8 Best Non-Slip Saddle Pads (Equestrian Review)

Finding the best non-slip saddle pad is a challenge!

I’ve been in your position and have tried more than my fair share of anti-slip saddle pads with varying degrees of success. 

I want to get rid of this headache for you, so I created this guide to my favorite options.

So, let’s get started!

But if you don’t have time to go through the whole list, here’s a quick summary of our top products.

READ MORE: Half Pads With the Best Support

Best 8 Non-Slip Saddle Pads – Review

If you’re here, you are trying to figure out the best non-slip saddle pad for you. And you’re probably a bit overwhelmed!

That’s ok. The choice is huge and just ends up looking like a blur after a while. 

I’ve put together a guide to some of the best options for all types of riders, whether your saddle is English or western.

Let’s take a look.

#1 Weatherbeeta Prime Jump Shaped Saddle Pad (WINNER)

There are lots of things to love about this saddle pad! I particularly like that it does not contain any gel or ‘tackiness,’ which can make the pad hotter on the horse’s [1] back.

However, just because it doesn’t contain sticky features doesn’t mean it is not a non slip English saddle pad. Even though cotton, I’ve found that the pad’s texture stays in place well. 

In addition to not moving when your ride, this pad has several other unique qualities. It is a durable fabric that washes well.

The wither area provides lots of room, so it fits a variety of horses. And the mesh area along the spine helps with breathability and flexibility.

This equestrian saddle pad comes in several fun colors and various shapes to fit both jumping saddles and dressage saddles.

It also comes in an all-purpose shape. Unlike many options, this comes in a size that fits pony saddles.

Physical Attributes

• PVC-covered girth patch
• High wither
• Mesh spine
• D-ring velcro straps
• Girth strap

Measurements and Sizes

• Pony and horse size
• Pony jump is 20-inches long and 19-inch depth
• Horse jump is 22-inches long and 19.5-inch depth
• Pony dressage is 19-inches long and 21-inch depth
• Horse dressage is 20-inches long and 22-inch depth
• Pony all-purpose is 18-inches long and 21-inch depth
• Horse all-purpose is 22-inches long and 24-inch depth

Benefits & Drawbacks of Weatherbeeta Prime Jump Shaped Saddle Pad

Benefits	Drawbacks
Moisture-wicking	Some people find the depth a little short for their saddle.
Breathable
Suits high wither horses
Not overly expensive
Size for pony saddles

How it Compares to Others and Why

If you are looking for the cheapest non-slip saddle pads, this might not fit your budget. However, it isn’t overly pricey either.

The wicking lining helps the pad stay in place without the help of any gel, which makes it stand out from many other options.

It comes in options for dressage riders, jumper riders, and everyday riders.

Expert Tips

Many people use half pads to help protect their horse’s back, but this can affect saddle fit. Take a look at this video from an expert saddle fitter who tackles this question.

What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About the Weatherbeeta Prime Saddle Pad

I’m not the only horse owner that likes this pad. Other riders have said ‘stays in place 24/7’. That doesn’t move ‘even when jumping’ and other great comments about using this pad.

Make sure to also check our best jumping saddle pads review!

#2 Shires Airflow Anti-Slip Saddle Pad

Shires make some pretty cool products, and this is one of my favorite equestrian saddle pads. It contains silicone to give it non-slip properties on both sides. I love the fleece wither protection.

Physical Attributes

• Synthetic fleece withers
• Anti-slip silicone surface
• Billet straps
• Reinforced girth area
• Girth loops

Measurements and Sizes

• Cob size has a 19.5-inch spine and 17-inch drop
• Full size has a 22-inch spine and 22-inch drop

Benefits & Drawbacks of Shires Airflow Anti-Slip Saddle Pad

Benefits	Drawbacks
Great non-slip action	Expensive
Breathable	Limited color choice
Durable

How it Compares to Others and Why

Like some of the others, this pad is quite breathable. The silicone isn’t uncomfortable for the horse but does affect the moisture-wicking capabilities.

Expert Tips

Choosing the right equestrian saddle pad is sometimes frustrating. Did you know that some are better than others?

