A saddle pad sits between saddle and horse to keep the saddle clean, wick away sweat, and add a touch of cushioning. The common confusion is between a fitted numnah (shaped to the saddle) and a half pad (a smaller cushioning layer, often sheepskin). The most important thing to understand: a pad cannot correct a saddle that doesn’t fit — at best it manages minor pressure, at worst it makes a tight saddle tighter. This guide ranks the best and explains what each does.
Numnah or half pad? A numnah is the everyday choice — a full, saddle-shaped pad that protects and wicks. A half pad is a smaller cushioning layer (often sheepskin or foam) used on top of or instead of a numnah for extra comfort. Use a numnah for daily riding; add a half pad if your horse needs more cushioning — but never to plug a saddle-fit gap.
The pads, ranked
- Excellent fit that stays put and doesn't rub
- Breathable, sweat-wicking lining
- Durable and holds shape through many washes
- Huge range of colours and sizes
- Pricier than basic cotton pads
- Cushioning is moderate — add a half pad if needed
- Natural sheepskin cushions and regulates temperature
- Reduces friction and pressure points
- Premium quality that lasts for years
- Shims available for minor fit adjustment (with a fitter)
- Expensive
- Real sheepskin needs careful washing
- Genuine bargain — buy several to rotate
- Soft cotton lining, machine washable
- Fine for everyday schooling and hacking
- Wide colour range
- Less durable and shaped than premium pads
- Minimal cushioning
Side by side
| Pad | Price | Type | Best for | C&F Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mattes Sheepskin Half Pad | $200 | Half pad | Cushioning | 9.1 |
| LeMieux ProSport Numnah | $75 | Numnah | Everyday | 9.0 |
| Shires Performance | $30 | Numnah | Value | 8.4 |
| Thinline Half Pad | $130 | Half pad | Shock absorption | 8.8 |
| Saddle pad (cotton, generic) | $20 | Numnah | Spares | 7.9 |
What to skip
Using a thick pad to fix a tight saddle. This is the biggest mistake. Adding padding under a saddle that’s already snug makes it tighter — like wearing thick socks in tight shoes. Fix the saddle fit; don’t pad over it.
Corrective claims without a fitter. Shimmable pads can help fine-tune fit, but only under guidance from a qualified saddle fitter. Used blindly, they can create new pressure points.
Non-wicking materials. Cheap synthetic linings trap heat and sweat, leading to rubs and sores. Choose breathable, wicking fabrics or natural sheepskin.
How to choose
For daily riding, the LeMieux ProSport numnah is the best all-rounder — well-fitted, breathable, and durable. If your horse needs extra cushioning, a Mattes sheepskin half pad is superb. On a budget, the Shires Performance pad lets you buy several to rotate. Just remember a pad protects and wicks — it doesn’t fix saddle fit.
Make sure your saddle fits first, then complete your tack with the right girth. New to it all? See the beginner rider gear checklist.