You've probably seen them—the stunning, perfectly coordinated saddle pads that stand out in any arena. Chances are, they're Best Ever Pads. Their claim to fame is an incredible level of customization. With over 40 leather colors, custom embroidery, and unique accents like fringe and crystals, you can design a pad that perfectly matches your style. But these pads are about much more than just good looks. The ability to choose the right wool type, thickness, and even add liners means you can create a pad tailored to your horse’s specific needs. This guide will walk you through all the options, helping you build a pad that’s not only a statement piece but also a high-performance tool in your tack room.
Key Takeaways
- Solve Fit Issues with Customization: Best Ever Pads shine when you need a specific solution for your horse's back or want to create a unique look. Use their different wool collections and extensive color options to build a pad that provides targeted support and matches your personal style.
- Understand the Performance Trade-Offs: While many riders love the soft, flexible feel right out of the box, others have concerns about long-term durability compared to firmer pads. Consider your riding intensity and how you prioritize immediate comfort versus rugged longevity.
- Choose Your Buying Path Wisely: For a fully personalized design with custom logos, order directly from the manufacturer. For a standard pad with fast, free shipping and the security of a 365-day satisfaction guarantee, purchase from an authorized retailer like Hooves and Paws.
Why Riders Swear By Best Ever Pads a Rider Favorite?
When you talk to riders who use Best Ever Pads, you’ll hear a few themes over and over: comfort for the horse, durability, and a perfect fit. It’s not just hype. These pads are thoughtfully designed from the ground up with the horse’s anatomy in mind. They combine smart features, high-quality materials, and American craftsmanship to create a piece of horse tack that truly stands out. Let’s break down exactly what makes these pads a go-to choice for equestrians across disciplines.
The Smart Two-Piece Design for Wither Relief
One of the first things you'll notice about a Best Ever Pad is its unique shape. The two-piece, contoured design isn't just for looks; it's made to follow the natural curve of your horse's back. This thoughtful construction includes a generous cutout over the withers—that bony ridge between the shoulder blades. This simple feature makes a world of difference by preventing the pinching and pressure that can cause soreness. The pad is also shaped to accommodate the cinch, ensuring your saddle stays securely in place without shifting or rubbing, giving your horse the freedom to move comfortably.
Handcrafted from High-Quality Wool
Every Best Ever Pad is handmade to order in the USA, and the quality of the materials is a huge part of their appeal. They are crafted from 100% wool, a material prized for its natural benefits. Wool is incredibly breathable and wicks moisture away, which helps keep your horse cool and dry, even during long rides. It also provides excellent shock absorption, protecting your horse’s back from impact. Because each pad is made by hand with high-quality wool and leather, you get a product built with care and attention to detail.
Made in the USA: Quality You Can Feel
For many riders, knowing their gear is made in the USA is a significant mark of quality. Best Ever Pads takes this to heart, ensuring every pad meets high standards of craftsmanship. This commitment means you can trust that the pad you receive is built for performance and longevity. The focus on domestic manufacturing allows for better quality control, so you can feel confident that the pad’s design, from its contoured shape to its wither relief, is consistently executed to protect your horse and provide lasting comfort ride after ride.
Handmade in Los Osos, California
Every Best Ever Pad is handmade in Los Osos, California, a small coastal town that serves as the heart of their operations. This isn't just a fun fact; it's a core part of their identity. By keeping production in-house, the team maintains complete control over the quality of every stitch and cut. This hands-on approach means that whether you order a standard pad or a fully custom design, you’re getting a piece of horse tack built by skilled artisans who are passionate about their work. It’s a commitment to American craftsmanship that you can see and feel, ensuring that each pad is not only beautiful but also built to withstand the demands of daily riding.
Over 40 Years of Industry Experience
Behind every pad is over 40 years of industry experience. That’s four decades spent perfecting the art of saddle pad construction, listening to feedback from riders, and understanding the nuances of equine anatomy. This extensive history isn't just about tradition; it's about continuous improvement. The company has used that time to refine its materials and designs, resulting in a product that is both reliable and innovative. When you choose a Best Ever Pad, you're benefiting from a deep well of knowledge that ensures your horse gets the comfort and support it needs, backed by a legacy of proven performance.
