to Others and Why
This is the thinnest option and good for those that want something that won’t be too bulky, especially if using one of the thicker pads will actually make the saddle fit worse.
Expert Tips
How do you pick the right half pad? See what these horse tack experts have to say.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad
Check out this helpful review of the Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad.
- ✅ All Horses Need Love And Attention. Four specifically designed gel saddle pads to choose from: Seat Saver, Middle Riser, Rear Riser, and Front Riser. Each has specific features and use. Every back condition that your horse may suffer from, we have the gel saddle pad to help you and your horse to have the most comfortable rides.
- ✅ Provides Cushion Your Horses Need. We know you care a lot about your horse's health. That's why we developed a gel saddle pad that will reduce uneven pressure distribution on your horse's back. Imagine a layer of cloud-like support every time you train or go for a quick ride.
- ✅ A Reliable Gel Saddle Pad That Does It All. Made from soft yet strong materials that keep your saddle from moving, we put 100+ gel holes that prevent heat that causes too much sweating, discomfort, irritation, and skin sores. This is one gel saddle pad your horse will be happy to have.
- ✅ Easy To Maintain. A gel pad that's easy to clean and maintain? We got you and your horse covered! Kavallerie offers a series of gel saddle pads that are designed not only to provide comfort and align your horse's back with the saddle but also easy to wash. Just wash it with water and you are good to go!
- ✅ Use It For Any Event. Help your horse perform with ease and comfort. Have a saddle pad that supports its back during dressage, jumping, or training. Yes, you don’t need to find another set saddle pads for each event. Kavallerie soothing gel pad has got your horse’s back covered (literally).
#3 HORZE Fur Half Pad
I’ve included this half pad for those looking for something on a tighter budget. I’m not a big fan of fleece half pads as they are poor at shock absorbing, but can still be helpful. This is one of the best fleece half pads you can get.
Physical Attributes
- Quilted fabric
- Non-slip fleece
- Billet Straps
- Comes in grey, black, or white
Sizes and Measurements
Horse or pony size
Benefits & Drawbacks of HORZE Fur Half Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Budget friendly | Not very shock absorbing |
Breathable | Some users find it too thin |
Helps minor saddle fit issues | |
Washes easily |
How it Compares to Others and Why
This is a great pad for a tight budget or for someone who wants to make a slight adjustment to the fit of their saddle.
It is thin, so won’t add a lot of bulk but it is not as good at distributing pressure and absorbing shock as some of the others.
Expert Tips
You may have heard how important a correctly fitted saddle is for your horse’s well-being. So how does a proper saddling fitting happen? Find out here from saddle experts.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About HORZE Fur Half Pad
Natalie found this half pad perfect for her needs. She has this to say: “Product was great! Worked like a charm for practice and showing!”
- Measurement Chart for Accurate Sizes: Unsure of what size you should order? We have you covered. A Horze-specific measurement chart is available in the images to help you choose the right size that will fit your horse. To ensure you order a half pad that feels comfortable and fits properly, we recommend you take a few minutes to re-check your horse's measurements even if you've ordered these half pads before.
- Keep Your Saddle In Place: This non-slip half pad raises the saddle to accommodate minor saddle fitting issues. This half pad features a fleece underside and faux fur edging to provide a secure and comfortable fit.
- Breathable Diamond Quilt Pattern: The elegant diamond-quilted pattern gives this half fur pad a luxuriously elegant look and feel. The half-pad is made from a blend of cotton and polyester blend to maximize breathability.
- Attached Billet Straps: The attached billet straps ensure your half fur pad stays in place.
- Multiple Colors To Choose From: Classy and elegant colors to match your style.
#4 Exselle Half Pad with Wither Relief
This is a new brand for me but I really like the look of this wither relief pad. It is made with foam and has a fleece bottom and extra room at the wither.
Physical Attributes
- Fleece bottom
- 10mm thick sponge interior
- Cotton twill top
- Comes in white or black
Sizes and Measurements
- 19-inches long
Benefits & Drawbacks of Exselle Half Pad with Wither Relief
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Great for high wither horses | Not the easiest to clean |
Good price | |
Sof and flexible |
How it Compares to Others and Why
For a thicker foam pad with extra room around the withers, this is a great value. It has more room for the withers than some other options and is also one of the cheapest.
