Express Worldwide ShippingOfficial Kentucky Horsewear ResellerFree shipping on orders over €100 within Ireland

Buying Guide

How to Choose a Saddle Pad: Size, Fit & Fabric

Choosing the right saddle pad comes down to three things: the correct cut for your saddle, the right size for your horse, and a fabric that breathes. This guide walks you through each, then points you to pads that fit.

Shop the Collection Free shipping over €100 within Ireland. Express tracked worldwide delivery.

Official reseller

Authentic Kentucky Horsewear with full warranty.

Shipped worldwide

Express, tracked delivery from Ireland & EU.

Fast dispatch

Free shipping over €100 within Ireland. Express tracked worldwide delivery.

Shop the edit

View all

Ask anything

Quick answers

Answer

How do I choose the right saddle pad size?

Match the pad to your saddle size using pony, cob or full. The pad should extend slightly beyond the saddle on all sides without bunching at the shoulder. If you are between sizes, choose the larger one for full coverage and a clean line.

Answer

Should I buy a dressage or jumping saddle pad?

Choose a dressage-cut pad (longer, straighter flap) for a dressage saddle, and a jumping or general-purpose cut for a jumping, eventing or GP saddle. The cut should follow the shape of your saddle's flap so the pad sits flat and unseen.

Step 1: Match the cut to your saddle

Saddle pads are cut to mirror the saddle flap. A dressage pad has a long, vertical flap line for long-flapped dressage saddles; a jumping or GP pad has a more forward, angled cut for jumping and general-purpose saddles. Using the right cut keeps the pad tidy and stops it peeking out beyond the flap.

If you school in one saddle and compete in another, buy a pad to match each cut rather than compromising with one shape.

Step 2: Get the size and fit right

Most pads come in pony, cob and full. The pad should sit about 2–3 cm proud of the saddle all the way around — enough to protect the horse, not so much that it looks oversized. Crucially, lift the pad well up into the saddle gullet before girthing so it does not press on the spine or withers.

An anatomic, spine-free topline (as used across the Kentucky range) reduces pressure on the wither and allows the pad to follow the horse's shape. Check our Size Guide if you are unsure how to measure.

Step 3: Choose the right fabric and care for it

Look for breathable, quick-drying technical fabrics that wick sweat and dry fast between rides. A soft, non-slip lining helps the pad stay put without over-tightening the girth.

Wash cool at 30°C with non-bio detergent, skip fabric softener and air dry. Good care keeps the shaping and colour for many seasons — important if you are building a coordinated set.

How to Choose a Saddle Pad: Size, Fit & Fabric

The best saddle pad is one you forget about: correctly cut, correctly sized, breathable and stable. Get those right and the pad protects your horse and finishes your turnout without ever drawing attention for the wrong reasons.

When you are ready to buy, the Kentucky range covers every cut and size on an anatomic, welfare-first base — shop the edit below or explore the full collection.

Shop Kentucky Saddle PadsDressage vs Jumping PadsHow to Clean Saddle PadsSize Guide

Frequently asked questions

Ready to shop Kentucky Horsewear?

Explore the Range