The Essential Western Saddle Pad Fitting Guide

What is a Saddle Pad?

A saddle pad is a blanket or piece of cloth placed under the saddle to absorb moisture, provide cushioning and protect the back of the horse from excessive fatigue. It helps to keep your mount cool, distribute the weight of the saddle and prevent sores. Saddle pad fit is critical in ensuring an enjoyable ride. Taking the time to select a saddle pad that fits properly and placing it correctly will help keep your horse comfortable.

What Size Saddle Pad Do I Need?

Western saddle pad fitting is not complicated if you know what to look for. To determine the correct size, you need to obtain two saddle pad measurements:

• Length: Measure your saddle length from front to back at the longest points.
• Drop: Turn the saddle over to measure from the underside of the saddle. Measure from the center of the saddle to the outermost part of your rigging and, under the seat to the edge of the skirt at the leg. Multiply this measurement by two.

You'll want to make sure that you have at least two inches of pad visible around the perimeter of the saddle to allow for shifting. Following this saddle pad size guide will help you get the proper fit.

How to Fit a Saddlepad

Once you have the correct size saddle pad, it's time to place it on your horse. The Western saddle pad fitting properly is critical for correct saddle placement. Take a few extra minutes to do it right, and your horse will thank you. Before placing the saddle, make sure that your saddle pad is clean because dirt is abrasive and can be painful. The saddle pad fit should leave enough space between the horse's withers and the top of the pad so your fingers can fit underneath.

The saddle pad should be centered on the horse's back and placed over the withers to protect them from the saddle. Make sure the excess material is even all around the saddle. After riding, be on the lookout for uneven sweat patterns as they can indicate that the saddle and pad aren't fitting properly.