What Is a Shires Half Pad?

What Is a Shires Half Pad?

A shires half pad is a saddle cloth that sits between your horse’s back and the saddle, providing cushioning and shock absorption to prevent pressure points. They are available in a range of different materials and designs, each suited to specific equestrian needs and purposes.

While saddle fit is primarily the responsibility of professional saddle fitters, a well-chosen shires half pad can also correct a minor saddle imbalance and improve comfort and performance in many horses. The correct saddle balance is crucial to the health and safety of your horse, but a variety of factors can affect how evenly the weight of the rider is distributed across the horse’s back. The shape of the horse, its withers and girth area, and even the weather can change the way your saddle sits. A shires half pad is an effective solution to these common problems.

The best half pads are breathable to help reduce sweating and encourage airflow, reducing chafing from friction as the saddle moves across the back. They also wick away moisture to prevent bacterial build-up and itchiness. They are shaped to allow the girth to sit correctly under the saddle, while still keeping contact with the horse’s back.

Some shires half pads are made from wool, a natural and time-tested padding material that offers great cushioning and support for the back. Others feature a gel pad insert or shim to add extra shock absorption and reduce impact on pressure points, particularly in the wither area. These are a popular option, but may be uncomfortable for certain horses. Gel pads are also prone to movement, which can cause them to lose their effectiveness over time.

Another popular choice is a fleece-lined half pad, which can be used alone or in combination with other saddle pads to provide added protection and support for your horse. These are breathable and offer an extra layer of shock absorption and help to keep your horse cool, while the long fibers of the fleece naturally wick away sweat. They are also hard-wearing and easy to maintain.

A shires half pad that is suede-soft on the top and has deep ProComfort Supafleece lining is both smart and practical, with touch close retaining straps and a durable girth guard. It is contoured to allow for wither clearance and machine washable for easy care.

A shires half pad is an affordable and effective way to increase your horse’s comfort, especially when worn with a properly fitted saddle. While it is important to visit a professional saddle fitter, a shires half pad can be a good temporary solution until you can get your horse into for professional care.

Tags:all-purpose saddle pad | dressage pad | dressage saddle pad