No Break-In Period: Ready to Ride Instantly
There’s nothing worse than stiff, new tack that needs a long break-in period. Best Ever Pads solves this problem. Thanks to the high-quality, 100% needle-punched wool used in pads like the popular OG, they are soft and flexible from day one. You get excellent compression protection and a comfortable fit for your horse immediately, without any awkward "getting to know you" phase. You can pull it out of the box, tack up, and head out for a ride knowing your horse is comfortable from the start.
How to Design Your Perfect Best Ever Pad
If you love making your gear your own, you’re in the right place. One of the biggest draws of Best Ever Pads is the incredible level of customization. It’s not just about getting a high-performance pad; it’s about creating something that reflects your personal style and your horse’s needs. From the color of the leather to the type of wool, you get to call the shots. This is your chance to design a piece of horse tack that’s as unique as your partnership with your horse, ensuring you stand out for all the right reasons. Let’s walk through all the ways you can build your perfect pad from the ground up.
Choose Your Leather: Over 40 Colors
Forget being stuck with standard black or brown. Best Ever Pads lets you express yourself with a massive selection of over 40 leather colors for the wear leathers. Whether you want to perfectly match your saddle, coordinate with your show outfit, or just pick your absolute favorite color, the choice is yours. This level of personalization is a huge part of what makes them the king of custom saddle pads. This splash of color is a fantastic way to add personality to your gear, turning a functional piece of equipment into a statement piece that’s uniquely you and feels truly special every time you tack up.
Select the Right Wool for Your Horse's Needs
Customization goes beyond looks—it’s also about your horse’s comfort. Best Ever Pads understands that every horse is different, which is why they offer several wool options. You can choose the specific thickness and type of wool that will give your horse the best support and fit. For even more fine-tuning, you can add a neoprene or fleece lining. This focus on a customized fit ensures the pad works with your horse’s conformation, providing comfort and protection where it’s needed most. It’s a thoughtful approach that shows a deep understanding of equine needs, whether you’re on a long trail ride or in a high-stakes performance arena.
Add a Personal Touch: Designs & Embroidery
If you want a pad that’s truly one-of-a-kind, you can add personal designs and embroidery. This is perfect for adding your initials, your horse’s name, or even your ranch brand. Best Ever Pads offers beautiful options like intricate tooled leather, hand-painted designs, and unique cowhide accents that add texture and character. It’s an excellent way to create a meaningful keepsake or a professional-looking award for your next event. These custom award pads are popular for a reason—they combine top-tier function with a deeply personal touch that you just can’t get off the shelf.
Finish the Look: Fringe, Crystals, and More
The final flourish is all in the details. Best Ever Pads lets you finish your design with a variety of decorative edges. You can go for a classic, clean look or add some flair with options like leather fringe or sparkling crystals. With so many styles to choose from, you can create a pad that’s as subtle or as flashy as you want it to be. Each pad is handcrafted right here in the USA, so you know you’re getting a quality piece built to your exact specifications. It’s the perfect way to complete your custom saddle pad and hit the arena in style.
How Do Best Ever Pads Stack Up Against Competitors?
When you’re investing in a high-quality saddle pad, you want to be sure you’re making the right choice. The world of premium horse tack is full of excellent options, and Best Ever pads are frequently compared to other industry leaders, most notably 5 Star Equine. Both brands have dedicated followings, and the "best" one often comes down to your horse's needs and your personal preferences in the saddle.
Riders often weigh factors like wool quality, durability, fit, and overall feel. While Best Ever is known for its customization and slightly softer feel right out of the box, brands like 5 Star have built a reputation on rugged durability. Understanding what fellow equestrians are saying about these pads can help you see beyond the marketing and decide which one truly fits your riding style and long-term goals. We’ve gathered feedback from riders across different disciplines to give you a clear picture of how these pads perform in the real world.
