How to Choose the Right Saddle Pad A basic guide on how to find the best saddle pad for show jumping. Example image to use http

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Finding the right saddle pad for your horse is a balancing act between functionality and style.

Finding the right saddle pad for your horse is a balancing act between functionality and style. Sure, you can pick any saddle pad that matches your barn colors or outfit, but if it doesn’t fit well and provide comfort to your mount, you’re missing out. There are many different types of show jumping pads available, each with its own function. As with all horse-related gear, it’s important to not sacrifice function for fashion (you have other options to let your personality shine). Here’s some information on how to find the right fitting pad.

Know what the standard colors are for your discipline—a dark saddle pad in dressage, for example, will not go unnoticed by the judges.

  • Know what the standard colors are for your discipline—a dark saddle pad in dressage, for example, will not go unnoticed by the judges.
  • Colorful saddle pads are fun to use in professional and amateur dressage competitions.
  • White is always a safe choice for eventing, show jumping, stadium jumping and hunters since it blends in easily with any horse’s coat color.
  • Saddle pads can add flare to a hunter-jumper course, but be sure to coordinate with your horse’s coat and bridle color.

Make sure it fits. A saddle pad that is too small will be uncomfortable for your horse and won’t protect his back as well as one that properly fits.

‘One of the most important things to consider when buying a saddle pad is how well it fits. A saddle pad that’s too small will not fit your horse as well, and can actually be quite uncomfortable for him. He may try to tell you by tossing his head around or refusing to move forward—if he won’t go forward, there’s something wrong! The best way to make sure your horse is wearing the right sized saddle pad is to take his measurements yourself. This might seem like a daunting task if you’re new at this, but don’t worry! Measure from where the withers stop down along the top line of the shoulder and back, ending just before where the barrel starts curving towards the croup. If your horse is bigger than average, add an inch or two onto that measurement before buying your new saddle pad. Remember: it’s better to buy one that’s too big than one that’s too small!’

Once you’ve determined what you’re looking for in a saddle pad, it’s just a matter of selecting the perfect style and color to give you confidence in the show ring.

Now that you’ve determined what kind of saddle pad fits your needs, it’s time to have some fun and pick out the perfect style and color. Choose a bold pattern or keep things simple with a solid color.

It’s important to remember that *style* is only one aspect you should take into consideration. Some of our most popular styles include:

[INSERT IMAGE OF SADDLE PAD STYLES]

  • The quilted cotton saddle pad (this is not an actual style)
  • The diamond quilted contoured saddle pad (also not real)
  • The all-purpose contoured, half-lined saddle pad (what?)
  • The three-piece close contact square, half-lined saddle pad (nope)

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