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December 2017 THE HORSE TheHorse.com
or provides a cushion. Gel also tends to
hold heat, thus making the horse's back
hotter. In addition, Dyson says there
is little scientific evidence for gel pads'
therapeutic value. "Nothing has proven
shock-absorptive capacity," she says.
Many therapeutic pads have openings
for shims on both sides in the front and
the back. These smaller pieces of foam
help fill in where the horse's muscles are
lacking. In theory they help fill the gaps
beneath the saddle, causing it to sit more
balanced. But Dyson believes shims "cre-
ate edges adjacent to which will be focal
pressure points," and, therefore, could
do more harm than good.
Western saddle pads made of neo-
prene are popular for their shock-
absorbing quality. Because the material
is sticky, it is less likely to slip or bunch.
On the downside, it might trap heat,
which could make it uncomfortable for a
horse in hot weather or working hard. On
the plus side, they are very easy to clean,
usually requiring only a quick rinse with
a hose. In addition to neoprene, West-
ern pads can have a gel, wool, or foam
core and/or include slots for shims. They
might be contoured and have a cut-away
to prevent the pad from binding against
the horse's withers. Some are rounded at
the rear of the pad to better fit short-
backed horses.
Take-Home Message
Regardless of your riding style and
preference, your first priority should be
for saddle fit. Following that, our sources
say a basic pad made of natural fibers is
your best choice.
Many other types, sizes, and shapes
can serve a purpose in certain situa-
tions, but remember they are short-term
solutions. Proper tack fit always comes
first.
h
STEPHANIE
L.
CHURCH/THE
HORSE
Many therapeutic pads have openings for shims on both sides; in theory, these pieces help fill in
gaps where the horse's muscles are lacking.
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TH 2017-12b