Comparing Best Ever to 5 Star and Other Top Brands
The most common comparison you'll see is between Best Ever and 5 Star pads. Many riders own both and have a good feel for the differences. One rider mentioned, "Best Ever is a bit softer and more flexible," which can be a huge plus if you want a pad that conforms quickly to your horse's back. On the other hand, some riders prefer the firm, dense feel of a 5 Star pad, with one user noting, "I love mine, it is durable tough, still looks great." The choice often boils down to whether you prioritize a softer, more pliable feel or a tougher, more rigid construction for maximum support.
Built to Last: Durability and Long-Term Value
Durability is a major talking point when comparing these pads. While Best Ever pads are slightly more affordable upfront, some riders have raised concerns about their longevity. One potential buyer shared, "I've heard that Best Ever doesn't last long... I really don't want to custom order this pad and it not fit or last!" Another rider stated more directly, "They don't hold up." This suggests a potential trade-off: a lower initial cost might mean a shorter lifespan compared to some competitors. When considering long-term value, it's important to weigh how much use the pad will get and if you're willing to replace it sooner.
What Riders Love (and What They Don't)
Rider feedback on Best Ever pads is definitely mixed, which shows just how personal saddle pad choice can be. Many users are incredibly loyal, with one enthusiastically sharing, "The Best Ever pads really are the best! I have 3 now, and they are my go-to pad!" These riders often praise the pad's fit, comfort, and performance. However, other customers have been left disappointed, citing issues with quality control. One rider described receiving a pad that felt "super super thin cheap feeling." This highlights that while many have a five-star experience, there seems to be some inconsistency in the final product.
What's the Price Tag (and How Can You Save)?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the price. Best Ever Pads are a premium product, and their price tag reflects that. But a higher price doesn't have to be a dealbreaker. Think of it as an investment in your horse's comfort and your own peace of mind. High-quality tack is designed to last for years, and when you break down the cost over its lifespan, it often makes more financial sense than replacing cheaper pads every season. Plus, there are several smart ways to shop that can make this top-tier gear more accessible. From seasonal sales to shipping deals, a little planning can go a long way in getting the best value for your money.
Breaking Down the Price Range
When you start shopping for a Best Ever Pad, you'll see prices that can go up to $350, with liners costing around $30. This range covers everything from their standard pads to fully customized creations with unique leather and designs. The cost is a direct reflection of the premium materials, like high-density wool, and the fact that each pad is handmade in the USA. While it's a significant purchase, it's priced in line with other top-tier saddle pad brands that prioritize quality craftsmanship and materials designed for your horse's ultimate comfort and performance.
How to Find Deals and Holiday Sales
If you have your heart set on a Best Ever Pad but want to find a better price, patience is your best friend. The company often runs holiday promotions and seasonal sales, especially around events like Black Friday. During these sales, you can typically find discounts from 10% to 25% off, which can make a big difference on a higher-priced item. The best way to stay in the loop is to follow their social media or sign up for their newsletter so you get a heads-up when a promotion is about to drop.
Need a Pad Fast? Check Out Ready-Made Pads
If you need a high-quality pad right now and can’t wait for a custom build, you’re in luck. Many retailers, including us here at Hooves and Paws, stock a great selection of ready-made Best Ever Pads. This means you can skip the production queue and get your new pad shipped out immediately. In fact, if you place your order before 2 PM PST, we’ll get it on its way the very same day. You get the top-tier quality of a Best Ever Pad without the wait, plus the convenience of our free continental U.S. shipping and 365-day satisfaction guarantee. It’s the perfect option when you need reliable horse tack delivered to your door fast.
How to Get Free Shipping
Shipping costs can add a hefty amount to your final total, so it's always wise to look for free shipping offers. While Best Ever Pads offers free shipping on US orders over $500, that's a pretty high threshold. A better option is to shop with an authorized retailer like Hooves and Paws. We offer free shipping on all orders in the continental U.S. with no minimum purchase required. That means you can get your new horse tack delivered right to your door without worrying about extra fees, whether you're buying one pad or outfitting your entire barn.
