Canter Chronicles — How To

With all the choices available to you, you may be asking; How do I know which dressage saddle pad to choose? Dressage saddle pads are an essential accessory for any rider looking to ensure their horse's comfort and performance during training or competition. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know what to look for when selecting the right pad for your horse. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some key factors to consider when picking a dressage saddle pad.

Material: The material of a saddle pad is one of the most crucial considerations when picking a dressage pad. Some popular materials include cotton, satin, fleece lining and mesh. fleece, Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, with cotton being breathable, easy to clean, and affordable, while fleece lining offers excellent shock absorption and moisture-wicking capabilities. Stain is gorgeous but sometimes hard to clean.

Size and shape: The size and shape of the saddle pad are also essential considerations. Dressage saddle pads are typically larger than other pads, covering the entire length of the saddle flaps, and come in a range of shapes, from square to contoured and with or without wither relief. The right size and shape of the pad will depend on the size of your saddle, the horse's back shape, and the rider's preference.

Thickness: The thickness of the saddle pad also plays a crucial role in selecting the right pad for your horse. Pads that are too thin may cause sweat to reach your saddle, while pads that are too thick may cause the saddle to sit too high, leading to an unideal saddle fit. The ideal thickness will depend on the horse's back shape, the saddle fit, and how heavy a training day it is.

Breathability: A breathable saddle pad is essential to prevent the horse from overheating during training or competition. Pads made of breathable materials, such as cotton or those with fleece lining, are ideal for wicking away moisture and promoting airflow around the horse's back. We highly recommend checking the lining of the saddle pad you're interested to see how moisture wicking it is.

Features: Is d-ring Velcro or billet velcro essential? It depends. We like our d-ring velcro due to it keeping the saddle pad off the withers and securing it in place. Billet velcro also helps keep the pad in place but personally, we find it too bulky. 

Style: Finally, the style of the saddle pad is a personal preference and can be a reflection of the rider's taste and style. Dressage saddle pads come in a range of colors and designs, from classic white or black to bold and bright colors, and patterns. Keep in mind that USEF Dressage rules do require the pads to be a conservative color, so if you're planning to show in your dressage saddle pad double check the color wheel. You can also check out our USEF Dressage Legal Pads here. 

In conclusion, when picking a dressage saddle pad, it's essential to consider the material, size and shape, thickness, breathability, and style. By taking these factors into account, riders can find the perfect saddle pad to enhance their horse's comfort, performance, and style.

Horseback riding is a rewarding and exciting activity that can provide a great sense of fulfillment and enjoyment. However, if you're new to the world of horses, getting started can be overwhelming. Here are some tips on how to get started riding horses.

1. Find a Stable or Riding School: The first step to getting started with horseback riding is to find a stable or riding school in your area. Look for a reputable facility that offers beginner lessons or an introductory program. Check to see if their horses looked cared for. Join local Facebook equestrian groups to ask for recommendations.

2. Learn About Horses: Before you start riding, take some time to learn about horses. Read up on horse care and basic horsemanship, and ask your instructor or other experienced riders for tips and advice.

3. Wear Proper Riding Attire: When riding horses, it's important to wear proper attire, including a helmet, riding boots, and fitted pants or breeches. Dress comfortably and avoid loose clothing that can get caught on the saddle or other equipment. I personally recommend wearing long sleeves in case of a tumble and make sure you wear shoes with a heel to ensure your foot does not slip through the stirrup.

4. Start with a Basic Lesson: Your first horseback riding lesson will likely be a basic introduction to riding and handling a horse. You'll learn how to groom the horse, mount and dismount, hold the reins, and guide the horse.

5. Volunteer at a Horse Rescue: Volunteering at a horse rescue can be a great way to learn about horse care and get hands-on experience working with horses. Many rescues offer volunteer programs that allow you to help with horse care and feeding, grooming, and other tasks. Check out your local horse rescue to see how you can get involved.

6. Take It Slow: You'll hear this a lot in the horse world; fast is slow. Walking in the right direction is better than running in the wrong direction. It's important to take things slow when starting out with horseback riding. Don't be afraid to ask questions and take your time learning the basics. Building a strong foundation of knowledge and skills will help you progress more quickly in the long run. Don't worry if you feel like you're behind! You are just building your foundation and confidence. 

Getting started with horseback riding can be a fun and rewarding experience. By finding a reputable stable, learning about horse care, wearing proper attire, starting with a basic lesson, volunteering at a rescue, and taking it slow, you can develop a strong foundation for a lifelong love of horseback riding.