Ever watched a beautiful horse with a high wither and felt a pang of sympathy? Maybe you’ve seen the saddle digging in, or the horse looking uncomfortable. It’s a common problem! Finding the right saddle for a horse with prominent withers is like finding the perfect shoe; it needs to fit just right.
Choosing the wrong saddle for a high-withered horse can cause real problems. It can pinch the withers, making the horse sore and affecting its movement. It can also make riding difficult and unsafe. This topic is relevant because many horses have this conformation. Owners need help understanding what to look for and avoid when buying a saddle.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know. You’ll learn what features to look for in a saddle designed for high withers. You’ll also get tips on how to measure your horse and choose the correct size. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to find a comfortable and safe saddle for your high-withered friend. Let’s get started!
Our Top 5 Saddle For High Withered Horse Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Saddle For High Withered Horse Detailed Reviews
1. Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad – Helps with Saddle Bridging
Rating: 9.1/10
The Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad is a game-changer for horse owners! This English saddle pad is designed to help horses with various back issues. It can help with saddle bridging, sore backs, swayed backs, and high withers. Kavallerie offers four different gel pads: Seat Saver, Middle Riser, Rear Riser, and Front Riser. They are made to fit different needs. This pad is perfect for eventing, schooling, dressage, and jumping.
What We Like:
- Provides comfort and support for your horse’s back.
- Reduces uneven pressure from the saddle.
- Made with gel and has many holes to prevent overheating and sweating.
- Keeps the saddle from moving.
- Easy to clean with just water.
- Can be used for all types of riding events.
What Could Be Improved:
- No cons found.
The Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad is a great buy for any horse owner. This saddle pad will help keep your horse comfortable and happy during rides.
2. Southwestern Equine OrthoRide Premium Made in USA All Wool Build up
Rating: 8.7/10
The Southwestern Equine OrthoRide Premium Saddle Pad is a top-notch choice for horse owners. It’s made in the USA with all-wool and designed for comfort and performance. This classic contour saddle pad helps solve saddle fit problems and protect your horse. It’s great for high-withered horses and young horses. This pad is designed to make riding more enjoyable for both horse and rider.
What We Like:
- SOLVES saddle fit problems. You won’t need to buy a new saddle.
- Great for horses with high withers. It stops saddle rubs.
- Perfect for young horses. It helps their shoulder muscles grow.
- Absorbs shock under the horn. It protects your horse during activities.
- PORON-RXD under the saddle bars absorbs up to 90% of shock.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price could be a concern for some buyers.
This saddle pad is a great investment for any horse owner. It provides comfort, protection, and helps with saddle fit. You and your horse will love this saddle pad!
3. Weaver Equine 32″ x 32″ Contoured Acrylic Horse Saddle Pad
Rating: 9.0/10
The Weaver Equine 32″ x 32″ Contoured Acrylic Horse Saddle Pad is built for comfort and protection. This western saddle pad is made with high-quality materials. It keeps your horse cool and comfortable during rides. The pad is designed to fit well and help prevent saddle roll. It is a great choice for riders who want a durable and stylish saddle pad for their horse.
What We Like:
- The acrylic material dries quickly. It also wicks away moisture to keep your horse cool.
- A soft fleece bottom and felt filler provide comfort for your horse. This helps relieve pressure.
- The contoured shape reduces saddle roll. It keeps the saddle in place.
- It absorbs shocks and protects your horse from rubbing. This helps distribute weight evenly.
- The pad is durable. It comes in attractive colors.
What Could Be Improved:
- There is no mention of how the pad holds up with rigorous use.
- The price is not listed.
This Weaver Equine saddle pad is a good choice for riders. It offers comfort and protection for your horse. The pad is made to last and look good.
4. Dura-Tech E-Z View Wither Relief Horse Saddle Pad
Rating: 9.0/10
The Dura-Tech E-Z View Wither Relief Horse Saddle Pad is made for your horse’s comfort. It helps horses with high withers. This saddle pad is designed to relieve pressure. It uses special materials to keep your horse happy. It has a non-slip bottom to keep the saddle in place. This pad also has a spot for numbers and inserts.
What We Like:
- This pad provides great pressure relief. The raised wither design is helpful for high-withered horses.
- The material is soft and gentle. The hypo-allergenic fleece is comfy for your horse.
- The non-slip bottom keeps the saddle secure. This helps during rides.
- You can add your own inserts. The opening along the spine is easy to use.
- It has a display for numbers. This is great for events.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description does not mention if the pad can be used for all saddle types.
In conclusion, the Dura-Tech E-Z View Wither Relief Horse Saddle Pad is a good choice for horse owners. It is a useful pad for horses with high withers.
5. Showman English or Western Black Felt Horse Wither Relief Saddle Pad
Rating: 8.6/10
The Showman English or Western Black Felt Horse Wither Relief Saddle Pad is designed to help your horse. It is made of black felt. You can use it for both Western and English saddles. The pad is 3/4″ thick. It also has nylon straps to keep it in place. The pad measures 9″ x 12.5″. It is made to provide comfort for your horse, especially around the withers.