Why a Best Ever Pad is a Smart Investment
Ultimately, buying a Best Ever Pad is about more than just the initial cost—it's about long-term value. These pads are built to withstand the demands of daily riding. The primary material, wool, is a powerhouse of performance; it’s breathable, wicks away moisture to keep your horse's back cool, and is surprisingly easy to clean. You can find more details on their FAQ page. Investing in a durable, well-made pad protects your horse's back, improves saddle fit, and can even enhance performance. When you choose quality gear that lasts, you're making a smart investment that pays off ride after ride.
How to Choose the Right Best Ever Pad for Your Horse
Picking the right saddle pad is one of the most important decisions you can make for your horse's comfort and performance. A great pad distributes pressure evenly, wicks away sweat, and protects your horse's back. But with so many options, how do you know which one is the perfect match? Best Ever Pads simplifies this by offering distinct collections tailored to different needs, so you can find the ideal fit for your horse and your riding style.
Whether you're a casual trail rider, a competitive barrel racer, or have a horse with a tricky-to-fit back, there’s a pad designed with you in mind. Thinking about your horse’s conformation, your saddle’s fit, and the demands of your discipline will point you in the right direction. Let’s walk through the main collections to see which one sounds like the best fit for your partner.
Understanding Pad Sizing and Popular Options
Once you’ve picked a collection, the next step is getting the size and thickness right. The most popular sizes you’ll find are 30”x30” and 32”x32”, which work well for a wide range of western saddles. A good rule of thumb is to have about one to two inches of pad visible around your entire saddle skirt. This ensures the pad protects your horse from any potential rubbing without being so large that it interferes with their movement. Taking a quick measurement of your saddle before you order is always a smart move to guarantee a perfect fit from the start.
Just as important as size is the pad's thickness, which directly impacts shock absorption and comfort. The most common thickness is 1", offering a great balance of protection and feel for most horses and disciplines. However, you can also find options like 3/4" for a closer contact feel or 1.25" for horses needing extra cushioning. Best Ever’s ability to let you choose the right wool and thickness is key to creating a truly customized fit, ensuring your horse gets the precise support they need for their specific back shape and your riding demands.
For the All-Around Rider: The OG Collection
If you need a reliable, do-it-all workhorse of a pad, the OG Collection is your answer. This is the original Best Ever Pad, crafted from 100% needle-punched wool that creates a firm, durable, and breathable foundation. It’s an excellent choice for everyday riding and a wide range of disciplines because it holds its shape and provides consistent support without being too bulky. Available in a classic dark gray, you can choose between a 3/4" or 1" thickness depending on how much protection your horse needs under the saddle. For most riders and horses, the OG is the perfect, no-fuss starting point for quality and performance.
Wool Density: 112 oz per square yard
When you look at the specs for the OG Collection, you'll see a number that matters a lot: a wool density of 112 ounces per square yard. This isn't just a technical detail; it's the key to the pad's performance. This specific density creates a pad that is firm enough to provide excellent shock absorption, protecting your horse’s back from impact, yet remains breathable. Wool is a fantastic natural material for wicking moisture, and this density allows air to circulate, keeping your horse cooler and drier during long rides. It strikes the perfect balance, offering robust support without sacrificing the comfort that comes from a pad that can breathe, making it a reliable piece of horse tack for daily work.
Need Extra Cushion? Try the Kush Collection
Does your horse need a little extra softness and support? The Kush Collection is designed for exactly that. Made from 100% washed and pressed wool, these pads are incredibly soft and flexible right from the start. They do a fantastic job of absorbing moisture and conforming to your horse’s back, providing superior comfort during long rides or intense work. The Kush pad is a great option for sensitive horses, those with minor back soreness, or anyone who wants to give their horse a more luxurious feel under the saddle. It comes in a light gray color and is available in 3/4", 1", or 1.25" thicknesses.
