Numnahs and saddle cloths are fundamental accessories in horse riding, offering comfort for the horse and promoting the cleanliness of saddles. We delve deeper into understanding these saddle companions and their importance in equestrian practice.
Understanding Numnahs
Numnah is the terminological label for a pad designed to be used under a saddle. The primary purpose lies in the absorption of the horse’s sweat, fostering a cleaner, more comfortable riding environment.
Material Considerations in Numnahs
Cotton Quilted or Cotton Fleece Numnahs:
- Daily Use: These numnahs prove beneficial for everyday use due to their soft, absorbent nature. Their lightweight characteristic makes them easy to handle.
- Maintenance: Routine washing ensures they remain in top-notch condition.
Sheepskin Numnahs:
- Aesthetics: These numnahs are exceptionally smart-looking, providing an appealing aesthetic.
- Cautions: However, they can increase sweat production in horses and may be tricky to clean.
Size and Shape Variations
Numnahs are available in three sizes, each designed to accommodate different horse sizes:
- Pony
- Cob
- Full Size
Moreover, numnahs come in various shapes to perfectly match the type of saddle with which they will be used.
Overview of Saddle Cloths or Saddle Pads
When it comes to a rectangular-shaped under-saddle pad, it is typically referred to as a ‘saddle cloth’ or ‘saddle pad.’
Therapeutic Saddle Pads and Numnahs: Prioritising Equine Welfare
In the modern equestrian market, there’s a profusion of ‘therapeutic’ saddle pads and numnahs. These products are created with a blend of natural and synthetic materials and fillings that are designed to enhance horse comfort and health.
The Key Purpose: These materials are intended to alleviate potential injury or discomfort by evenly distributing the rider’s weight and reducing pressure. Some designs also focus on minimizing friction, wicking away sweat from the horse’s back, or even providing a massaging effect as the horse moves.
Popular Choices: One particularly popular variant in this category is the ‘gel pad’ type.
Tack Tips: Choosing the Right Colors for Numnahs and Cotton Girths
Selecting the appropriate colors for numnahs and cotton girths can add a touch of flair to your horse’s appearance while maintaining an elegant, tidy image consistent with equestrian tradition.
Modern Choices: A Palette of Options
In today’s equestrian market, you can find numnahs and cotton girths in a wide array of colors, offering style-conscious horses the chance to express themselves in their preferred hues.
Colors Available:
- Pink
- Blue
- Lime Green
- And many more!
Traditional Elegance: Classic Color Selections
When preparing for a more formal occasion or entering a show, it’s a good idea to adhere to traditional color choices as they exude an understated elegance. These classic colors include:
- Brown
- Black
- Navy
The Timeless Appeal of White:
- Numnahs: White numnahs tend to appear attractive on any horse, irrespective of coat color or pattern.
- Girths: Although white girths are admittedly challenging to maintain in a pristine state, they can add a distinguished look to a grey horse.
By striking a balance between modern expressions of personality and traditional elegance, you can ensure that your horse’s numnahs and girths enhance their overall appearance, aligning with equestrian standards.
Ensuring Equine Comfort: Proper Numnah Placement
Despite having a perfectly fitted saddle, a horse’s comfort can be compromised by improper placement of the numnah, an essential saddle accessory. This article offers insight on the correct positioning and importance of a numnah in horseback riding.
Correct Placement of the Numnah
While a numnah serves a crucial role in equine comfort, its efficacy is determined by its correct placement under the saddle. Careless placement can result in unnecessary pressure and discomfort for the horse.
The correct positioning of a numnah involves:
- Adequate Elevation: The numnah should be well pulled up into the gullet of the saddle, ensuring it is clear from the horse’s backbone.
- Full Coverage: The numnah should cover the whole area under the saddle to provide adequate cushioning.
By properly placing and adjusting a numnah, you can significantly enhance the comfort and safety of your horse during riding. This minor adjustment can lead to major improvements in the horse’s overall riding experience and wellbeing.
| Importance of Numnah | Application Importance |
| Horse Comfort | High |
| Pressure Distribution | High |
| Absorption | High |
