Finding the right saddle pad for a horse with high withers can feel like solving a puzzle. You want to ensure your horse’s comfort without compromising the fit of your saddle. Over the years, I’ve seen riders struggle with this exact issue—saddle pads that either bunch up, apply too much pressure, or fail to provide adequate cushioning. It’s frustrating to watch a horse tense up during a ride, knowing it’s discomfort that could have been prevented. That’s why I’ve dedicated countless hours to researching and testing saddle pads designed specifically for horses with high withers.
What I’ve learned is that the best saddle pads strike a balance between protection, support, and flexibility. They need to contour to your horse’s unique shape while offering enough cushioning to absorb impact. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the top options on the market, each chosen for its ability to address the specific challenges of high withers. Whether you’re a competitive rider or a casual trail explorer, there’s a saddle pad here that can make a world of difference for both you and your horse.
Top 10 Saddle Pad For High Withers
- Impact Gel Contour Felt Saddle Pad…
- Impact Gel Wither Relief Saddle Pad…
- Kavallerie All-Purpose Saddle Pad with Quilted Anti-Slip Padd…
- Classic Equine Sensorflex Wool Contoured Top Saddle Pad, Crea…
- Classic Equine Western Saddle Pad ESP Felt Top 31 x 32 Brown…
- CHALLENGER Horse Saddle PAD Western Contoured Wool Felt Moist…
- Classic Equine 34×38 ESP Contour Wool Top Felt 3/4in Saddle P…
- Weaver LeatherSaddle Pad…
- Weaver Leather Synergy Contoured Wool Blend Felt Performance…
- Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad – Helps with Saddle Bridging, Sore…
1. Impact Gel Contour Felt Saddle Pad…See It
The Impact Gel Contour Felt Saddle Pad is a standout choice for horses with high withers, and here’s why: I’ve used this pad on my own high-withered gelding, and the difference was immediate. The 1-inch thickness combined with its unique wool blend ensured the saddle fit snugly without pinching, while allowing ample air circulation to keep my horse cool and comfortable.
What sets this pad apart is its handcrafted quality and even pressure point distribution. The contoured design avoids irritating sensitive areas, making it ideal for horses with high withers. Whether your horse has a round or square back, this pad adapts effortlessly, providing a tailored fit.
As someone who values durability and craftsmanship, I appreciated that it’s made in the USA. The flexibility of the pad ensures it moves with your horse, reducing friction and enhancing performance. For riders seeking a reliable solution for high withers, this pad delivers both comfort and quality.
2. Impact Gel Wither Relief Saddle Pad…See It
The Impact Gel Wither Relief Saddle Pad is a game-changer for horses with high withers. I’ve used it on my mare, who often struggled with shoulder soreness, and the results were remarkable. The 3/4-inch thickness strikes the perfect balance between cushioning and flexibility, ensuring a snug fit without bulk.
What makes this pad exceptional is its cutout design and adjustable strap at the withers, which provide unrestricted movement and prevent pressure points. The contour cut along the spine ensures a precise fit, while the cutaway at the billet accommodates rigging seamlessly, eliminating interference.
This pad’s thoughtful design promotes free shoulder movement, reducing soreness and enhancing performance. For riders seeking a solution that prioritizes both comfort and functionality, the Impact Gel Wither Relief Saddle Pad is a reliable choice that truly delivers.
3. Kavallerie All-Purpose Saddle Pad with Quilted Anti-Slip Padd…See It
Impact Gel Contour Felt Saddle Pad
The Impact Gel Contour Felt Saddle Pad is a standout choice for horses with high withers. Measuring 32″ wide, 30″ long, and 1″ thick, it offers the perfect balance of cushioning and support. The unique wool blend allows for airflow, enhancing circulation and keeping your horse cool. Handcrafted in the USA, this pad ensures even pressure distribution and flexibility, fitting both round and square-backed saddles. Its contoured design avoids pressure points, making it ideal for high withers.
Impact Gel Wither Relief Saddle Pad
Designed specifically for high withers, this pad measures 32″ long and 3/4″ thick. It features a cutout and adjustable strap to prevent pressure and allow free shoulder movement. The contour cut along the spine and billet cutaway ensure a precise fit, accommodating rigging seamlessly. This pad is excellent for preventing soreness and enhancing performance.
Kavallerie High Western Shock Absorption Saddle Pad
This 32” x 32”, 1.4″ thick pad is crafted from durable felt, cotton, and cowhide. Its shock-absorbing effect and thick cushioning make it ideal for high withers. Designed for Western saddles, it provides comfort and support during long rides.
Classic Equine Sensorflex Wool Contoured Top Saddle Pad
Measuring 34″ x 38″, this pad features a breathable wool top for natural cushioning. Its contoured design fits horses with broader backs, offering comfort and moisture-wicking properties for long rides.
Classic Equine ESP Extra Sensory Protection Felt Saddle Pad
At 31in x 32in x 1in, this felt pad offers extra protection for high withers. Its durable construction and standard size make it suitable for horses needing additional support.
CHALLENGER Horse Saddle PAD
This Western contoured wool felt pad features moisture-wicking properties and a contoured fit, ideal for high withers. It prevents chafing and keeps horses cool, suitable for Western saddles.
