There is an ongoing debate about whether or not you can ride a horse with a pad on. Many horse owners and riders believe that riding a horse with a pad on is unsafe and can cause physical damage to the horse. On the other hand, some riders believe that pads can help protect the horse’s back and provide comfort for the rider. Here, we will discuss the pros and cons of riding a horse with a pad on and provide advice on how to do it safely.
What Is A Riding Pad?
A riding pad is a type of saddle pad or cushioning material that is placed between the saddle and the horse’s back. It can be made of different materials including foam, felt, cotton, or wool. Riding pads come in a variety of colors and sizes and can be used for various purposes such as providing extra padding and protection, preventing saddle sores, and improving the rider’s comfort.
Pros Of Riding A Horse With A Pad
There are some benefits to using a riding pad when riding a horse.
- Protection: A pad can provide extra protection for the horse’s back from the saddle, which can help prevent saddle sores and other injuries.
- Comfort: A pad can add extra cushioning and comfort for the rider, which can help reduce fatigue and make the ride more enjoyable.
- Temperature Control: Pads can help keep the horse’s back cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather.
- Pressure Distribution: Pads can help evenly distribute the rider’s weight across the horse’s back, which can help reduce the risk of injury.
Cons Of Riding A Horse With A Pad
Although there are some benefits to using a riding pad, there are also some drawbacks.
- Lack Of Feel: A pad can reduce the rider’s ability to feel the horse’s movements and aids, which can make it difficult to ride accurately.
- Slippage: The pad can move around or slip underneath the saddle, which can cause the rider to lose their balance.
- Heat Buildup: The pad can trap heat and moisture, which can cause the horse to become uncomfortable.
- Increased Pressure: The pad can put extra pressure on the horse’s back, which can cause soreness and injury.
When To Use A Pad
Riding a horse with a pad is not necessarily wrong, but it is important to understand when it is appropriate and when it should be avoided.
- Short Rides: A pad can be used for short rides or light work such as basic schooling or trail riding.
- Young Horses: Pads can be beneficial for young horses that are still developing their back muscles and need extra cushioning.
- Riders With Back Problems: Pads can provide extra support and comfort for riders with back problems or discomfort in the saddle.
- Horses With Sore Backs: Pads can help to protect sore backs and provide extra cushioning for horses that are recovering from an injury.
When Not To Use A Pad
It is important to understand when it is not appropriate to use a pad.
- Competitive Riding: Pads should be avoided in competitive riding as it can impede the rider’s ability to feel the horse’s movements and aids.
- Long Rides: Pads should not be used for extended periods of riding as the heat and moisture can cause the horse to become uncomfortable.
- Sensitive Horses: Pads should be avoided for horses that are sensitive to pressure as the extra cushioning can cause soreness and injury.
- High-Impact Activities: Pads should not be used for high-impact activities such as jumping or cross-country as the extra cushioning can cause the rider to lose their balance.
How To Use A Pad Safely
If you decide to use a pad when riding your horse, it is important to do so safely.
- Choose The Right Pad: Make sure to choose the right pad for your horse and the activity. Consider the size, thickness, and material of the pad.
- Check The Fit: Make sure the pad fits properly on the horse’s back and does not slip or move around.
- Check The Temperature: Make sure the pad does not get too hot or too cold.
- Monitor The Horse: Make sure to monitor your horse for signs of discomfort or pain.
Conclusion
Riding a horse with a pad can be beneficial in some cases, but there are also risks involved. It is important to understand the pros and cons of riding a horse with a pad, as well as when and how it should be done safely. If you decide to use a pad, make sure to choose the right one for your horse and the activity, check the fit and temperature, and monitor your horse for signs of discomfort or pain.
References
1. Sills, M. (2020). What is a Riding Pad and When Should I Use It?. Retrieved from https://www.smartpakequine.com/smartpak-blog/what-is-a-riding-pad-and-when-should-i-use-it.
2. Boucher, T. (2018). Pros and Cons of using a Saddle Pad. Retrieved from https://equisearch.com/horses_care/tack/pros-and-cons-using-saddle-pad/.
3. Hanson, M. (2019). Saddle Pad Basics. Retrieved from https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/horse-care/saddle-pad-basics/.