Wool Density: 136 oz per square yard
The Kush Collection features a wool density of 136 ounces per square yard, which is a technical way of saying it's packed with a high concentration of wool fibers. This dense construction is the secret to its superior performance. It provides exceptional shock absorption, creating a protective cushion that shields your horse’s back from the impact of movement and the weight of the saddle. Even with this high density, the pad remains soft and pliable, allowing it to conform perfectly to your horse's shape for a custom-like fit. This combination of density and softness makes it an excellent piece of horse tack for providing both support and pressure relief, especially for sensitive horses or during demanding rides.
Solving Fit Issues with the CEO Collection
Finding the right horse tack can be a real challenge for horses with unique conformation, like high withers or a sway back. The CEO Collection is the solution. These pads are specifically engineered with built-in features to address common fitting issues. Some pads in this collection include special foam inserts or soft fleece to fill in gaps, lift the saddle, and provide targeted support where it’s needed most. If you’ve struggled with saddle fit and keeping your horse comfortable, the specialized design of a CEO pad can make a world of difference, ensuring better pressure distribution and a happier horse.
The Cadillac Series for High Withers
If you have a performance horse or one with prominent, high withers, you know the struggle of finding a pad that doesn't pinch or create pressure points. The Cadillac Series is designed specifically for this challenge. It features extra foam padding strategically placed to provide additional support and lift the saddle away from the spine. This targeted cushioning helps distribute weight more evenly across your horse's back, preventing soreness and allowing for greater freedom of movement. It’s an ideal choice for riders who need a bit more structure from their horse tack to ensure a comfortable and secure saddle fit, especially during demanding athletic activities.
The BHS Series for Poor Saddle Fit
The BHS Series is another fantastic problem-solver for horses with tricky conformations. Similar to the Cadillac, this series uses specialized foam inserts, but its primary goal is to correct issues related to poor saddle fit. The inserts are designed to spread out saddle pressure, making it a great option for horses with high withers, narrow shoulders, or other fit challenges that a standard pad can’t address. By filling in the gaps where a saddle might bridge or rock, the BHS pad creates a more stable and comfortable surface, ensuring your saddle stays put and your horse stays happy. It’s a smart, targeted solution for achieving a better all-around fit.
The Fleece Series for Sensitive Horses
For horses with sensitive skin or those who need an extra layer of plush comfort, the Fleece Series is the perfect fit. This pad features a soft, medical-grade fleece lining that feels great against the horse's back. Beyond its softness, the fleece offers excellent shock absorption and is fantastic at wicking away moisture, keeping your horse drier and more comfortable during work. This combination of features makes it one of our best-selling options for riders who prioritize their horse's comfort above all else. It’s a gentle yet high-performing pad that provides a little extra TLC with every ride.
More Than a Pad: The Saddle Blanket Collection
Sometimes, you want to add a pop of color or a layer of style without changing your entire pad setup. That’s where the Best Ever Saddle Blanket Collection comes in. These aren't your typical saddle pads; they are beautifully woven blankets designed to be layered over your existing pad. With over 70 vibrant colors to choose from, you can easily coordinate with your show outfit, express your personal style, or simply switch up your look. It’s a versatile and fun way to customize your horse tack, giving you endless options for a polished and eye-catching appearance in the arena or on the trail.
How to Match a Pad to Your Horse and Discipline
Once you’ve narrowed down the collection, getting the size right is the final step. A simple way to find the correct length is to measure your saddle’s skirt and add two to three inches. This ensures you have enough pad coverage in the front and back without excess bulk. If you’re still on the fence, Best Ever Pads offers free fitting assistance, which is a huge plus. You can text or email them photos of your horse’s back, both with and without a saddle, and their team will give you a personalized recommendation. This level of support helps ensure you invest in a pad that truly works for you and your horse.