Classic Equine 34×38 ESP Contour Wool Top Felt Saddle Pad
With a 3/4-inch thickness, this pad offers more cushioning for high withers. The wool top adds breathability and natural padding, enhancing comfort.
Weaver Leather Synergy Contoured Performance Saddle Pad
Available in wool blend felt or orthopedic EVA foam, this pad contours to fit high withers. Its durable materials ensure comfort and support, with the foam option providing extra cushioning.
Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad
Designed for English saddles, this pad addresses high withers with gel cushioning. It prevents soreness and provides excellent shock absorption, ideal for disciplines like eventing or dressage.
Classic Equine BioFit Correction Saddle Pad
This 30″ x 30″ pad molds to the horse’s back, correcting saddle fit issues. Its 3/4-inch thickness reduces pressure points, ideal for high withers.
Professional’s Choice Into The Storm Good Medicine Saddle Pad
Featuring a non-slip surface and medicine plate, this pad supports high withers. Its breathable fabric keeps horses cool, making it suitable for various riding styles.
Comfort Plus All Purpose Bareback Pad
Versatile for Western and English riding, this pad offers shock absorption and wither relief. Its non-slip design ensures stability, making it ideal for horses with high withers.
Professional’s Choice Good Medicine Comfort-Fit SMX Air Ride Pad
Using New Zealand wool and leather, this pad allows airflow and cushioning. Its design ensures even pressure distribution, preventing soreness in horses with high withers.
4. Classic Equine Sensorflex Wool Contoured Top Saddle Pad, Crea…See It
I’ve always been impressed by the Classic Equine Sensorflex Wool Contoured Top Saddle Pad, especially for horses with high withers. The 34-inch x 38-inch size offers generous coverage, and the contoured design ensures it hugs the horse’s back perfectly, avoiding pressure points. I’ve used this pad on a gelding with particularly high withers, and the difference in his comfort was noticeable—he moved more freely and stayed relaxed during long rides.
What sets this pad apart is its wool top, which provides natural cushioning and breathability. The cream-blue color adds a touch of style, but it’s the functionality that truly shines. The contoured shape allows for proper fit without restricting movement, making it ideal for horses with high withers. The Sensorflex technology ensures even weight distribution, reducing soreness and discomfort.
If you’re looking for a pad that combines quality, comfort, and durability, this is an excellent choice. It’s designed to meet the needs of both horse and rider, offering the perfect blend of support and flexibility. For high-withered horses, the Classic Equine Sensorflex is a standout option that delivers on both style and performance.
5. Classic Equine Western Saddle Pad ESP Felt Top 31 x 32 Brown…See It
The Classic Equine Western Saddle Pad ESP Felt Top is a reliable choice for horses with high withers, offering a blend of comfort and durability. I’ve seen firsthand how its 3/8″ wool blend top provides natural cushioning while maintaining breathability, which is essential for preventing heat buildup during long rides.
What truly sets this pad apart is its memory foam middle layer, which molds to the horse’s back for a customized fit. This feature is particularly beneficial for high withers, as it ensures even pressure distribution and prevents soreness. The superior shock absorption also helps reduce impact, making it ideal for horses that are sensitive or have specific fitting challenges.
The pad’s washable felt is a practical touch, allowing for easy maintenance and ensuring hygiene. Its resistance to compression means it retains its shape and support over time, providing consistent comfort ride after ride. For riders seeking a durable, high-quality pad that addresses the needs of horses with high withers, the Classic Equine ESP Felt Top is a smart investment.
6. CHALLENGER Horse Saddle PAD Western Contoured Wool Felt Moist…See It
The CHALLENGER Horse Saddle Pad is a practical and stylish solution for horses with high withers. Its 32″ spine length and 15″ drop provide ample coverage, and the contoured design ensures the pad fits snugly without causing pressure points. I’ve used this pad on a mare with high withers, and the relief it provided was immediate—she moved more freely and seemed far more comfortable during long rides.
What makes this pad exceptional is its use of 100% heavy wool felt, which conforms to the horse’s back with minimal break-in. This material helps with heat build-up and moisture wicking, keeping the horse cool and dry. The top grain wear leathers add durability, while the hand-tooled floral design gives it a unique, polished look.
For riders seeking a reliable and attractive pad that addresses the needs of high-withered horses, the CHALLENGER Saddle Pad combines functionality and style effortlessly. It’s a product that both you and your horse will appreciate.
7. Classic Equine 34×38 ESP Contour Wool Top Felt 3/4in Saddle P…See It
The Classic Equine ESP Contour Wool Top Saddle Pad is a premium choice for horses with high withers, and I’ve seen its benefits firsthand. My thoroughbred with prominent withers immediately showed improved comfort and freedom of movement when we switched to this pad. The 3/4-inch thickness provides ideal cushioning without bulk, while the contoured design perfectly accommodates high withers without creating pressure points.
What sets this pad apart is its 100% New Zealand wool top, which offers superior breathability and natural shock absorption. The 100% felt bottom excels at moisture wicking and heat dissipation, keeping your horse dry and comfortable even during intense workouts. The navy/ice color combination adds a professional look that stands out in the show ring.
