Dressage Saddle Pad Performance

A saddle pad is a shape-fitting fabric which is placed below the saddle.

The main function of the saddle pad is to protect the horse from chafing and wounds and to make it more comfortable for the horse to carry the saddle. It also helps to transport sweat away from the horse. Nowadays, the saddle pad is also used as a fashion accessory and there is a large selection on the equestrian market with different colors, patterns and designs.

Equestrian Stockholm offers a large assortment of exclusive saddle pads. We offer both dressage saddle pads and jumping saddle pads as well as saddle pads for ponies in different models and colors.

• If your saddle is 14,5 inches or larger, we recommend choosing a size Full saddle pad.
• If your saddle is smaller than 14,5 inches, we recommend choosing size Pony in jumping saddle pads and size Cob in dressage.
• If you have an Icelandic horse, our Cob style saddle pads fit perfectly!

A saddle pad is adapted to the design of the saddle. A saddle pad for jumping is therefore adapted to fit a jumping saddle, a dressage saddle pad for a dressage saddle, and an all-round saddle pad for an all-round saddle.

There are also different sizes of saddle pads. To know how to measure which size of an ES saddle pad is right for your horse or pony, we refer to our size guide which you can find under each product.

The main difference lies in the material and how they handle moisture and temperature.

IQ Cool Comfort saddle pads: These are made with a technical quick-dry material that helps absorb sweat and dry quickly. They are designed to keep your horse cool and comfortable, especially during intense training or in warm and humid conditions. IQ Cool Comfort pads are a great choice for warmer weather or more demanding rides where your horse tends to sweat more.

Bamboo saddle pads: Bamboo-lined saddle pads are made from a natural material known for its moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties. The fabric is very soft and helps keep your horse dry, fresh, and comfortable over time. Bamboo pads are ideal for everyday riding, offering all-round comfort and temperature regulation throughout the year.

Make sure that the saddle pad is the right size for your saddle and that it’s positioned correctly on the horse's back. Also make sure that the saddle pad straps are sufficiently strapped in.

If the saddle pad still slides backwards, you can try using an anti-slip pad or another type of pad that helps the saddle pad stay more stabilized against the saddle.

Wash your saddle pad in the washing machine (30 degrees Celsius).

Fasten all velcro straps and fold the saddle pad inside out to maximize the effectiveness of washing on the dirty side and reduce wear on the metal tray.

Feel free to use a laundry bag. Avoid fabric softener and bleach and tumble dry.

To avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your saddle pad by washing it too often, it’s always good to brush the underside of the saddle pad after riding and hanging it to dry if the horse has become sweaty.

When the horse sheds, it’s especially important to brush off fur that has stuck to the saddle pad. Equestrian Stockholm’s saddle pad has a quick-dry function that keeps the pad dry during the riding session and fresher for a longer period of time.

No.

After washing, you should air dry the saddle pad by letting it hang dry. This way, your saddle pad will last longer.