Saddle Pads, Half Pads & Saddle Fit: What You Need to Know

From sheepskin half pads to memory foam risers and every gel pad in between, saddle pads have become a staple in many tack rooms. Riders often ask:
"Do I need a half pad?"
"Will this help my saddle fit better?"
"Is it OK to use a riser?"

The truth is, while pads can be helpful in certain situations, they’re not a fix for poor saddle fit — and in some cases, they can do more harm than good.

Let’s break down the facts.

The Purpose of a Saddle Pad

At its core, a saddle pad or numnah is designed to:

• Protect the saddle from sweat and dirt

• Offer minor shock absorption

• Provide a clean, consistent surface between horse and saddle

If your saddle fits well, a simple, well-shaped pad made of breathable material is often all you need.

What About Half Pads and Risers?

Half pads — especially those made from sheepskin, foam or gel — are often used to:

• Adjust balance (e.g. front or rear risers)

• Provide cushioning for horses with sensitive backs

• Temporarily fill in minor asymmetries or muscle loss

But here’s the important bit... adding bulk under a saddle changes how it fits. Even a 10mm pad can lift the saddle off the horse’s back just enough to create bridging, pressure points, or instability — particularly if the saddle wasn’t fitted with that pad in mind.

Pads Are Not a Shortcut

It's a common misconception that you can use a half pad to "make" a saddle fit better. In reality, using the wrong pad can:

• Distort the fit by lifting the saddle away from where it should sit

• Create pressure points if only part of the pad carries the load

• Mask serious issues, like bridging or rocking

• Lead to back discomfort or muscle atrophy over time

As a qualified saddle fitter, I always assess saddles with the pads you plan to ride in — because the moment you add or remove a half pad, you're effectively altering the fit.

When Pads can Help

There are valid, appropriate uses for half pads, especially when used under guidance:

• During rehab or rehab transitions where the horse’s shape is changing

• On horses with visible muscle loss or asymmetry that’s being actively managed

• In temporary saddle situations (e.g. young horse, short-term use)

• To adjust balance in a well-fitting saddle that needs a very slight tweak

In all cases, it's best to work with a saddle fitter to choose the right pad and ensure it works with your saddle — not against it.

Our Best Advice

• Always use the same pad you were using when the saddle was fitted

• Avoid layering multiple pads unless advised by a fitter

• Use corrective pads as a short-term tool, not a permanent fix

• Invest in good-quality materials — breathable, contoured and shock-absorbing

• Don’t be afraid to ask for advice — we’re here to help

Need Help Choosing the Right Setup?

If you’re unsure whether your saddle works with your current pad setup, or if you’re adding a half pad during a trial, we offer online consultations to help assess the combination you’re using.

We’ll give honest, professional advice — so you can ride knowing your horse is as comfortable as possible.