Expert Tips
Want to know how to check your saddle to make sure it still fits? I found this video about 6 steps you can take from a saddler fitter really helpful.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Exselle Half Pad with Wither Relief
Horse parent, Michelle, found this pad ‘perfect’ for her high withered thoroughbred. “I couldn’t be happier with this item”
- CUSHIONED FIT: The Exselle Half Pad with Wither Relief sits snugly between your saddle and the horse’s wither to provide a cushioned padding that relieves discomfort and keeps your horse safe while riding.
- KEEP YOUR HORSE COMFORTABLE: The 100% cotton twill fabric is super comfortable, and the fleece bottom feels soft against your horse’s coat. For the best fit, this pad should only be used with saddles over 17 inches.
- EVERYTHING BUT THE HORSE: For over 45 years, Intrepid International has been the leading global manufacturer and distributor of products for horse and rider. We strive to provide quality products at reasonable prices with superior customer service.
- SPECIFICATIONS: Includes (1) Exselle Half Pad with Wither Relief - White. Fleece bottom with rolled edge, cotton twill top, 6mm felt and 10mm sponge padding, 5 in cut out hole, 22. 5 in long.
#5 Thinline Ultra Sheepskin Comfort Half Pad
I can’t mention the best half-pad brands without including Thinline’s products. While Thinline pads are very trendy, they are also really good!
Thinline is unique in that as their names says their pads are extra thin. They provide shock absorption with a special open-cell foam that doesn’t add bulk under your saddle.
This particular pad is the full works. It has a sheepskin underside with a Thinline pad on top for an extra layer of protection.
It also has pockets for shims. You can also get regular Thinline pads without all the extra features, which I recommend as well.
Physical Attributes
- 2 saddle attachment straps
- Sheepskin pads
- Thinline pad on top
Sizes and Measurements
- Comes in medium or large
- Available in black or white
Benefits & Drawbacks of Thinline Ultra Sheepskin Comfort Half Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Shock absorbing | Pricey |
Helps distribute weight evenly | |
Help give the rider a more comfortable ride | |
Reduces pressure points |
How it Compares to Others and Why
Thinline is one of the Thoroughbreds of half-pads. Helps the comfort of the horse and the rider. What is has that others don’t have is a lack of bulk.
This is great for custom-made saddles as these saddles can end up fitting wrong if you add a pad that is too thick.
Expert Tips
If you want to encourage your horse to have more free movement, then I suggest trying out this pad. Thinline claims that it helps allow the horse to move more freely and the rider to sit its gaits more easily.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Thinline Ultra Sheepskin Comfort Half Pad
Find out what this horse rider, has to say about this incredibly popular half pad here.
- Protects and absorbs shock. Shimmable.
#6 EquiFit ImpacTeq Half Pad
EquiFit makes impact protection products that I love. They are better known for their tendon boots, but their half pad incorporates all the same modern materials.
Physical Attributes
- Breathable
- Anti-microbial
- Multi-dimensional air mesh
Sizes and Measurements
- Pony spine length 19-inches
- Standard spine length 21.5-inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of EquiFit ImpacTeq Half Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Molds to the horse’s back | Expensive |
Fits well under most saddles | Takes a bit longer to arrive |
Absorbs extreme impact | |
Easy to clean |
How it Compares to Others and Why
EquiFit incorporates their extreme impact-absorbing mastering into their half-pads to provide an option that is not too bulky.
It is more expensive than some options, but you get what you pay for with quality and protection.
Expert Tips
If you ride multiple horses a day and want a pad that doesn’t raise the saddle too far off the back, this is a good choice to consider.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About EquiFit ImpacTeq Half Pad
Horse parent, Terese, is a big fan! Here’s what she has to say: “best half pad…worth the price.”
#7 Lami-Cell Memory Foam Half Pad
In the last few years, memory foam has become very popular with makers of equine half-pads. It is one of my favorite materials for this type of gear and I particularly like Lami-Cell’s products.
I really like that this pad is discreet and simple. Plus it comes at a great price.
Physical Attributes
- Memory foam
- Black
- Faux leather trim in the same color
Sizes and Measurements
- 1 to 1 ¼ inch thick
- One size
Benefits & Drawbacks of Lami-Cell Memory Foam Half Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Lightweight | Only one size |
Shock absorbing | |
Helps keep the saddle in place |
How it Compares to Others and Why
Compared to other half pad options this Lami-Cell product is of excellent value. You get your foot in the door with a memory foam pad at an affordable price, as many half-pads using this material often cost more.
