The word ‘numnah’ hailing from India, subtly translates to ‘saddle pad.’ It is a delicate layer positioned between the horse’s back and the saddle, which aims to augment comfort and provide additional cushioning for the horse.
Understanding the Purpose of a Numnah
In an ideal scenario, where a saddle is accurately fitted and stuffed, the requirement of a numnah should be extraneous. However, its use often triggers overheating, potentially leading to discomfort in the horse’s back. In circumstances where cleanliness is compromised, a numnah can induce soreness or contribute to skin diseases. Apart from these health concerns, an additional layer beneath the rider can also affect the riding dynamics, deviating from the original design principles of modern saddles by increasing the distance between the horse and the rider.
It is noteworthy that a numnah, if used persistently over time, such as during hunting, could potentially be more detrimental than beneficial. As the horse oscillates between sweating and cooling throughout the day, the use of a numnah could exacerbate the overheating of the back and heighten the chances of skin chafing. Rubber based numnahs are particularly notorious in this respect. Conversely, modern synthetic materials are usually more adaptive, facilitating better airflow to the back.
The Right Time to Use a Numnah
Despite the potential risks, there are scenarios where a numnah proves to be beneficial. For instance, when multiple horses are using the same saddle, a numnah can effectively alleviate the potential discomfort caused due to the saddle being unable to accommodate all the horses perfectly. This holds especially true for the region around the withers.
In scenarios where a horse is newly transitioning from a pasture and is still supple, saddle induced discomfort on the pressure points along the back can be a common issue. Soreness, especially under the cantle and along the horse’s sides can be mitigated with the use of a numnah. A secondary solution can be a regular back bath with a saline solution to harden and condition the skin.
During horse racing, where lightweight saddles are used, a numnah is indispensable. Numnahs used in these scenarios are typically made of thin, cloth-covered foam or felt, the purpose of which is to protect the horse’s back from chafing caused by the jockey’s boots.
Maintenance of Numnahs for Optimal Use
In a generic context, numnahs are cleaner alternatives to saddle panels, making them easier to maintain. However, this should not eliminate the practice of regular cleansing of saddle panels to ensure optimal horse health and comfort.
Fitting: The Cornerstone of Numnah Use
Numnahs, or saddle pads, are meticulously shaped to match the contours of the saddle they are used with, enhancing the comfort and protection it provides to a horse. These shapes span from dressage to hunting, from general-purpose to race and race-exercise. Each numnah, tailored slightly larger than the saddle, ensures an optimal fit to enhance the horse’s comfort. It’s noteworthy that the size of the numnah should be compatible with the size of the horse. Typically, you’ll find three size categories for readymade numnahs: horse, cob, and pony.
Methods of Attachment
How you attach a numnah to the saddle falls into three broad categories, each with its unique features: strap and buckle, loop, and pocket.
The strap and buckle model fixates onto the girth straps on either side of the saddle, above the buckle guards. It is secured in front of the panels which enables the user to fit it without removing the buckle guards. However, the buckle component can be slightly bulky and sometimes, with this method, along with the loop type, the numnah might shift away from the withers.
The loop type is arguably the most favoured among the three. Here, the straps host a loop on each end which slips onto a girth strap on either side. This necessitates the removal and reattachment of the buckle guard each time the numnah is fitted. The straps employed here are crafted from either leather or strong elastic material.
Lastly, the pocket numnah. This type encompasses fabric pockets which snugly fit over the saddle panels on either side, beneath the girth straps. While this offers a more secure fit, the pocket numnah introduces extra bulk beneath the rider’s legs compared to the other two methods.
Varied Materials and Colours
Numnahs aren’t limited to function alone – they are designed in an array of materials and colours, including some rather vibrant ones that add a dash of colour to your horse riding experience!
Sheepskin Numnahs: A Classic Choice
Once considered the most prevalent type, sheepskin numnahs are now being replaced with alternative materials, primarily due to the higher costs associated with sheepskin.
Crafting Custom Sheepskin Numnahs
Authentic sheepskin numnahs can be tailored to suit an individual’s specific requirements. Typically, they are crafted from two sheepskins and stitched together along the back. These numnahs can either be unlined or lined with linen or thin panel hide.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Caring for sheepskin numnahs can be slightly challenging, as the cleaning process requires extra attention. To clean them, you’ll need to wash the numnah by hand in warm, soapy water, ensuring a thorough rinse, followed by reshaping the numnah before allowing it to dry. In the case of unlined numnahs, it’s crucial to comb out the knots while still slightly damp. The interior should then be treated with warm glycerine oil to maintain its suppleness and longevity.
Durability for a Lifetime
With proper care and maintenance, a sheepskin numnah has the potential to last a lifetime, making it a lasting investment for those willing to invest the time and effort required to clean and preserve it.
Synthetic Numnahs
Today’s market offers a wide range of synthetic numnahs, catering to varying needs and budgets. One cost-effective and highly efficient option is the linen-covered plastic foam numnah. Superior to the now outdated sorbo rubber variety, this type neither overheats nor irritates the horse’s back. However, keep in mind that nylon-covered foam numnahs can potentially cause discomfort, as they draw on the horse’s back.