What We Like:
- It is made with a wither relief design. This helps relieve pressure on the horse’s withers.
- The pad is made of durable black felt.
- It comes with nylon straps for easy use.
- It works for both English and Western saddles.
- The pad is a good size for many horses.
What Could Be Improved:
- The pad is only available in black.
- Some riders might want more thickness.
This Showman saddle pad is a good choice for horse owners. It is useful for providing comfort for your horse during riding.
Saddle Up! Your Guide to Saddles for High-Withered Horses
Finding the right saddle for a horse with high withers can be tricky. This guide helps you make the best choice. We’ll cover key features, materials, and what makes a great saddle.
Q: What are the main Key Features?
A: The most important feature is wither clearance. The saddle must sit high enough above the horse’s withers. This prevents rubbing and pain. Look for a gullet that is wide enough. Also, make sure the bars of the saddle are shaped to fit your horse’s back. Consider the panel design. It needs to distribute weight evenly. A good saddle also allows for freedom of movement for the horse.
Key Features to Look For
- High Wither Clearance: This is the most important thing! The saddle needs space above the withers. Look for saddles with a high gullet and a well-designed tree.
- Gullet Width: The gullet is the space between the bars of the saddle. It needs to be wide enough for the horse’s withers. A professional saddle fitter can measure your horse.
- Tree Shape: The tree is the frame of the saddle. It determines how it sits on the horse’s back. Choose a tree that matches your horse’s shape. Consider a “hoop” tree or a tree designed for high-withered horses.
- Panel Design: Panels are the padded parts that sit against the horse’s back. They should distribute weight evenly. Look for panels that are well-flocked or have a good air flow.
- Adjustability: Some saddles have adjustable gullets or panels. This allows you to customize the fit as your horse changes.
Important Materials
The materials used in a saddle affect its comfort and durability.
- Leather: Leather is a common material. It’s strong and long-lasting. High-quality leather is more comfortable for the horse and the rider.
- Synthetic Materials: Synthetic saddles are often lighter and easier to care for. They can be a good option.
- Tree Materials: Trees can be made from wood, fiberglass, or synthetic materials. Wood trees are traditional. Fiberglass and synthetic trees are lighter and can be more flexible.
- Flocking: Flocking is the material used to fill the panels. Wool flocking is traditional and allows for adjustments. Synthetic flocking is also used.
Q: What materials are best?
A: Leather is a great choice for durability. Synthetic materials can be lighter and easier to clean. Wool flocking in the panels allows for adjustments. Make sure the tree is strong and fits your horse.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Quality of Materials: Use good leather. High-quality trees are important. Proper flocking is also key.
- Craftsmanship: A well-made saddle will last longer and fit better. Check the stitching and overall construction.
- Fit: A saddle that fits your horse correctly is crucial. Get help from a saddle fitter.
- Brand Reputation: Research different brands. Read reviews to see what other riders say.
- Price: You usually get what you pay for. A more expensive saddle often uses better materials. It also has better craftsmanship.
Q: How do I know if a saddle fits my horse?
A: A saddle fitter can help you. They will assess your horse’s back and the saddle’s fit. The saddle should sit level. It should not pinch or rock. You should be able to slide your hand under the panels.
User Experience and Use Cases
Riding a horse with a poorly fitting saddle can be uncomfortable. It can also cause pain for the horse. A good saddle improves the riding experience. It allows the horse to move freely.
- Comfort: A well-fitting saddle keeps both the horse and rider comfortable.
- Performance: A comfortable horse performs better. The rider can also focus on riding.
- Types of Riding: Saddles are available for different types of riding. English saddles are often used for jumping. Western saddles are for trail riding.
Q: What are the different types of saddles?
A: English saddles are used for jumping, dressage, and general riding. Western saddles are used for trail riding, roping, and other Western disciplines. There are also specialized saddles for other activities.
Q: How do I care for my saddle?
A: Clean your leather saddle regularly. Use leather cleaner and conditioner. Store your saddle properly. Keep it away from extreme heat or cold.
Q: How can I measure for a saddle?
A: You can use a flexible measuring tape to measure the horse’s withers. A professional saddle fitter can measure your horse’s back. They can also help you choose the right size saddle.
Q: What is a gullet?
A: The gullet is the channel under the saddle. It runs along the horse’s spine. It’s the space between the two bars of the saddle. The gullet width needs to fit your horse’s withers.
Q: What happens if the saddle doesn’t fit?
A: A poorly fitting saddle can cause back pain, rubs, and sore spots. The horse may become resistant to riding. It’s important to get a saddle that fits correctly.</p
Q: Where can I find a saddle fitter?
A: Ask at your local tack store. You can also search online for saddle fitters in your area. Look for someone with experience.</p
Q: Can I adjust the saddle myself?
A: Some saddles have adjustable gullets or panels. You may be able to make small adjustments. It is best to have a professional make any major adjustments.</p
Q: What is the difference between wool and synthetic flocking?
A: Wool flocking is traditional and can be adjusted. Synthetic flocking is more consistent. It does not compress as much as wool.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.