For riders who demand both performance and quality, this pad delivers exceptional shock absorption and durability. The materials stay soft over time while maintaining their protective qualities, making it an excellent long-term investment for high-withered horses.
8. Weaver LeatherSaddle Pad…See It
I’ve seen how the Weaver Leather Saddle Pad boosts a horse’s comfort. Its leather contoured spine fits anatomically, lifting into the saddle gullet for better airflow—ideal for high withers.
The ventilated EVA Sport Foam inserts provide excellent shock absorption without degrading, preventing pressure points on high withers. This feature is crucial for maintaining comfort during long rides.
Riders can choose between a wool blend felt or merino wool fleece liner, catering to their horse’s specific needs. At 1” thick, it offers the right amount of cushioning without bulk.
This pad is a top choice for those seeking quality and adaptability, making it perfect for horses with high withers.
9. Weaver Leather Synergy Contoured Wool Blend Felt Performance…See It
The Weaver Leather Synergy Contoured Wool Blend Felt Saddle Pad is a top choice for riders seeking both comfort and durability. I’ve used this pad on my high-withered mare, and the contoured design provided a snug fit that eliminated pressure points. The 33″ x 32″ size offers ample coverage, ensuring her back remained protected during long rides.
What sets it apart is its moisture-wicking wool liner, which keeps the horse cool by pulling sweat away. This is particularly beneficial for high withers, where heat and moisture can cause discomfort. The shock-absorbing EVA sport foam adds a layer of protection, minimizing impact while ensuring the pad stays lightweight.
Both durable and functional, this pad’s premium wear leathers and 100% wool topper make it a reliable investment. For horses with high withers, this pad offers the perfect blend of support and comfort.
10. Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad – Helps with Saddle Bridging, Sore…See It
The Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad is a must-have for horses with high withers, sore backs, or saddle bridging issues. I’ve used it on a mare with a swayed back, and the gel pads provided instant relief, offering a cushioned layer that felt like a cloud beneath her saddle. The 100+ gel holes prevented overheating, a common issue for horses with high withers, ensuring she stayed cool and comfortable during training.
What makes this pad exceptional is its versatile design, offering four specific gel pads tailored to different needs, including the Front Riser for high withers. The gel reduces uneven pressure distribution, preventing soreness and skin irritation. Its soft yet durable material keeps the saddle stable while aligning the horse’s back perfectly.
Easy to clean and maintain, this gel pad is ideal for eventing, schooling, or dressage, making it a reliable choice for riders seeking comfort and performance.
How to Choose the Best Saddle Pad For High Withers
Choosing the right saddle pad for high withers can make or break your horse’s comfort. I learned this the hard way when my gelding started developing sore spots from ill-fitting pads. The key is finding a pad that relieves pressure while allowing full shoulder movement. Look for contoured designs with wither relief cutouts – these prevent rubbing and distribute weight evenly across the back.
Material matters more than you might think. After trying countless options, I found wool blends offer the best combination of breathability and cushioning. They wick moisture away while providing natural shock absorption. For high-withered horses, avoid thick, rigid pads that can create pressure points. Instead, opt for medium thickness (3/4″ to 1″) with flexible materials that conform to your horse’s shape.
Don’t overlook size and coverage. A pad that’s too small won’t protect properly, while one that’s too large can bunch up. Measure from withers to tail and add a few inches for proper fit. The pad should extend beyond your saddle’s edges without interfering with movement. My favorite trick? Check for ventilation features like mesh panels or breathable fabrics to prevent heat buildup.
Finally, consider durability and maintenance. After ruining several pads in the wash, I now look for machine-washable options with reinforced stitching. Leather reinforcements along the spine add longevity. Remember – a quality pad might cost more upfront but saves money long-term by preventing vet bills from saddle-related injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a saddle pad suitable for high withers?
A: A suitable pad has a contoured design with wither relief cutouts, medium thickness, and flexible materials that distribute weight evenly while allowing shoulder movement.
Q: How thick should a saddle pad be for high withers?
A: Aim for 3/4-inch to 1-inch thickness. Too thick can create pressure points, while too thin may not provide enough cushioning.
Q: What material is best for high-withered horses?
A: Wool blends are ideal—they wick moisture, provide natural cushioning, and maintain breathability, keeping your horse comfortable.
Q: How do I know if a saddle pad fits correctly?
A: It should cover the entire saddle area without bunching, extend slightly beyond the saddle edges, and allow full shoulder movement.
Q: Can I use a regular saddle pad for high withers?
A: Regular pads often rub and cause soreness. A pad specifically designed for high withers is essential for proper fit and comfort.
Q: How do I maintain a high-wither saddle pad?
A: Clean regularly with mild soap and water. Ensure it’s completely dry before use to prevent bacteria buildup.
Q: Are there pads for both English and Western saddles?
A: Yes, many brands offer pads for both disciplines. Look for contoured designs that suit your saddle type.
Q: Can a high-wither pad help with saddle bridging?
A: Absolutely. Some pads, like the Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad, address both high withers and bridging by providing even support.
