Wither Pads
An integral component to ensure your horse’s comfort during horse riding is a ‘wither pad.’ This pad, roughly large enough to blanket the withers, works to prevent a saddle from exerting excessive pressure on them. Typically, a well-adjusted saddle wouldn’t necessitate the use of a wither pad. Nonetheless, as part of a transitional solution, especially if there’s potential for the saddle to impact the withers when the rider is aboard, a wither pad is indispensable to prevent tenderness. The benefit of a wither pad extends to racing as well, where it’s employed to facilitate a comfortable fit for ultra-lightweight saddles on the horse.
Varieties of Wither Pads
The market offers a variety of wither pads, available mostly in oval shapes, yet a few come in kidney shapes.
Double-Knitted Wither Pads
Among these, the double-knit variants are considered superior, negating the need for stuffing.
Sheepskin Wither Pads
Sheepskin pads also make an excellent choice ensuring comfortable padding and excellent fit.
Foam Plastic Wither Pads
Additionally, manufactures have released foam plastic variants for riders who prefer synthetic options.
However, it’s worth noting that the stuffed versions are generally ineffective. This is attributed to the pads’ construction which under pressure displaces the stuffing. Hence, compromising the protective feature the pad is originally designed to offer.
Weightcloths: Ensuring a Balanced Ride
Weightcloths play an essential part in horse racing and competitive equestrian events where the rules specify a certain minimal weight to be carried. This includes high-stakes show jumping, horse trials, and team cross-country chasing. However, even riders with lesser body weight occasionally use weightcloths during practice sessions as a method to acclimatize their horses to bear heavier loads.
There are mainly two types of weightcloths available: saddle cloth extensions and breastplate extensions. Both have distinct characteristics and are not necessarily interchangeable.
Saddle Cloth Weightcloths
The saddle cloth variety, being the most common type, is designed to lay over the horse’s back, under the saddle, and possesses pockets for holding lead weights. The standard choice of fabric is linen, which is lined with rugged material having leather pockets.
In flat racing, the saddle cloth weightcloth often features a silk lining and pigskin pockets. Also, riders with a lighter bodyweight at events tend to favor weightcloths that are heavier themselves, which helps reduce the necessity to carry excessive lead.
Breastplate Weightcloths
On the other hand, the breastplate pattern of weightcloths is usually preferred more by women riders who often need to carry more weight compared to male counterparts. This specific type situates the weights in front of the saddle, this positioning coinciding with the horse’s center of gravity.
One significant aspect of these weightcloths is the built-in steel frame. It ensures the weight is not exerted directly onto the horse’s withers, optimizing the comfort and safety of your equestrian companion.
Saddle Cloths
A saddle cloth is an essential accessory for horses, placed on their back beneath the saddle, similar to a numnah. However, unlike a numnah, a saddle cloth is neither padded nor specially shaped to fit the saddle. Instead, it’s a straightforward square or rectangular piece of fabric. Its primary purpose pertains to visual appeal, while it also aids in maintaining the cleanliness of the saddle panels.
Materials and Designs of Saddle Cloths
Saddle cloths are typically fabricated from cotton or linen, available in plain white, solid colors, or check patterns. Often, bespoke designs are showcased on saddle cloths, displaying monograms of clubs, regiments, commercial firms, or equestrian teams. Moreover, riders selected to signify their country at equestrian events might feature the country’s flag emblem on their saddle cloths.
Additional Benefits for Horses
Young horses or those that are cold-backed find comfort in having a folded woolen blanket positioned as a saddle cloth beneath the saddle. The warmth provided by the blanket helps the horse stay relaxed, promoting a more enjoyable riding experience for both the horse and the rider.
Saddle Covers: Protecting Your Saddle When Not in Use
Saddle covers are specifically designed to shield saddles when they are not being utilized. These covers offer varying features, ensuring not only the protection but also easy transportation for your saddles.
Tailor-Made and Portable Saddle Covers
Some saddle covers are tailor-made, equipped with handles and zip fastenings for convenient carrying. These bespoke covers ensure a perfect fit, providing optimal protection to your saddle from dust, scratches, and potential damage.
Travel-Ready Saddle Covers
Heavy-duty, corded canvas saddle covers, furnished with brass zips and durable nylon handles, excel when traveling abroad. These sturdy covers are tailored to withstand the rigors of transportation, helping keep your saddle safe and secure throughout your journey.
Waterproof Saddle Covers for Wet Conditions
Waterproof saddle covers prove incredibly valuable during horse shows and equestrian events where the weather can be unpredictable. In wet conditions, these watertight covers safeguard your saddle from moisture damage, preserving its quality and ensuring longevity.
