Do I really need a saddle pad? This is a question you may ask.  It is true that saddle seat horses are often ridden without pads but it is also true that it can rub the skin of your horse raw.  It is a good idea to figure out the right pad to suit your horse, your discipline, the occasion, and the workout. Use the chart below to help decide what pads to use.   What you need may vary but below are what are normally highly suggested.


Regular Back:
Summer Time:
Jumping- medium weight shaped fleece pad
Hacking- light/medium weight quilted baby pad
Dressage- light/medium weight quilted dressage pad
Winter Time:
Jumping- thick all purpose pad + non slip pad
Hacking-  medium weight all purpose pad + shaped fleece pad
Dressage- fleece or wool lined dressage pad
Fall/spring:
Jumping- breathable cotton pad + non slip pad
Hacking- medium weight all purpose pad
Dressage- medium weight dressage pad

Sensitive Back:
Summer Time:
Jumping- breathable cotton pad
Hacking- light weight quilted baby pad + shaped fleece girth
Dressage- medium weight dressage pad
Winter Time:
Jumping- medium weight all purpose + half pad/wither relief pad
Hacking- thick all purpose pad + light weight shaped fleece pad
Dressage- thick quilted dressage pad + light weight shaped fleece pad
Spring/Fall:
Jumping- light weight all purpose pad + half pad/with relief pad
Hacking- thick all purpose pad
Dressage- light weight dressage pad + medium weight shaped fleece pad

Showing:
Regular back:
Jumping/HUS- doubled faced shaped fleece pad
Dressage- Light/medium weight dressage pad
Sensitive Back:
Jumping/HUS- light weight shaped fleece pad + half pad/wither relief pad
Dressage- Thick quilted dressage pad


Don't forget!
*To wash saddle pads frequently to remove dirt/hair/sweat
*Only use completely dry pads, never damp
*Use the girth and billet straps to prevent slipping