Expert Tips
While I love memory foam pads, they do have one thing I don’t like. The foam does not last as long as a gel or the material you find in the amazing Eco Gold pads.
One thing I notice is that they lose their shape, especially where the saddle sits and takes the weight.
When you start to notice a dent in the pad test it by squeezing it between your hands. You will be able to feel that the pad is no longer providing any shock absorption.
When you feel this, you will need to replace your pad.
Half Pads -Good? Bad? Find out more from a saddler fitter in this helpful video.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Lami-Cell Memory Cell Half Pad
Check out this review from a regular horse owner, just like you.
- Helps Keep Saddle in Exactly the Right Place
- Gel Foam
- Absorbs Shock
- Provides Spine Relief
- Eliminates Pressure Points
#8 ECP Equine Comfort Products Correction Half Saddle Pad
ECP’s Equine Comfort Pad is one of the best shimmable half pad options available outside of Prolite.
As many horse owners know their horse can change shape along their back depending on weight, fitness, and muscle development.
A shimmable pad allows you to insert different width pads to adjust for these changes.
They also allow you to use different sizes in the front and rear of the pad which means you can adjust certain parts of the saddle if necessary.
Physical Attributes
- Brushed Cotton topside
- Density foam shims
- 2 straps to attach it to the girth straps
Sizes and Measurements
- 4 pockets for shims
- Lots of great color choices
- 22-inches along the top
Benefits & Drawbacks of ECP Equine Comfort Products Correction Half Saddle Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Shock absorbent | The foam shims wear out a bit too quickly |
Adjustable | |
Can help stabilize saddle fit issues |
How it Compares to Others and Why
One thing I really like about this pad compared to others is that you can adjust the shims to make it thinner or thicker depending on the saddle and horse.
It also comes with a cotton cover, which is really easy to through in the wash.
Expert Tips
The shims of this pad are not washable. Make sure you remove them before you put the cover in the wash.
For some tips from a fellow equestrian on half pad fitting take a look at this video.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About ECP Equine Comfort Products Correction Half Saddle Pad
Horse owner and saddle fitter, Shannon, just loves this pad! Here’s what she has to say: “Fabulous alternative to buying the $150+ Fleeceworks pad. I’m a saddle fitter and use these to help demos fit client horses during appointments, and recommend this pad to trainers to allow their saddle to fit many different horses”
- Comes with memory foam inserts; Adjustable
- Absorbs shocks; Helps prevent injuries
- Provides comfort to both horse and rider
- Features 4 pockets with contoured shims for front and back
- Available in multiple colors
#9 Fleeceworks Half Pad Classic
Fleeceworks makes some of the best half pads. They are traditional with modern features integrated to make them even better for your horse.
This pad uses really wool, the only material worth using outside of gel or memory foam. I really like that they designed the pad to provide wither relief.
This is good for every horse as you want to avoid pressure in that area but it is especially good for horses with high withers.
Physical Attributes
- Elastic just below the top line
- Sheepskin
- Cotton stitched top
Sizes and Measurements
- Comes in small, medium, large, and extra large
- Size length is 18 to 21 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of #10 Fleeceworks Half Pad Classic
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Suitable for all-purpose, close contact, and dressage saddles | Expensive |
Anatomically correct | |
Integrated elastics relieve pressure |
How it Compares to Others and Why
Fleeceworks is a high-end brand that makes it more expensive than many other options. Its integrated elastic strips are unique in that they stretch vertically instead of horizontally. [1]
This prevents the shoulder’s rotational pull from adding unwanted pressure on the back.
Expert Tips
These pads are washable but make sure to follow the instructions by using a suitable detergent for wool. Also, even though this pad is expensive don’t be swayed by cheaper fleece versions that are not really wool.
Fleece in general is a pretty terrible material for a half pad. It does not provide the shock-absorbing protection that wool does. It is also hotter whereas wool actually helps to regulate temperature.
My advice is to never buy a fleece half-pad, as it flattens quickly and the only thing it does is add bulk under the saddle without the benefits.
Learn more about this popular pad from equestrian tack experts here.
#10 Mattes Gold All Purpose Correction Half Pad
Mattes is one of the gold standard half pad brands. They have correction pads with shims, pads without shims, and those shaped to fit dressage saddles.
This pad does not have sheepskin panels but does have wool attached to the fabric. Mattes is one of the most popular wool half-pads amongst riders, despite the price.