Find out about the do’s and don’ts of saddle pads from the experts at SaddleFit4Life and Schleese Saddlery

What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About the Shires Airflow Anti-Slip Saddle Pad

Here are just a couple of the comments equestrians have about this saddle pad: “Works well to stay in place” and “This pad is awesome, no slip on my wide draft.” [3]

CHECK: Best Gaited Saddle Pad

#3 Tough-1 Tacky Air-Flow Cutback Square Pad

If you ride western and want something that won’t move around under your saddle, take a look at this interesting breathable saddle blanket. It is covered in tacky material all over.

Physical Attributes

• Airflow panels
• Vented PVC rubber
• Cutback withers

Measurements and Sizes

• One size
• 30-inches x 30-inches

Benefits & Drawbacks of Tough-1 Tacky Air-Flow Cutback Square Pad

Benefits	Drawbacks
Lightweight	A little on the thin side
Made in the USA	Likely to need another pad on top
Prevents saddle slippage

How it Compares to Others and Why

This is suitable for western saddles. It isn’t the right shape for an English saddle. It is an average price.

ALSO READ: Best Saddle Pad for Sore Back

Expert Tips

Did you know that the sweat patterns underneath your saddle can indicate a problem with the fit? Find out more in this video.

What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About the Tough-1 Tacky Air-Flow Cutback Square Pad

Users of this pad find it easy to clean, but many have also found it great at keeping their saddle from moving too much. Dolly is one of these equestrians and had this to say “Great anti-slip, horses seem comfy, and saddle stayed put.”

#4 Weaver Leather GettaGrip Saddle Pad

Sticking with western saddle options, look at this grippy saddle cloth. It is simple and practical at an affordable price.

Physical Attributes

• Neoprene
• Ventilation

Measurements

• 31-inches by 33-inches

Benefits & Drawbacks of Weaver Leather GettaGrip Saddle Pad

Benefits	Drawbacks
Stain-resistant	Comes in one color
Non slip western saddle pad	Hair can get stuck to it
Dries quickly

How it Compares to Others and Why

This is a simple western saddle pad with no fancy designs and isn’t made with a natural fabric. It is suitable as an underpad as it is not thick. Not ideal for English saddles.

Expert Tips

Weaver makes some excellent western riding products such as the best western saddle pad for older horse. The experts there put together this helpful video to guide you in choosing a saddle cloth.

What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About the Weaver Leather GettaGrip Saddle Pad

Debby is one of the many satisfied users. Not only did she find that the pad doesn’t build up a sweat, but she also says that it ‘keeps the saddle in place.’

CHECK: Best Western Saddle Pad for Trail Riding

#5 Best Eventing Saddle Non-slip pad: ECP Grip Tech

I’ve found this a fantastic choice for a great pad to put under your eventing saddle as your jump cross country.

Physical Attributes

• Contoured fit
• Non slip compression foam
• Brushed cotton underside

Measurements and Sizes

• 21.5 x 19-inches

Benefits & Drawbacks of ECP GripTech Eventing Saddle Pad

Benefits	Drawbacks
Great ventilation	Grippy material is only on top
Shock absorbing
Moisture-wicking

How it Compares to Others and Why

Unlike the other options, this equestrian saddle pad is specifically designed for use under your saddle during the cross-country phase. It is an excellent choice for event riders.

Expert Tips

There’s no better way to learn everything about this pad than from the brand itself. Check out this video.

What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About the ECP Grip Tech Eventing Pad

Users like this pad. Check out this review from an eventing rider.

#6 Ovation Coolmax Slip-Grip CC Pad

I love the cut of this pad. It is ideal for schooling at home or showjumping. 

Physical Attributes

• Diamond quilting
• Coolmax lining
• Non-slip gripper top

Measurements and Sizes

• One size

Benefits & Drawbacks of Ovation Coolmax Slip-Grip CC Pad

Benefits	Drawbacks
Stylish shape	Lack of color choices
It helps keep your saddle in place

How it Compares to Others and Why

This equestrian saddle pad is designed for jumping saddles, and it won’t suit every type of saddle. It is affordable and around the exact cost of some of the others.

