Ever watched your horse shift uncomfortably under the saddle? Maybe you’ve noticed a sore back after a ride? If your horse has high withers, you’re not alone! Finding the perfect saddle pad can be a real challenge. The wrong pad can cause pain, pressure points, and even long-term damage. This is especially true for horses with prominent withers, the bony part at the base of their necks.
Choosing the right Western saddle pad for a high-withered horse is super important. Standard pads often pinch or rub, causing discomfort and affecting your horse’s performance. There are so many pads out there, with different shapes, materials, and features. It can feel overwhelming to know where to start! We’ll explore the common problems and the best solutions to keep your horse happy and healthy.
In this post, we’ll break down the key features of a great high-wither saddle pad. You’ll learn what to look for, what to avoid, and how to measure your horse for the perfect fit. We’ll also cover different pad materials and their benefits. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose a saddle pad that keeps your horse comfortable and allows you both to enjoy your rides! Let’s dive in and find the perfect pad for your high-withered friend!
Our Top 5 Western Saddle Pad For High Withered Horse Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Western Saddle Pad For High Withered Horse Detailed Reviews
1. Southwestern Equine OrthoRide Premium Made in USA All Wool Build up
Rating: 8.9/10
The Southwestern Equine OrthoRide Premium Saddle Pad is made for your horse. This USA-made saddle pad helps with saddle fit. It’s designed to protect your horse from saddle rubs. It also helps young horses with their muscles. This pad is great for many riding styles, including team roping and barrel racing. It is a 32 x 31 inch pad in a pretty Dessert Rose color.
What We Like:
- Helps fix saddle fit problems before you buy a new saddle.
- Perfect for horses with high withers. It stops saddle rubs.
- Good for young horses. It helps their shoulder muscles grow.
- Absorbs shock. It protects your horse under the horn.
- Uses PORON-RXD. This material absorbs a lot of shock.
What Could Be Improved:
- We don’t have any cons for this product.
This saddle pad is a good buy. It can help your horse feel better and ride better.
2. Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad – Helps with Saddle Bridging
Rating: 8.9/10
The Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad is designed to help your horse. It is made for English saddles and helps with many common issues. This includes saddle bridging, sore backs, swayed backs, and high withers. Kavallerie offers different gel pads to meet your horse’s needs. They have options like the Seat Saver, Middle Riser, Rear Riser, and Front Riser. This saddle pad is great for eventing, schooling, dressage, and jumping.
What We Like:
- Provides comfort for your horse.
- Reduces uneven pressure on your horse’s back.
- Made with soft but strong materials to keep the saddle in place.
- Has gel holes to prevent overheating and sweating.
- Easy to clean with just water.
- Works for all types of riding, like dressage and jumping.
What Could Be Improved:
- Could offer more color options.
The Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad is a great choice for horse owners. It offers comfort and support for your horse during any activity.
3. Weaver Equine 32″ x 32″ Contoured Acrylic Horse Saddle Pad
Rating: 8.9/10
The Weaver Equine 32″ x 32″ Contoured Acrylic Horse Saddle Pad is a top-notch choice for horse owners. This western saddle pad is made to keep your horse comfortable and protected. It’s designed with quality materials to last. The pad helps with pressure relief and shock absorption. It comes in a stylish Burgundy/Navy color, making it a great addition to your tack room.
What We Like:
- The acrylic material dries fast and wicks away moisture, keeping your horse cool.
- A soft fleece bottom and felt filler provide comfort for your horse.
- It has a contoured shape that prevents saddle roll.
- The pad absorbs shocks and distributes weight evenly.
- It comes in attractive colors.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some riders might prefer a wider range of color choices.
- The price may be a bit higher than some other pads.
This saddle pad is a solid investment for your horse. It’s built to last and keep your horse comfortable during rides. You will be happy with this purchase.
4. Kavallerie High Western Shock Absorption Horse Saddle Pad 32” x 32”
Rating: 8.7/10
The Kavallerie High Western Shock Absorption Horse Saddle Pad is made for comfortable rides. This 32” x 32”, 1.4″ thick saddle pad is designed to protect both you and your horse. It uses a combination of felt, cotton, and cowhide. This saddle pad is a good choice for western riding.
What We Like:
- The pad fits your horse well. It creates a good buffer between the saddle and the horse.
- It helps protect both the rider and the horse. The shock-absorbing design makes rides more comfortable.
- The cotton material helps keep your horse cool. It reduces heat and moisture.
- It protects your saddle from dirt and wear. This helps your saddle last longer.
- The cowhide is easy to clean. You can brush off dirt or use a damp cloth.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description could include more details about the specific types of felt and cowhide used.
