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9 Best Saddle Pad For High Withers
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Saddle Pad For High Withers
Choosing the right saddle pad for a horse with high withers is important not just for comfort, but for the horse’s health and freedom of movement. A well-chosen pad will prevent soreness, rubbing, and pressure, and help your saddle fit better. Before buying, it’s important to understand your horse’s conformation, how your saddle fits, and what kind of riding you do. With high-withered horses, a pad that accommodates their shape will ensure comfort and avoid potential injury.Wither ClearanceWither clearance refers to the space that the saddle pad provides over the horse's withers, which are the bony protrusions between the neck and back. This is crucial for high-withered horses because insufficient clearance can lead to pressure and chafing, causing discomfort or even sores. Pads generally come with standard, moderate, or high wither contours; for high-withered horses, you should opt for a pad specifically labeled as providing high wither clearance, which will be cut higher and may be shaped to lift off the withers entirely. Make sure the pad, when in use, does not settle down onto the withers under the weight of you and your saddle.
Pad Thickness and DensityPad thickness and density determine how much cushioning the pad will provide as well as how well it can protect the horse’s back from uneven saddle pressure. Thinner pads (below 1 inch) may suit horses with well-fitting saddles and minimal back issues, whereas medium (around 1 inch) or thicker pads (over 1 inch) offer more shock absorption, which is important if your saddle doesn’t fit perfectly or if your riding involves lots of impacts. However, an overly thick pad can make a saddle that already fits well too tight, so always match pad thickness with saddle fit and your horse’s needs.
MaterialSaddle pads come in a variety of materials such as wool, felt, foam, gel, or synthetic blends, and each has its own advantages. Wool and felt conform to the horse’s back over time and wick moisture well, which can reduce rubbing. Foam and gel pads offer great shock absorption but may not breathe as effectively. Synthetic fabrics are often easier to clean and lighter to handle. Think about how much you ride, how much sweat your horse produces, and how easy you want pad care to be when picking a material.
Shape and ContourThe shape and contour of the saddle pad should closely match the shape of both the saddle and your horse’s back, especially for those with high withers. Contoured pads are cut to rise up over the withers and then curve back down, preventing pressure and enhancing comfort. Straight-cut or square pads can create pressure points on high-withered horses. If your horse has very pronounced withers, a deeply contoured or cutback design is often best.
Length and CoverageThe pad length should be in sync with your saddle and horse’s back; a pad that is too short may shift, while a pad that is too long may restrict movement or create excess bulk. Measure your saddle from front to back and add a small buffer on each side so the pad extends slightly past the edges without being excessive. For high-withered horses, adequate coverage along the spine is needed to avoid contact and friction. Choose a pad that offers enough spine coverage but still allows the horse to move freely.
Breathability and Moisture ManagementHigh-withered horses often need pads that are breathable and manage moisture well to prevent overheating and skin issues where the pad sits closest to the skin. Pads with materials that wick sweat and allow airflow, such as perforated foams or woven wools, help keep the horse dry and comfortable. If you ride in warm climates or for long durations, prioritize saddle pads designed for ventilation and quick drying.