Choosing the right saddle pad can make the difference between a comfortable, balanced ride and a sore, unhappy horse. This roundup identifies top equestrian saddle pads and inserts for common needs — shock absorption, fit correction, show-ready looks, and everyday durability. Recommendations come from hands-on testing, expert input, and consumer feedback.
How we tested and chose products
- Hands-on testing: We evaluated fit, comfort, breathability, and durability across varied riding conditions (trail, arena, and light performance work). Where a full pad wasn't available (inserts or shims), we tested compatibility and adjustability within common saddle pad systems.
- Expert input: Saddle fitters and working riders provided feedback on pressure distribution, stability, and long-term wear patterns.
- Consumer feedback: We reviewed verified buyer comments to identify recurring strengths and issues (e.g., hold-up, shedding, or sizing variability).
- Real-world ranking factors: Comfort for horse and rider, ability to correct saddle fit, ease of cleaning/maintenance, and price-to-performance balance.
This combination of lab-style observations, field testing, and vet/fitter feedback informed our final selections.
Tush Cushion Seat Pad
A low-cost, shock-absorbing saddle seat cushion designed to stabilize the saddle and reduce rider impact. Lightweight, anti-slip material helps distribute pressure and improve rider comfort—ideal for casual riders or as a temporary seat saver.
YUZHANGHE Saddle Tush Cushion — Best Budget Pick
This small, economical seat saddle cushion is built to stabilize the saddle and provide extra shock absorption where riders feel the most impact. At its price point, it gives immediate comfort gains: the anti-slip surface helps keep the saddle steady and the thin, wide profile distributes pressure.
Key technical notes:
- Dimensions roughly 50 × 40 × 1.5 cm — compact, fits most saddles without bulk.
- Thin construction works well for minor fit adjustments or riders wanting extra cushioning without raising the saddle tree.
Who this is for: budget-conscious riders, trail riders, or anyone wanting a simple seat saver. Limitations: not a replacement for a corrective pad for major fit problems and not heavily padded for long, high-impact use.
Handmade Felt Western Pad
A dense, handmade felt western saddle pad with adjustable shims to improve saddle balance and relieve pressure. Built for high-withered or downhill horses, it offers durable, natural-feeling support and long-lasting structure for serious riders.
Western Saddle Pad (Petcci) — Premium Choice
This handcrafted solid-felt western pad is designed for riders who need durable shaping and reliable shim support. The dense felt holds its form to correct high withers and uneven saddle fit — especially useful on horses with pronounced conformation differences.
Standout features:
- Handmade solid felt construction for shape retention and durability.
- Designed to allow placement of wool or synthetic shims to fine-tune fit.
- Good for a wide range of saddles (Western, English, dressage) and horses with high withers or flat backs.
Technical considerations: Felt pads retain their shape and provide consistent cushioning but require periodic airing and care to maintain cleanliness and compressive properties. This pad is best for riders seeking a long-term, structured solution rather than a plush, cosmetic look.
Who this is for: riders with fit challenges (high withers, downhill conformation) or those wanting a durable, performance-oriented pad.
Memory Foam Shim Pack
A 12-pack of breathable memory foam shims designed for layering inside saddle pads to customize fit and relieve pressure points. Trim-to-fit versatility makes these ideal for targeted corrections and progressive adjustments during recovery or regular training.
ECP Equine Comfort Products Memory Foam Inserts — Best Value for Money
This set of memory foam shims is a practical, low-cost way to adjust saddle balance and target pressure points. The foam softens with body heat to contour the horse’s back, and the breathable composition helps reduce heat buildup under the pad.
Standout features:
- Pack of 12 allows multiple stacking and placement to precisely correct fit.
- Easy to cut and trim for custom shaping; slides into most correction pads.
- Breathable foam that softens and molds with body heat.
Why it’s a great value: for a modest price you get adjustable, re-usable components that solve many common saddle-fit issues without the cost of custom work. Limitations: shims are not a substitute for a properly fitting saddle — they’re a corrective tool. Durability depends on use and range of motion; inspect periodically for compression set.
Faux Fur Half Pad
A plush faux-fur half pad with foam insert for pressure reduction and airflow. Machine-washable synthetic lambskin offers a luxury look with easy care, reducing friction and protecting the saddle area while keeping the horse comfortable.
TGW RIDING Faux Fur/Sheepskin Half Pad — Editors Choice
This synthetic lambskin half pad combines comfort, pressure relief, and easy maintenance. The faux fur underside cushions the horse and reduces rubs, while the cotton outer fabric and foam insert provide shape and breathability. An integrated channel helps maintain airflow along the spine.
Standout features:
- Faux-fur surface mimics natural lambskin but is washable and low-maintenance.
- Foam insert for shape retention and pressure distribution; cotton outer fabric for durability.
- Spine channel for ventilation—helps reduce heat while preserving cushioning.
Who it’s for: riders wanting a show-ready look with practical, washable comfort; especially good for horses that respond well to soft, shock-absorbing contact under the saddle. Note: faux fur will shed less than real sheepskin but needs regular care to keep the pile looking its best.
Comparison Overview — At-a-Glance
- YUZHANGHE Tush Cushion (Best Budget Pick) — Affordable, lightweight seat cushion for immediate comfort and minor stabilization; best for casual riders.
- Petcci Handmade Felt Pad (Premium Choice) — Durable, structured felt for correcting significant saddle-fit issues; great for high-withered or downhill horses.
- ECP Memory Foam Inserts (Best Value for Money) — Versatile, trim-to-fit shims that let you micro-adjust saddle balance at a very low price.
- TGW Faux Fur Half Pad (Editors Choice) — Plush, washable half pad that combines comfort and airflow with a tidy, show-ready appearance.
Which is best overall?
- For most riders balancing price, versatility, and day-to-day comfort, the TGW Faux Fur Half Pad is the strongest all-round pick: it offers pressure reduction, breathability, and easy care.
Best for specific needs:
- Correcting fit problems: Petcci Felt Pad.
- Tight budget or seat comfort only: YUZHANGHE Tush Cushion.
- Precision saddle fitting and rehab adjustments: ECP Memory Foam Inserts.
Final Recommendation
Selecting the right saddle pad starts with the horse’s conformation and the fit of your saddle. From our blended testing and expert feedback:
- Choose the TGW Faux Fur Half Pad if you want a comfortable, low-maintenance, everyday pad that reduces pressure and looks professional — our Editors Choice and the best all-rounder.
- If you’re dealing with persistent fit issues (high withers or uneven balance), invest in the Petcci Handmade Felt Pad for its shape-retaining structure.
- If you need custom corrections or a low-cost way to experiment with fit, the ECP Memory Foam Inserts give you the most flexible value.
- For riders short on budget who want quick seat relief, the YUZHANGHE Tush Cushion is a practical option.
These recommendations are grounded in hands-on testing, input from saddle fitters and riders, and a review of buyer experiences. If in doubt about major fit problems, consult a professional saddle fitter — pads and shims help, but they don’t replace a properly fitted saddle.
Happy riding—choose the pad that matches your horse’s needs and your riding goals.