Saddle Pads

Saddle pads for English riding come in more shapes, fabrics, and fits than most riders expect when they start looking and choosing the right one makes a real difference in both your horse's comfort and the overall picture in the ring. Long Valley Tack & Supply carries a full range of English saddle pads for schooling, dressage,
jumping, and all-purpose riding, stocked with trusted brands including Ovation, Breeches.com, American Equus, and San Eligius.

Dressage pads are cut with a longer, straighter profile to work with the deep-seated dressage saddle and create a clean, formal look in the sandbox. Jumping and close contact pads have a more forward-cut shape to clear the flap of a close contact or jumping saddle without bunching or interfering. All-purpose pads split the difference as a solid choice for riders who school in multiple disciplines or prefer one pad for daily use. We also carry pony and cob sizes for smaller horses.

Materials vary across the collection for good reason. Cotton quilted pads are breathable and easy to wash, while performance fabrics wick moisture and add cushion without bulk, which matters for horses with sensitive backs or saddles with a close fit. Show pads bring a polished finish with embroidery, piping, or monogram options. 

Fit between pad, saddle, and horse is the most important factor. A pad that's too small will expose the saddle panel; one that's too large can bunch under the billets and create pressure points. Our saddle pad fit and care guide walks through how to measure and what to look for. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a dressage saddle pad and a jumping saddle pad?

The main difference is the cut. Dressage pads have a longer, straighter profile that follows the shape of a dressage saddle's flap. Jumping and close contact pads are cut more forward and shorter in the back to match the shorter, more angled flap of a jumping or close contact saddle. Using the wrong cut can cause bunching or
an uneven fit under the billets.

How often should I wash my saddle pad?
At minimum every few rides. Sweat, dirt, and bacteria build up quickly in the fabric next to your horse's back. Most cotton quilted pads are machine washable on a gentle cycle; performance fabric
pads should follow the care label. Air drying extends the life of the pad and helps prevent shrinkage.

Do saddle pads affect saddle fit?
Yes, meaningfully. A thick pad under a well-fitted saddle can create pressure points or lift the saddle off the horse's back unevenly. Most saddlers recommend starting with saddle fit on a thin pad and building from there. If you're using a shim or correction pad to address a minor fit issue, work with your saddle fitter to choose the right configuration. 

What size saddle pad do I need for a cob or pony?
We carry saddle pads in full, cob, horse, and pony sizes. Cob pads are designed for horses and ponies with a smaller-than-average frame, typically 14.2 to 15.2 hands, while pony pads work for smaller ponies. The product listings include size guidance, and we're happy to help if you're unsure which to choose

Read our guide to Saddle Pad Fit, Fabrics and Care.