Physical Attributes
- Wool backed fabric
- 2 straps to attach to your saddle
Sizes and Measurements
- 1 ¼ inch thick wool backing
- Medium or Large
Benefits & Drawbacks of Mattes Gold All Purpose Correction Half Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Because it is wool backing only it stays softer after washing and dries quicker | Expensive |
High quality | |
Good shock absorption |
How it Compares to Others and Why
If you want one of the best half pads for your horse that uses wool, then this is it.
It is more expensive than many of the others so if it does suit your budget take a look at the great gel or memory foal options on my list.
Expert Tips
This is a correction half-pad. If you don’t need this, then I feel it’s better to just get a standard half-pad. If you have a dressage saddle, take a look at the Mattes pad created specifically to fit this type of saddle.
I found this video really helpful to understand the design of Mattes Half Pads, I’m sure you will too!
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Mattes Gold All Purpose Correction Half Pad
Mattes are very popular for their quality. Find out what this horse rider has to say about the dressage version of this pad.
Check: Saddle Pad for Swayback Horse
#11 Horze Harleigh Sheepskin Rising Pad
While this half-pad is pricey it is a cheaper wool option from the excellent brand, Horze. Horze always tries to provide high-quality products at more reasonable prices, which is one thing I really like about them.
What I really love about this pad in particular is the mesh ventilation strip along the spine.
Physical Attributes
- Real sheepskin
- Open mesh spine channel
Sizes and Measurements
- Pony size suits 14 to 16.5-inch saddles
- Full-size suits 16 to 18.5 inch saddles
Benefits & Drawbacks of Horze Harleigh Sheepskin Rising Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Good shock-absorbing qualities | Expensive but a cheaper option than Mattes |
Mesh spine channel helps airflow | |
Durable |
How it Compares to Others and Why
This is another excellent pad if you want to go with traditional wool protection. It has more ventilation along the top that some others don’t have, which can help keep your horse more comfortable.
Expert Tips
A half-pad size needs to be based on your saddle size. If it’s too small the edge will sit under the saddle panels creating pressure points. Size your half-pad so that it is longer than your saddle.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Horze Harleigh Sheepskin Rising Pad
Horse parent, Jackie has this to say: “LOVE this half pad. Very high quality, and the ventilation channel is perfect, since my horse really sweats a lot.”
I saw it on Equinavia Horze Harleigh Rising Half Pad – Ventilation Horze |
#12 WeatherBeeta Memory Foam Comfort Horse Half Pad
You may recognize the brand WeatherBeeta for its excellent range of horse blankets. However, they also have some other quality equestrian gear, like this memory foam half-pad.
This is a thick pad that provides great pressure relief and shock absorption at a good price.
Physical Attributes
- Non-slip
- Memory foam
- Soft and breathable material
- Anti-microbial
Sizes and Measurements
- Sizes small, and large
- Small length 19-inches
- Large length 22.5-inches
- Comes in black or white
Benefits & Drawbacks of WeatherBeeta Memory Foam Comfort Horse Half Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Dries quickly if it gets wet in the rain | Some might find it a little too thick |
Helps evenly distribute pressure | |
Anti-slip |
How it Compares to Others and Why
If you want a good half-pad but want to spend less than $100 dollars this is an excellent option. It is much cheaper than the other options but you still get a pad that will do the job you want.
Expert Tips
Remember to keep an eye on wear and replace the pad when it starts losing its shape.
Learn more about memory foam half pads from a saddler fitter here.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About WeatherBeeta Memory Foam Comfort Horse Half Pad
Both Taylor and her horse are really happy with this pad. Here are her comments about it: “Love it! Good quality, it’s nice and thick. My horse really appreciates it.”
#13 LeMieux Lambskin Half Pad
LeMieux is one of my favorite brands. I love their traditional sheepskin half-pad. It is simple, easy to maintain and offers great protection for your horse’s back.
Physical Attributes
- Merino wool underside
- Saddle attachment straps
- Rolled edge
Sizes and Measurements
- Available in dark brown, black, and white
- Comes in small, medium, and large
Benefits & Drawbacks of LeMieux Lambskin Half Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Good price for a wool pad | These pads are pretty thick, so might not suit everyone |
Wool helps regulate temperature and provides excellent cushioning | |
Looks good enough for shows | |
Natural material |
How it Compares to Others and Why
This is a traditional style half-pad and while excellent it doesn’t incorporate the most modern features that you see in some other options.