Expert Tips

Why is your saddle pad slipping? This is a common question that equestrians face. Hopefully, the expert advice in this video will help shed some light on this problem for you.

#7 Performance Fusion Grip Jump Saddle Pad

Designed explicitly for English riders who use jumping saddles, this is an intriguing option that I think is good.

Physical Attributes

• Anti-slip silicone
• 3D Air Motion mesh
• WickAway stay-dry lining
• Girth guard

Measurements and Sizes

• One size

Benefits & Drawbacks of Performance Fusion Grip Jump Saddle Pad

Benefits	Drawbacks
Comes in some fun colors	A little pricey
Great cut for jumping saddles
Grip on both the top and bottom
Fleece withers

How it Compares to Others and Why

This is one of the best non slip saddle pads English riders should consider. It is pretty similar to my winner, the Weatherbeeta, except it is more expensive.

Expert Tips

A quality saddle pad is essential, but a good saddle fit is vital for your horse’s well-being. Horse vet, Hilary Clayton, has this excellent tip for riders: “The dirty areas show where the saddle contacted the horse’s back; compare sides and front/back.

Dry spots on an otherwise sweaty pad indicate areas of such high pressure that the blood supply to those sweat glands was cut off.”

What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About the Performance Fusion Grip Jump Saddle Pad

This saddle pad offers non-slip features, but it also fits many different horse shapes. Laura, who has a horse with a hard-to-fit shape, has this to say ‘favorite pad for a round horse with no withers!’

#8 TechQuilt High Profile Non-Slip Show Pad

When showing in hunter or equitation classes, turnout is crucial. You need to use a specific saddle pad, but sometimes they slip! I’ve been there and know how annoying it is to find a nice fleece show pad.

Here is a solution to keeping your look pristine and tidy.

Physical Attributes

• Anti-friction ETC™ fabric
• Joey Girth Slot
• Classic Medallion fleece
• Rolled edge

Measurements and Sizes

• Comes in sizes 16 and 17

Benefits & Drawbacks TechQuilt High Profile Non-Slip Show Pad

Benefits	Drawbacks
Fast drying	Only suitable for horse shows
Nice thickness	Expensive
Non-slip

How it Compares to Others and Why

Unlike the other saddle pad options, this one is made specifically for English saddles and competing in certain classes at shows. It is also more expensive than many of the others.

Expert Tips

Did you know that you should always get on your horse using a mounting block? Equine vet Hilary Clayton points out the following: “Mounting from the ground causes highly asymmetrical pressure on the left and right sides of the horse’s back”

How To Choose A Non-Slip Horse Saddle Pad

As riders use different saddles and participate in various disciplines, it is necessary to consider what you need in your non-slip saddle pad. So let’s take a closer look to help you narrow down what you need.

1-Features To Consider

Non-slip pads come incorporated into a regular saddle pad, while others are thin and are meant to be used with another pad. You will have to decide which type you want.

Do you want a grippy pad that also has excellent breathability? Your location and local climate will help you decide if this is a better choice.

2-What Riding Activities You Do

First, decide what your needs are. Do you need a pad to compete in equitation classes, show jumping, schooling at home, ranch work, or trail rides?

3- Saddle Pad Budget

How much you can afford to spend will hugely affect what saddle pad you can get. I advise you get the best quality one your budget will stretch to. A good-quality pad will last longer and is more likely to keep your horse comfortable.

FAQs

I’m sure you have some more questions, so let’s look at what some other equestrians have asked me.

Conclusion

I hope you’re well on your way to finding the best non-slip saddle [2] pad for you and your horse. My favorite is my winner, the Weatherbeeta, but they are all great and will suit a variety of equestrians.

What are your favorite non-slip saddle pads? Please share below!

References

1. Horse Breed Info | List of Horse Breeds | Types of Horse Breeds with Pictures | petMD. Petmd.com. Published 2019. https://www.petmd.com/horse/breeds
2. Peham C. he effects of different saddle pads on forces and pressure distribution beneath a fitting saddle. Pubmed.