Stylish Saddle Pads & Saddle Blankets
Essential gear for your horse
A well-fitting saddle pad is an essential part of your horse's basic equipment – not just for aesthetic reasons, but especially for functional ones. It serves as padding between the horse’s back and the saddle and reliably protects the sensitive skin from chafing. At the same time, it ensures that sweat is effectively absorbed – crucial for maintaining a comfortable skin climate under the saddle. Particularly practical is the wide range of cuts tailored to the specific needs of dressage, show jumping, or eventing. This way, you're guaranteed to find the perfect version for your riding discipline. But a saddle pad can do more than just be functional: with color, pattern, and shape, you can make a stylish statement and give your riding outfit a personal touch. Especially if you value a polished appearance, you won’t want to miss this. Ergonomic cuts also ensure an optimal fit without slipping. Everything stays in place – even during intense movement.
Whether classic or modern, subtle or bold – you'll find a wide selection of colors and well-known brands that perfectly match your personal style. Take a look, compare, and discover your new favorite model. Your horse will thank you for it!
How Saddle Pads and Saddle Cloths Differ
There are saddle pads, saddle cloths, and numnahs.
A saddle pad is highly functional and is always used in combination with a saddle cloth or numnah. It often serves specific purposes, such as correcting the saddle position. You can find more information and a wide range of pads in our correction pad category.
Saddle cloths are cut in the shape of the saddle and are almost invisible when placed underneath. The shape follows the outline of the saddle and must match its base form closely.
Numnahs (also known as square saddle pads) usually have a more rectangular shape and are available in many different colors and styles, made from a variety of materials such as lambskin, cotton, or felt.
Whether you choose a saddle cloth or a numnah, always look for absorbent and breathable materials. Stitching patterns also vary and can influence the wearing comfort for your horse. Ideally, pads should feature small quilting to offer better shape retention. Make sure the pad lies flat, without wrinkles, so the saddle can rest securely and doesn’t slip. Additionally, numnahs should be anatomically shaped and provide withers clearance to avoid pressure points and ensure a smooth fit.
What Matters Beneath the Saddle
If you care about your horse's well-being, the right saddle pad makes a big difference. Pads made of cotton are especially breathable, gentle on the skin, and easy to care for – ideal for daily use in the stable. On hot days, technical fabrics like Coolmax or mesh are recommended, as they allow better airflow and ensure an optimal microclimate under the saddle.
If you're looking for even more functionality, go for pads with a waffle texture or innovative 3D mesh surfaces. These materials regulate moisture especially well. For sensitive horse skin, it's important to use skin-friendly materials to prevent chafing and pressure marks. Premium models also feature shock-absorbing layers that improve pressure distribution and promote a more stable contact between horse and saddle.
A high-quality black saddle pad combines functionality with timeless elegance while enhancing your horse's comfort during every training session.
Size Guide and Saddle Compatibility
You need to choose a saddle pad that fits both your saddle and your horse. The pad must match the saddle size. If it's too small, the saddle will rest on the seams and cause pressure points. Depending on the brand, saddle pad sizes may vary. Some are categorized by horse type – Warmblood, Pony – as well as discipline – All-purpose, Jumping and Dressage. Others label their pads as Full, Cob, or Pony.
The saddle type – whether it's a dressage, jumping, or all-purpose saddle – is also essential. Depending on the saddle’s shape, you'll need a dressage pad, a jumping pad, or an all-purpose pad designed specifically for your discipline.
You can usually rely on the following standard pad types:
- S: Show Jumping – suitable for your jumping saddle
- D/DR: Dressage – suitable for your dressage saddle
- VS: All-Purpose – suitable for your general-purpose saddle
- VSS: All-Purpose Jump Focus – fits both your all-purpose jumping saddle and jumping saddle
- VSD: All-Purpose Dressage Focus – fits your all-purpose dressage saddle or trail saddle
- WB or Full: Warmblood
- P or Cob: Pony
- SH: Shetland Pony
Good to Know Topic: Saddle Pads
The Perfect Addition to Your Top Layer
A saddle pad fits your saddle and horse properly when it is large enough so that the saddle does not rest on the seams or extend beyond the edges. But it should also not be too large or too thick. If your saddle fits your horse well, a thin pad is usually sufficient – a thick one can quickly make the saddle too tight and cause pressure. Your pad should also match the shape of your saddle – including back length and flap length. It should be anatomically shaped and easy to position so that the withers and spine remain free and the pad doesn’t cause pressure. Moreover, the pad should lie centered under the saddle and must not slide backward, shift sideways, or form wrinkles before or after girthing.
Style-Conscious in the Saddle
With the right choice of color, you can create real highlights under the saddle – for example, with a pink saddle pad that boldly makes a statement. Color-coordinated designs not only provide a harmonious look, but also ensure a stylish appearance in everyday riding and at competitions. If you prefer a classic look, a red saddle pad is a strong yet timeless choice, while a dark green pad adds elegance with subtlety. For a fresh pop of color, a green pad is a great option and pairs especially well with modern accessories.
Many seasonal collections reflect current trends and color palettes, giving you regular inspiration for your riding outfit. Especially popular: combining saddle pads with matching bandages, brushing boots, or a coordinated fly veil – this creates a perfectly styled overall look where fashion meets function. After all, who says practical gear can’t look great too?
Easy to Care For and Long-Lasting
Modern saddle pads made from machine-washable materials
In everyday riding, it's not just about looks - easy care matters too. That's why many modern saddle pads are made from machine-washable materials, making cleaning much more convenient. If you choose a white dressage pad, you'll especially benefit from colorfast fabrics that retain their brilliance even after many washes. Durable textiles and carefully finished seams ensure that your pad stands up to even intense use. Models with antibacterial properties offer extra hygiene - ideal if you train frequently or your horse is sensitive to sweat residue. To help your saddle pad maintain its shape, it's worth checking the included care instructions - they’ll help preserve both fit and function. If you value long-lasting quality, you’re sure to find the perfect low-maintenance option in our collection.
Comfort, Design, and Protection Combined
A saddle pad for horses serves several important functions: it protects the animal, preserves the saddle, and creates a harmonious appearance while riding through its cohesive overall look. Available in a wide variety of colors, materials, and shapes, you’ll find exactly the model that meets your individual needs with us.
Breathable and non-slip features actively support your horse’s well-being, whether you’re focused on everyday riding, training, or competitions. From simple and functional to glamorous and eye-catching, the selection is vast and offers the perfect design for every occasion. High-quality craftsmanship meets modern design and innovative features that make all the difference.
Find the perfect saddle pad online now at Reitsport Schockemöhle and combine comfort, style, and protection optimally for your horse.