Using the Best Ever Saddle Fitting Guide
If you’re not a professional saddle fitter, figuring out the perfect pad can feel a bit intimidating. The good news is, you don’t have to be an expert. Best Ever Pads offers free, personalized fitting assistance to take all the guesswork out of the equation. The process is surprisingly straightforward: just take a few clear photos of your horse’s back—one from the side and one from behind, both with and without your saddle on. Then, you can text or email the photos directly to their team. Their experts will analyze your horse's build and provide a tailored recommendation for the best pad collection, wool type, and thickness.
This service is incredibly valuable because it goes far beyond generic advice. The team looks closely at your horse's unique shape, considering everything from high withers and a dipped back to broad shoulders that need extra room. Their goal is to recommend a pad that provides targeted support, distributes pressure evenly, and ultimately prevents soreness. By taking advantage of their expertise, you can feel confident that you’re investing in a piece of horse tack that is truly customized for your horse’s comfort and performance. It’s a simple step that helps ensure a better, more comfortable ride for both of you.
Not the Perfect Fit? Here's the Return Policy
Investing in a quality saddle pad is a big decision, and you want to feel confident that it’s the right choice for you and your horse. If you’re on the fence, knowing the return policy can make all the difference. Best Ever Pads has a straightforward process if things don’t work out, which is always a good sign. It shows they stand behind their products and want their customers to be happy. Let’s walk through what you can expect if you need to make a return or an exchange.
Your 90-Day Full Refund Guarantee
Here’s the deal: Best Ever Pads offers a generous 90-day return policy for a full refund if you’re not completely satisfied. You’ll need your receipt, and the refund will be for the full amount minus the shipping costs. This gives you plenty of time to decide if the pad is the right fit. One important thing to keep in mind is that this policy doesn’t apply to pads with customized logos or brand names. Because those are made just for you, they can’t be refunded. So, be sure to double-check all your custom details before you finalize your order.
How to Make an Exchange
Sometimes a refund isn't what you need—you just need a different pad. The good news is that exchanges are also an option. If you have an unused pad but misplaced the receipt, you can still exchange it for another item of the same or lesser value. Even better, if you’ve used the pad and find it isn’t fitting your horse correctly, you can exchange it for a different pad collection within that same 90-day window. This is a huge plus, as it gives you a real-world opportunity to test the fit and function where it matters most: on your horse.
How Does Their Return Policy Compare?
So, how does this stack up? A 90-day window is quite competitive in the world of horse tack and shows a strong belief in their product. The flexibility to exchange a used pad that doesn't fit is a standout feature that you don’t always see. The main limitation is the no-refund rule on custom work, which is fairly standard for personalized items but still something to be aware of. Here at Hooves and Paws, we believe in giving you complete peace of mind, which is why we offer our own 365-day satisfaction guarantee on the products we carry.
Beyond the Pad: Other Products and Programs
While Best Ever Pads built its reputation on world-class saddle pads, the brand has grown to offer much more. They’ve expanded their lineup to include other high-quality gear and have created programs that build a strong community around their products. These additions show a commitment not just to performance but also to the equestrian lifestyle as a whole. From practical accessories that make horse care easier to loyalty programs that reward dedicated customers, they offer several ways to connect with the brand beyond your initial purchase. Let’s look at some of the other products and programs that make Best Ever a well-rounded name in the industry.
Hats, Apparel, and Tail Bags
To complement their tack, Best Ever offers a range of apparel and accessories, including their popular and highly practical tail bags. The Best Ever Tail Bags are designed with the same attention to detail as their pads, made from a durable woven fabric that stands up to daily use. They feature double secure Velcro straps to ensure they stay put, helping to keep your horse's tail clean, tangle-free, and protected from breakage. It’s a simple but effective tool for maintaining a healthy, beautiful tail with minimal effort. This thoughtful expansion into other essential gear shows they understand the day-to-day needs of horse owners.
