{"id":13713,"date":"2022-09-07T11:39:32","date_gmt":"2022-09-07T15:39:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/equestrianbootsandbridles.com\/?p=13713"},"modified":"2022-12-07T10:59:41","modified_gmt":"2022-12-07T14:59:41","slug":"best-non-slip-saddle-pads","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/equestrianbootsandbridles.com\/best-non-slip-saddle-pads\/","title":{"rendered":"The 7 Best Non-Slip Saddle Pads for 2022"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When you’re learning about horse tack<\/a> and the world of riding, you may learn that a saddle fits on a saddle pad<\/a> or a numnah (a term used in the U.K.), though the two are not exactly the same. You would never dream of throwing a saddle onto your horse’s back without adding a saddle pad to improve their comfort and prevent rubbing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the past, a saddle pad was often just a cowboy’s old blanket, which was used over the horse’s back and then used at night to sleep on. Today, with new technology and fantastic materials, you get saddle pads that can fix back problems, stop saddles from slipping, and improve your horse’s level of comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

So in this article, we’re talking about what to look for in a non-slip saddle pad, and then giving you our recommended brands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. We only give honest recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    What Is a Saddle Pad?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Okay, so let’s get specific. A saddle pad<\/a> is essentially any padded square that is placed between the horse’s back and their saddle.<\/em> The function of a saddle pad is to keep the saddle clean and stop the saddle from rubbing the horse’s shoulders and withers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    However, the design of saddle pads has improved and become much more innovative over the years. For example, you can have a saddle pad made to help raise your saddle and support your horse’s back. With a specialized saddle pad, you can even counter conformational problems such as a mild swayback horse or a horse with asymmetrical shoulders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    And of course, saddle pads can help stop your saddle from slipping on the horse and improve the general fit of the saddle overall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    How a Non-Slip Saddle Pad Works<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Saddle slippage is any rider’s worst fear. When a saddle moves too far forward, it can press on the horse’s withers, causing pain and defensive behavior from the horse<\/em> (such as rearing or bucking) to relieve the pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    A saddle that slips backward is just as dangerous; even a slight backward movement can put pressure on the horse’s back and ribs, leading to pain and inflammation of the kidneys. In extreme cases, either type of slippage will lead to the saddle not being able to take the rider’s weight and can lead to dangerous accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    A non-slip pad works by providing a textured and padded surface that sticks to the horse’s coat, muscles, and ribs. When the non-slip pad is connected to the saddle, it means the saddle can’t slip backward or forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Usually, a non-slip pad is attached to the saddle using straps that pass through the billet straps. The pads have straps that the girth passes through, securing the saddle in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    What Is the Difference Between a Traditional and a Non-Slip Saddle Pad?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    A traditional saddle pad is a basic piece of layered fabric that the saddle sits on. These pads absorb sweat, and they keep the saddle clean. A traditional saddle pad dries quickly, is thin, and prevents minor slippage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    A non-slip pad is made from a material that provides the perfect fit, allowing the saddle to fit in the specifically designed area of the horse’s spine. Non-slip saddle pads tend to conform better to the horse’s shape, in part because of the gel components that are often used. Other components that help a non-slip saddle pad grip include foam, silicone, and fleece.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Check out this guide for more about the different types of English saddle pads.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Why You Would Need a Non-Slip Saddle Pad<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    A non-slip saddle pad is ideal for those who pursue equestrian sports such as jumping<\/a> and dressage<\/a>, and they’re even a good choice for Western riding<\/a>. If your horse has a conformational issue (such as being barrel-shaped with low withers) or they have lost weight recently, you may need to use a specialized saddle pad to help improve your saddle fit and ensure your horse is comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Older horses that have lost their topline may also require a saddle pad to help protect them against saddle pressure. A saddle pad will protect the horse’s sensitive areas from pressure and abrasion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    What to Look for in Non-Slip Saddle Pads<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    There are a few considerations to keep in mind when choosing which saddle pad is best for you and your horse:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Material<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    You can get saddle pads that come with foam, gel, and a range of other composite materials. The type of material used and the manufacturing process will determine whether the design will last and whether it will be successful in keeping your horse comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Some equestrians still believe that a foam saddle pad can’t be as comfortable as a more traditional sheepskin one. At the end of the day, you know yourself and your horse best!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Durability<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Not all saddle pads are created equal, and some will last longer than others. Buying from a high-quality reputable brand will increase the likelihood that your saddle pad will last you many years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Shape<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The type of saddle<\/a> you ride with will determine the shape of the saddle pad. Your horse’s topline will also determine whether a low cut saddle pad will work or if you need a type that is cut away from the withers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Purpose<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Depending on what you need the saddle pad to do, you may need some extra features, such as riser pads, which are made from thick foam you can lift and correct the saddle fit. Consider getting the expert advice of a professional saddle fitter to help you find the best possible fit for your horse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Budget<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    As a rider, your budget is always going to be a consideration. Buying a high-quality saddle pad can save you money in the long run, but you don’t want to sacrifice your horse’s other needs, like food!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Aesthetic & Design<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Saddle pads come in different designs and colors, so choose one you like the look of!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    7 Best Non-Slip Saddle Pads<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Now here are our recommendations for the best non-slip saddle pads in each category:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Best Non-Slip Saddle Pad for Competition Riding<\/strong>: TechQuilt Dressage<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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    While there are many different forms of competition riding, dressage<\/a> is perhaps one of the most technical, where so much as a wrinkle in the saddle pad can change the way the horse moves and performs. Because of this, the TechQuilt Dressage Saddle Pad Non-Slip Lining<\/u><\/a> is an excellent choice for dressage riders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Pros<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n