Expert Tips
If you’re getting a LeMieux pad or any other pad on this list, you will need a suitable saddle pad. I recommend looking at LeMieux’s range of jumping pads that are great for shows and schooling at home.
Learn more about LeMieux wool half pads here.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About LeMieux Lambskin Half Pad
Equestrian tack experts tell you what they think about this lovely half pad here.
#14 Kavallerie 3D Air-Mesh Fleece Half Pad
Gel mesh is one of the better materials used to make half pads for horses. I really like the design of the pad and its features.
The anatomical top line allows you to easily lift the pad into the saddle gullet avoiding unwanted pressure on the spine.
The gel also provides grip, which avoids the saddle slipping thus also helping to prevent rubs. The mesh helps to allow heat trapped under the saddle to escape.
Another great reason to love the gel material is that it does not degrade easily or quickly. This means that it keeps its shape and will not lose its shock-absorbing ability like some other materials.
This Kavallerie saddle pad is flexible and conforms to your horse’s backfilling any gaps created by a lack of muscle or the saddle.
Physical Attributes
- Shock absorbing
- Gel Half Pad
- Fleece lining
- Velcro strap
- Anatomic topline
- Mesh fabric
- Gel holes panels
Sizes and Measurements
- One size
- Comes in white or black
- 23-inches long Top line
- 11-inches flap
- 26-inches length to rear cushion
Benefits & Drawbacks of Kavallerie 3D Air-Mesh Fleece Half Pad
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Lightweight and machine washable | Some people find it too thick |
Helps even out pressure distribution | Might be too big for ponies or small horses |
Keeps saddle in place | Only one size |
Relieves discomfort | |
Helps saddle bridging | |
Gel holes help release heat | |
3-month refund policy |
How it Compares to Others and Why
Kavallerie makes several quality equestrian products. This is one of the best half pads for horses on the market. Compared to others it is one of the more expensive pads.
However, I feel that if you can stretch your budget, it is best not to skimp on the half pad you choose.
A cheap half pad will not provide adequate protection in the long run. They wear out quickly and often do not have the right features to genuinely relieve any of your horse’s back discomfort.
It’s unfortunate that this pad does not come in more sizes, as it will not fit all saddle sizes or horses.
Expert Tips
Always put a half-pad directly under your saddle and on top of the saddle pad. The best saddle pad sizes to use with half-pads are the square jumping pads.
Half pads can affect the fit of your saddle, so it is important to choose wisely. Learn how your saddle should fit from master saddler, Kate Ballard here.
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Kavallerie 3D Air-Mesh Fleece Half Pad
Find out what other equestrians think of this great half pad.
- ✅ HOLDS THE WHOLE SADDLE IN PLACE - It is important to properly tack your saddles before riding. Kavallerie Half Pad can help keep your saddle in place by providing a gel surface that sticks to your saddle and saddle pad to keep your horse tack secured and sturdy.
- ✅ RELIVES HEAT AND DISCOMFORT - With light 3D Air-Mesh, PU foam material, and holes through the added gel padding which allows airflow to regulate heat build-up quickly that causes discomfort to your horses, this half pad is a tacking essential.
- ✅ SHOCK-ABSORBING AND LIGHTWEIGHT - Kavallerie 3D Air-Mesh Half Pad is uniquely designed with added lightweight gel padding that evenly distributes the pressure on your horse’s back relieving pain and promotes healthier and comfortable rides.
- ✅ HELPS IN SADDLE BRIDGING - Provides ultimate fit! whether your saddle is too wide or your horse has a chronic muscle atrophy disease, this half pad is what you need to help fill in the gap and bridge your saddle, a versatile pad that conforms with your horseback and provides extra support.
- ✅ EFFORTLESS MAINTENANCE - Remove hair, dirt and dried sweat with a stiff brush after every use. Machine wash at no more than 30C° after washing then straighten with a piece of cotton fabric. If you aren't satisfied in any way, Kavallerie offers a 3-month refund policy! Be one of the Kavallerians, Grab one for your buddy now!
How to Choose the Best Half Pads for Horses
Choosing the best half pad for horses will depend on your budget, your horse’s needs, your saddle fitting, and your personal preferences.
Do You Need a Half Pad?
This is a question that often has two very strong opinions. Old school equestrian will say that you should never use a half-pad if your saddle fits your horse correctly.