The Customer Rewards Program
Best Ever Pads values its loyal customers and shows it through a dedicated Customer Rewards Program. This program is a straightforward way for you to get more value out of your purchases. By signing up, you can earn points on every order, which can then be redeemed for discounts on future gear. It’s a great incentive for riders who have fallen in love with the brand and plan to come back for more. Loyalty programs like this are a fantastic way for companies to give back to their community, making you feel appreciated for your continued support while helping you save on the high-quality tack you rely on.
Partnering Through the Affiliate Program
If you’re a true fan of the brand and love sharing your favorite gear with fellow riders, the Best Ever Affiliate Program might be a perfect fit. This program allows you to earn a commission by promoting their products on your social media channels, blog, or website. It’s a win-win: you get to share products you genuinely use and believe in, and you earn a little something for spreading the word. As the company says, you can "start earning today by sharing the products you love." It’s an excellent opportunity for equestrian influencers and content creators to partner with a brand they trust while helping other riders discover quality gear.
The Final Verdict: Are Best Ever Pads Worth It?
So, what’s the bottom line? Deciding if a Best Ever Pad is the right choice for you and your horse feels like a big commitment, and it is. It’s an investment in your horse’s comfort and your performance in the saddle. While the brand has a loyal following, it’s not without its critics. The truth is, there isn’t a simple yes or no answer. The value of a Best Ever Pad really comes down to your specific needs, your horse’s conformation, and what you prioritize in your gear. To help you make the best decision, let’s break down what fellow riders are saying about quality, performance, and when these pads truly shine.
How to Spot a Genuine Best Ever Pad
One of the most common concerns you’ll hear from riders involves the consistency of the pads. Some customers have been disappointed to receive a pad that feels thinner or less substantial than they expected, leading them to question its quality. When you’re investing in premium equipment, you want to be confident you’re getting the real deal. This is why purchasing from an authorized retailer is so important. It ensures you receive an authentic product and have support if something isn’t right. At Hooves and Paws, we stand behind every product we sell with a 365-day satisfaction guarantee, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Performance: Expectation vs. Reality
When it comes to performance, opinions are split. Some riders feel the pads don’t hold up to rigorous, long-term use as well as some competitors, like 5 Star. They report issues with compression and durability over time. However, many other riders find that their Best Ever Pads perform beautifully, offering a great fit and excellent moisture-wicking properties for their horses. Performance often depends on the specific horse, the type of riding, and how the pad is cared for. What works perfectly for a weekend trail rider might not be the best fit for a competitive barrel racer, so consider your discipline and how much wear and tear your horse tack typically endures.
Is a Best Ever Pad Right for You?
Despite the mixed feedback, there’s a reason so many riders are passionate about their Best Ever Pads. For many, these pads are the perfect solution. They are especially loved by riders who need a specific fit for a hard-to-fit horse or those who want to create a completely custom look. If you’ve struggled to find a pad that sits correctly on your horse’s back or if you love the idea of designing gear that reflects your personal style, this brand is hard to beat. For riders whose horses move comfortably and stay dry under these pads, they are absolutely worth the investment and quickly become a go-to piece of equipment in the tack room.
How to Care for Your Best Ever Pad
Investing in a quality saddle pad is an investment in your horse's comfort and performance. To get the most out of your Best Ever Pad, a little routine care is all it takes. Proper cleaning and storage will not only extend the life of your pad but also ensure it continues to provide the support and protection your horse needs for every ride. Think of it as simple maintenance for one of the most important pieces of your gear. Taking these small steps will keep your pad looking and feeling great for years to come.
Simple Steps for Cleaning Your Pad
One of the best features of a Best Ever Pad is the high-quality wool, which is naturally breathable and fantastic at pulling sweat away from your horse’s back. This helps keep them cool and comfortable, but it also means your pad is absorbing a lot of grime. To keep it in top condition, regular cleaning is a must. Brushing off dirt and hair after each ride is a great habit to get into. For a deeper clean, you can gently hose it down and hang it to dry. This prevents the buildup of sweat and dirt, which can cause the wool fibers to become stiff and less effective over time. A clean pad is a comfortable pad.