Faux Sheepskin: An Appealing Alternative
As the price of real sheepskin numnahs continues to rise, synthetic sheepskin has emerged as a popular substitute. Synthetic sheepskin numnahs offer several notable benefits, including their inherent stretchiness and non-slip properties. Some versions even incorporate sweat-resistant girth panels to mitigate chafing. Coupled with a yielding, textured fleece, these numnahs adapt well to the topography of a horse’s back, even those with prominent spines or withers.
Design and Fabrication
Typically, synthetic numnahs feature a quilled pattern design. While they are not exceptionally thick, they excel in absorbing sweat, enhancing the comfort and performance of the horse. It’s also worth noting that some faux sheepskin numnahs are made of cotton instead of synthetic materials, offering an additional option for those who prefer natural materials.
Woollen Weave Numnahs
Woollen weave numnahs, characterized by wool interwoven into a fabric backing, bring together the advantages of natural resilience and lasting durability. These numnahs showcase the inherent strength of wool while providing a comfortable and protective layer for your horse.
Moisture Management and Comfort
Key to the appeal of woollen weave numnahs is their excellent moisture absorption capability, particularly beneficial during extended rides or workouts. Thanks to the wool being directly woven into the fabric, these numnahs are adept at drawing away sweat or moisture from the horse’s back, keeping them comfortable and less prone to irritation or chafing. This makes woollen weave numnahs a choice worth considering for all horse riders from casual hobbyists to competitive equestrians.
Felt Numnahs
Felt numnahs are particularly suited to horses with back issues or skin troubles, offering relief while still enabling riders to keep them in work.
Adaptability for Skin Concerns
A horse suffering from conditions such as warbles could benefit from a custom-made felt numnah. One option is cutting a hole in the felt to alleviate pressure on the affected area, helping the healing process and allowing the horse to keep working without discomfort. This makes felt numnahs an excellent choice for horses that require a tailored solution for sensitive or injured spots.
Comfort, Thickness, and Maintenance
While felt is generally thin, it retains its shape, preventing uncomfortable flattening. For those seeking a thicker option, custom-made felt numnahs are available, although they may come at a higher price. Additionally, felt numnahs are easy to wash, making them a convenient option for maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for the horse, which is essential for their well-being and performance.
The Use of Numnahs: Considerations and Best Practices
Leveraging a numnah can greatly enhance a horse’s comfort, but it is crucial to remember that it is not a solution for a poorly-fitting saddle. Nor should it be used to rectify improper stuffing, except as a temporary measure.
The Importance of a Well-Fitted Numnah
An argument against using numnahs revolves around their potential to overheat the horse’s back, which could eventually result in soreness. Therefore, it becomes pivotal to purchase a numnah that fits well, promotes ventilation, and aligns with the horse’s physiology.
Cleanliness and Comfort
To provide lasting comfort, a numnah must be kept meticulously clean and soft. Neglecting this aspect can lead to the numnah irritating the horse’s back, negatively affecting their comfort and performance.
Aesthetic and Functional Fit
Aesthetically speaking, a numnah should equally extend around the saddle’s edge. However, notably more crucial is that it should comfortably contour the shape of the horse’s back. Thus, both aesthetic harmony and functional fit should be considered when choosing the right numnah for your horse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numnahs
Q: What is a numnah, and why is it used?
A: A numnah is a type of pad placed under a horse’s saddle to provide comfort and protect the horse’s back. It helps in reducing friction between the saddle and the horse’s skin, absorbing sweat, and cushioning the impact of the rider’s weight.
Q: How often should I clean my numnah?
A: Ideally, you should clean your numnah after each use to maintain its hygiene. Accumulated dirt and sweat can irritate your horse’s skin, leading to discomfort or even injury. A clean numnah also lasts longer!
Q: What materials are numnahs made from?
A: Numnahs are typically made from natural materials like wool, cotton, or felt. Each material has its own pros and cons. For instance, wool numnahs are warm and absorbent, while cotton ones are light and breathable.
Q: Can a numnah fix a poorly-fitting saddle?
A: No, a numnah can’t fix a poorly-fitting saddle. It’s meant to provide comfort and protect the horse’s back, but it can’t correct issues related to saddle fit. If your saddle is not properly fitted, it’s best to get expert advice on how to correct this.
Q: Can numnahs cause overheating in horses?
A: Yes, poorly designed or thick numnahs can cause a horse’s back to overheat, which might lead to soreness or discomfort. This is why it’s crucial to choose a numnah made from breathable materials and ensure it fits your horse well.
Q: Can I use multiple numnahs at once?
A: Generally, using one well-chosen, well-fitted numnah should suffice. Stacking multiple numnahs isn’t recommended as it could affect saddle fit and might increase the risk of overheating your horse’s back.
Q: How should a numnah fit on a horse’s back?
A: A numnah should conform to the shape of your horse’s back and the saddle. It should project an equal distance around the edge of the saddle without any bunching or excess material.
Q: How can I customize my numnah for a horse with skin problems?
A: In cases where the horse has a sensitive area due to skin problems, you can modify a numnah – like cutting a hole in the area, to relieve pressure on the spot. However, this should be done carefully to avoid causing further discomfort.
Q: How long does a numnah last?
A: The lifespan of a numnah depends on the quality of the material, how often it’s used, and how well it’s maintained. Regular washing and proper storage can noticeably extend its lifespan.
Q: What’s the difference between a numnah and a saddle pad?
A: While both serve a similar purpose, the key difference lies in their shape. Numnahs are designed to mimic the shape of the saddle, while saddle pads are typically rectangular and larger, offering more coverage.
