English Saddle Pads & Numnahs

An English saddle pad (also called a numnah) is a fabric pad that sits between the saddle and the horse's back, protecting the saddle from sweat and the horse from any minor saddle pressure points. English-cut pads are shaped to match the saddle - jumping pads have a forward cut, dressage pads have a square back cut. Numnah is the older term for a saddle-shaped pad.

Use a saddle pad in every ride. The pad protects both saddle and horse: it absorbs sweat and dirt that would otherwise damage the leather, and provides a hygienic barrier between successive horses. For decorative show use, choose a smart pad in your stable colours; for everyday schooling, choose a hard-wearing washable pad.

Match the pad shape to your saddle: jumping pads for jumping saddles (forward cut), dressage pads for dressage saddles (square cut). Match the size to your saddle's seat size - the pad should extend slightly beyond the saddle in all directions, typically 5-10cm of pad showing all the way around.

Most are. Cool wash, mild detergent, no softener (it strips wicking finishes), line dry. Decorative finishes (pearls, glitter, velvet) can be washed but follow the label carefully. Sheepskin pads benefit from a sheepskin-specific shampoo.

Kentucky Horsewear dominates the saddle pad range with jumping-cut pads in plain, velvet, sheepskin, pearls, glitter, fleece and softshell finishes. We also stock CWD and Butet jumping saddle pads for the high-end show finish.

A saddle pad sits directly under the saddle and covers the same area as the saddle. A half pad sits between the saddle pad and the saddle and adds cushioning or pressure relief - sheepskin, gel or memory foam are common materials. Many riders use both: pad for hygiene, half pad for cushioning. See half pads for the half pad range.