Saddle Pads

Professional Saddle Pads for English and Western Horse Riders 

Equine Care All Purpose English saddle pads are designed to keep your horse comfortable, protected, and supported during every ride. Whether you ride English or Western, our collection includes breathable, shock-absorbing saddle pads built for daily schooling, trail riding, jumping, dressage, and all-purpose riding.

Each Horse saddle pad is made with durable quilted materials, moisture-wicking linings, and cushioning layers that help reduce pressure across your horse’s back while improving saddle stability and overall comfort. From contoured all-purpose English saddle pads to full-coverage Western riding pads, every option is built for long-lasting performance and reliable fit.

Materials and construction

Our saddle pads for horses are built from a durable, diamond-quilted polyester shell that resists wear and holds its shape, over a shock-absorbing core of layered foam and polyfill that cushions pressure and reduces strain on the back. 

Linings are chosen for airflow: the quilted shock-absorbing pad uses a soft, sweat-wicking textured backing, while the full-size pad features a honeycomb mesh underside for maximum breathability on longer rides. 

Practical details matter too, from billet straps and girth loops that hold the pad in place, to reinforced double-stitched seams and a non-slip backing that keep it stable and hard-wearing. Quilted polyester suits daily riding because it cleans easily and keeps its structure far better than thin felt or unlined pads.

Types of Saddle Pads

All-Purpose Saddle Pads

All-purpose saddle pads are designed for riders who participate in a variety of activities, including flatwork, schooling, light jumping, and everyday riding. Their versatile shape fits most all-purpose English saddles, making them a popular choice for riders who want one reliable pad for multiple disciplines. These horse saddle pads provide a balance of comfort, breathability, and shock absorption, making them ideal for regular use.

Dressage Saddle Pads

Dressage saddle pads feature a longer, straighter cut that mirrors the shape of a dressage saddle. This design provides proper coverage beneath the saddle panels while maintaining a clean, professional appearance in the arena. Many dressage riders prefer breathable saddle pads with moisture-wicking linings to keep horses comfortable during longer training sessions and competitions.

Jumping and Close-Contact Saddle Pads

Jumping and close-contact saddle pads are shaped to fit forward-cut saddles commonly used for jumping, hunter, and eventing disciplines. These pads are designed to reduce movement beneath the saddle while providing shock absorption during takeoffs and landings. Lightweight materials and contoured designs help maintain close contact between horse and rider without sacrificing comfort.

Half Pads

Half pads are placed between the saddle and a standard saddle pad to provide additional cushioning and support. Riders often use half pads to improve saddle fit, add shock absorption, or help relieve pressure on sensitive areas of the horse's back. Available in materials such as foam, gel, fleece, and sheepskin, half pads are a popular choice for horses that require extra comfort during work.

Western Saddle Pads

Western saddle pads are generally thicker and larger than English saddle pads to support the increased surface area and weight of Western saddles. Commonly made from wool, felt, fleece, or modern shock-absorbing materials, they help distribute pressure evenly across the horse's back while providing comfort during long rides, ranch work, trail riding, and performance events. Many Western pads also include contoured shapes or shim pockets for a more customized fit.

Trail Riding Saddle Pads

Trail riding saddle pads are built for comfort during long hours in the saddle. They typically feature breathable materials, moisture-wicking linings, and shock-absorbing layers that help reduce fatigue for both horse and rider. Riders who spend extended periods on trails often choose durable saddle pads that provide reliable cushioning and temperature control throughout changing riding conditions.

How do I choose the right size all-purpose English saddle for my horse and myself?

Pad size should match both your saddle and your horse. Run three quick checks:

• Coverage: Pad should extend about 1 to 2 inches beyond the saddle on every side. The quilted shock-absorbing pad fits most 16 to 18 inch English saddles, while the full-size pad runs roughly 26 inches wide for extra coverage on larger frames.
• Horse build: Pony and cob sizes suit smaller frames, full size fits most horses, and an extra-full or warmblood cut suits broad backs, drafts, and longer saddles.
• Discipline shape: Match an all-purpose, dressage, jumping, or Western cut to your saddle.

Why a Good Saddle Pad Matters 

A quality saddle pad does more than sit beneath the saddle. The right pad helps distribute pressure evenly, absorb shock during riding, wick away sweat, and protect your horse’s back from rubbing and discomfort.

Riders use saddle pads to:

• Improve saddle stability and fit
• Reduce pressure points and friction
• Absorb concussion during riding
• Keep horses cooler and drier
• Support comfort on long rides
• Protect both the horse and saddle

Whether you need breathable saddle pads for summer riding or shock-absorbing saddle pads for everyday schooling, choosing the right option helps improve comfort and performance for both horse and rider.

Saddle Pads for Sensitive Horses and Everyday Riding 

For horses with sensitive skin or a tendency to rub, look for even padding, smooth seams, and a breathable lining that prevents heat build-up, paired with a contoured high-wither shape that keeps the spine clear. For riders in the saddle every day, durability matters as much as comfort, so choose a pad that holds its quilting and shape through frequent washing. The quilted shock-absorbing pad is a dependable everyday choice, while the full-size pad adds extra coverage and a reinforced, trimmed finish for horses that need more protection.

How to Wash, Clean, and Store Your Saddle Pads

After each ride, brush off loose hair and dried sweat. The all-purpose and quilted shock-absorbing pads can be machine washed on a gentle, cool cycle with a mild detergent; avoid harsh detergents and fabric softener, which clog the breathable fibres. The full-size pad, with its embroidered trim, should be hand washed only, with no bleach, machine washing, or tumble drying. Air dry every pad away from direct heat or sunlight, then store it flat or loosely folded in a dry, ventilated space, never damp, to prevent mildew and keep the padding springy.

Shop All Purpose English Saddle Pads at Equine Care

Equine Care designs its own range of English and Western saddle pads, built around comfort, durability, and honest value. Every pad is made to protect your horse's back ride after ride, with breathable, shock-absorbing construction and finishing that stands up to regular use.

Find the right all purpose English saddle pad to support your horse’s health, enhance your riding experience, and care for your tack with confidence.

FAQ's

What are saddle pads made of?

Most quality saddle pads use a quilted polyester shell over a shock-absorbing core of foam and polyfill, with a breathable, sweat-wicking lining. Western pads more often use wool, felt, or fleece. The combination keeps your horse comfortable and the pad durable for daily riding.

Are saddle pads machine washable?

Many are. Equine Care all-purpose english saddle pads and quilted shock-absorbing pads can be machine washed on a gentle, cool cycle with a mild detergent, then air dried. Some pads, such as the full-size pad with embroidered trim, are hand wash only, so always check the care label first.

How do I clean and store a saddle pad?

Brush off hair and sweat after each ride, wash only when needed, and air dry away from direct heat. Store the pad flat or loosely folded in a dry, ventilated place, and never put it away damp, to avoid mildew and keep the padding springy.

How do I choose the right saddle pad size?

Pick a pad that extends 1 to 2 inches beyond your saddle on all sides, then match it to your horse's build and your saddle's discipline. Pony and cob sizes suit smaller frames, full size fits most horses, and warmblood cuts suit broad backs. If you are unsure, size up rather than down.

What are the best saddle pads for horses with sensitive skin?

Choose soft, evenly padded pads with a breathable, moisture-wicking lining and a contoured fit that keeps the spine clear. Smooth seams and even shock absorption reduce rubbing and pressure on sensitive backs.

Who makes saddle pads?

Equine Care designs its own equestrian saddle pad range focused on durability, comfort, breathability, and everyday riding performance.