- More information about the warranty would be helpful.
This saddle pad offers many benefits for both horse and rider. It is a good option for anyone looking for a comfortable and protective western saddle pad.
5. Classic Equine BioFit Correction Saddle Pad 30″ x 30″
Rating: 9.2/10
The Classic Equine BioFit Correction Saddle Pad 30″ x 30″ is designed to help your horse. It offers extra support and comfort. This pad is made by Classic Equine and features a unique design. It uses a contoured shape and a special wedge. The wedge helps fill any gaps under the saddle. The pad has a felt bottom with a shock-absorbing wool felt center.
What We Like:
- The contoured shape fits the horse’s back well.
- The wedge placement gives extra support.
- The wool felt center helps absorb shock.
- It’s made by Classic Equine, a trusted brand.
- The felt bottom is durable.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price can be a little higher than other saddle pads.
Overall, this saddle pad is a good choice for horses needing extra support. It is a well-made product that can help improve your horse’s comfort.
Western Saddle Pads for High-Withered Horses: A Buying Guide
Finding the right saddle pad is important. If your horse has high withers, you need a special pad. This guide will help you find the best one.
Key Features to Look For
You need a saddle pad that fits. Here are some important things to consider:
- Wither Clearance: This is the most important feature. The pad needs a high wither cut-out. This keeps pressure off the horse’s spine. Look for pads with a good amount of space at the top.
- Spine Channel: A deep spine channel is also helpful. This channel runs down the middle of the pad. It prevents pressure on the spine.
- Thickness: The pad should be thick enough to absorb shock. This protects the horse’s back. The thickness you need depends on your horse and riding style.
- Shape: The pad should match your saddle’s shape. Most western pads are square or rectangular. Make sure the pad is long enough to fit under your saddle.
- Material: Choose a material that is breathable and comfortable for your horse.
Important Materials
The material of the saddle pad matters. Here are some common materials:
- Wool Felt: This is a popular choice. Wool felt is known for its shock absorption. It also wicks away sweat. It’s a great choice for many riders.
- Synthetic Felt: This is a less expensive option. Synthetic felt is durable. It is also easy to clean.
- Neoprene: Neoprene is waterproof. It is often used for the bottom of the pad. It can help with shock absorption.
- Foam: Some pads use foam. Foam can be very effective at absorbing shock.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of a saddle pad affects its performance. Here’s how to tell:
- Construction: Look at the stitching. It should be strong and even. Poor stitching can cause the pad to fall apart.
- Materials: High-quality materials last longer. They also offer better protection for your horse.
- Fit: A well-fitting pad is essential. It distributes weight evenly. A poorly fitting pad can cause sores.
- Durability: Check the pad’s durability. Some pads are made to last for years. Others may wear out quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the pad. This helps you choose the right one.
- Trail Riding: For long rides, you need a pad that provides comfort. A thick pad with good shock absorption is important.
- Arena Work: For everyday riding, a durable pad is key. You want something that can handle wear and tear.
- Horse’s Needs: Consider your horse’s needs. A horse with sensitive skin may need a pad with a soft lining.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a high-withered horse?
A: A high-withered horse has a prominent backbone at the withers. This means the area where the shoulder blades meet is higher than the rest of the back.
Q: Why do I need a special pad for a high-withered horse?
A: A regular pad can put pressure on the withers. This can cause pain and sores. A special pad has extra space to avoid this.
Q: How do I measure my horse for a saddle pad?
A: You can measure your horse’s back. Measure the length from the withers to the end of the saddle area. Measure the width across the back.
Q: What is a wither relief cut-out?
A: This is a special shape at the top of the pad. It provides extra space around the withers. This prevents pressure.
Q: How thick should my saddle pad be?
A: The thickness depends on your horse and riding. A thicker pad offers more shock absorption. A thinner pad might be better for close contact.
Q: How do I clean a wool felt saddle pad?
A: You can brush off dirt. You can also spot clean with a mild soap and water. Let it air dry.
Q: How often should I replace my saddle pad?
A: Replace your pad when it is worn out. Look for signs of wear and tear. Check for compression, or if the pad is no longer effective.
Q: Can I use a saddle pad with a breast collar?
A: Yes, most saddle pads work with a breast collar. Make sure the pad doesn’t interfere with the breast collar’s fit.
Q: Where can I buy a high-withered saddle pad?
A: You can buy them at tack stores and online. Many websites sell saddle pads.
Q: How do I know if the pad is fitting correctly?
A: Check the fit after you ride. The pad should sit evenly on the horse’s back. There should be no pressure points.
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.