I feel that providing extra protection for your horse’s back is never a bad thing.
However, you do need to consider a few things before picking your pad. If your saddle is narrow or fits your horse like a glove, adding a half-pad can actually cause more harm than good such as increasing pressure.
The best thing to do is to work with your saddle fitter to ensure your saddle will fit well with the use of the pad. Then you have the best of both worlds.
What Half Pad Do You Need?
Take a look at your horse to find what type of half pad is most suitable. Young horses are still developing and will change shape as they begin their riding careers.
For these types of horses, a shimmable half pad is a good option as you can adjust the saddle fit.
Wool is one of my favorite choices, even though it is old-fashioned. The wool keeps its shape under the saddle and creates air pockets which are excellent at absorbing shock. It is breathable and soaks up sweat well.
You can use them on any horse. The downside to these pads is the cost.
Stay away from fleece, even if you think it would make a nice substitute for wool. It won’t. It does not have a good moisture-wicking benefit and does not help even out pressure.
They are pretty poor at absorbing shock as well. Synthetic material fleece just doesn’t work in the same way as the real thing.
Memory foam is a good choice but is not as effective at shock absorption as some other materials as it is limited to as far as it can compress.
Gel is one of the best materials, especially if you want a durable, thin pad. The only issue with these types of pads is that they are heavier than the other materials.
FAQs
To help you decide if getting a half pad is for you, I’ve answered some common questions for you here.
What do half pads do for horses?
Half pads help distribute pressure evenly on the horse’s back. They also help reduce concussions which can lead to soreness. You can also use a half pad to help a saddle fit better and prevent slippage.
Are half pads good?
Yes, half pads are an excellent piece of equestrian gear. But you must make sure to use good materials and that it improves the fit of your saddle. Using a pad wrongly can actually cause harm and not good.
Do horses need half pads?
Old school thought will tell you no. But I feel that if used correctly, it can only benefit the horse making it happier and less likely to suffer discomfort.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve found the half-pad for you and your horse on my guide. Every type is represented here and there are some good value options.
Final Recommendation
My winner is the ECP Air Ride Shock Absorbing Half Saddle Pad because it is made with good materials and comes at a reasonable price.
However, all of the pads here are excellent choices, and if your budget can stretch I would choose any one of them.
- ✅ HOLDS THE WHOLE SADDLE IN PLACE - It is important to properly tack your saddles before riding. Kavallerie Half Pad can help keep your saddle in place by providing a gel surface that sticks to your saddle and saddle pad to keep your horse tack secured and sturdy.
- ✅ RELIVES HEAT AND DISCOMFORT - With light 3D Air-Mesh, PU foam material, and holes through the added gel padding which allows airflow to regulate heat build-up quickly that causes discomfort to your horses, this half pad is a tacking essential.
- ✅ SHOCK-ABSORBING AND LIGHTWEIGHT - Kavallerie 3D Air-Mesh Half Pad is uniquely designed with added lightweight gel padding that evenly distributes the pressure on your horse’s back relieving pain and promotes healthier and comfortable rides.
- ✅ HELPS IN SADDLE BRIDGING - Provides ultimate fit! whether your saddle is too wide or your horse has a chronic muscle atrophy disease, this half pad is what you need to help fill in the gap and bridge your saddle, a versatile pad that conforms with your horseback and provides extra support.
- ✅ EFFORTLESS MAINTENANCE - Remove hair, dirt and dried sweat with a stiff brush after every use. Machine wash at no more than 30C° after washing then straighten with a piece of cotton fabric. If you aren't satisfied in any way, Kavallerie offers a 3-month refund policy! Be one of the Kavallerians, Grab one for your buddy now!
What are your favorite half pads for horses? Please share with us below!
Reference
1. Peachey C. Product Review: Fleeceworks Perfect Balance System in Therawool – Eventing Nation – Three-Day Eventing News, Results, Videos, and Commentary [Internet]. eventingnation.com. [cited 2022 Mar 22]. Available from: https://eventingnation.com/product-review-fleeceworks-perfect-balance-system-in-therawool/
Siun is an all-around animal lover, with a passion for horses. She grew up in the United States, competing in the hunters, equitation, and jumpers. Now living in Ireland, she competes with her own showjumping horses. She is experienced in the care and training of horses, as well as teaching riding lessons. She loves to combine her love for horses with her work. When not working, Siun will be found at the stables, rain or shine.
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