How to Store Your Pad Correctly
How you store your pad between rides makes a big difference in its longevity. Tossing it in a heap on the floor is a recipe for a misshapen, mildewy mess. Instead, store your pad in a cool, dry place where it can breathe. You can lay it flat, wool-side up, or hang it over a saddle rack. The key is to avoid folding or creasing it, which can break down the fibers. It’s also important to know when a pad has done its job. Over time, the wool will compress where the saddle sits. Once it feels thin and packed down, it’s time to replace it to ensure your horse continues to get the cushioning they need.
Pro Tips to Make Your Pad Last for Years
Want to maximize the lifespan of your pad? A few proactive habits can make all the difference. First, if your horse has unique conformation, like high withers or a sway back, consider a pad from the CEO Collection. These are designed with extra support built right in, which can lead to more even wear. Second, be vigilant about checking for compressed wool. Continuing to use a worn-out pad can impact your horse's comfort and performance, so replacing it on time is a key part of your overall horse tack maintenance. Finally, if you’re ordering a custom pad, remember to plan ahead. Simple custom options can take a couple of weeks, while more intricate designs may take several months to create.
Where Can You Buy a Best Ever Pad?
Once you’ve decided a Best Ever Pad is the right choice for you and your horse, the next step is figuring out where to get one. You have a couple of great options, each with its own set of benefits. Whether you’re looking for a fully custom design or need a reliable pad shipped to you fast, here’s what you need to know to make the best purchase.
Should You Buy Directly from the Website?
If you have a very specific vision for your saddle pad, going directly to the source is your best bet. The official Best Ever Pads website is the place to go for full customization. You can design your pad from the ground up, choosing everything from the leather color to custom embroidery and logos. Because these saddle pads are handmade in the USA to your exact specifications, you’ll get a truly one-of-a-kind piece. This is the ideal route for riders who want to perfectly match their tack or add a personal brand to their gear. Just be prepared for a longer wait time while your custom pad is being crafted.
The Benefits of Buying from an Authorized Retailer
For riders who need a top-quality pad without the wait, an authorized retailer is the way to go. When you shop with us at Hooves and Paws, every Best Ever Pad you see is in stock and ready to head out the door today. We offer free, same-day shipping so you can get your new pad fast. Plus, you get the benefit of our 30 years of expertise and our unbeatable 365-day satisfaction guarantee. If you don’t see the exact style you’re looking for in our collection of horse tack, just let us know. We can often special order it for you, giving you the best of both worlds.
What to Know Before You Buy
Before you click "add to cart," it's smart to know the return policy. If you buy a standard pad directly from the manufacturer, they offer a 90-day window for a full refund, minus the shipping costs. However, it’s crucial to remember that any customized pads with logos or brands are considered final sale and cannot be returned. Be sure to double-check all your details before submitting a custom order. This is one reason many riders prefer shopping with us. We stand behind every product we sell with our own 365-day satisfaction guarantee, giving you a full year of peace of mind with your purchase.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a Best Ever Pad actually last? The lifespan of your pad really depends on how often you ride and how you care for it. For a rider who trains daily, the pad will naturally show wear faster than one used for weekend trail rides. While some riders feel they don't have the same rugged longevity as denser pads, you can greatly extend its life with proper care. Regularly brushing off dirt and storing it correctly will keep the wool performing its best for years.
Which collection is the right starting point for my horse? The best way to decide is to think about your horse's specific needs. The OG Collection is a fantastic all-around choice for most horses and disciplines—it's a reliable workhorse. If your horse is sensitive or could use a little extra cushion, the softer Kush Collection is an excellent option. For horses with tricky conformations like high withers or a sway back, the CEO Collection is specifically designed to provide targeted support and improve fit.
Can I just throw my pad in the washing machine? Please don't! Machine washing can damage the wool fibers, causing them to break down and lose their shape and supportive qualities. The best way to clean your pad is to brush it regularly to remove hair and dirt. For a deeper clean, you can gently hose it down with cold water and hang it to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight.
Will a Best Ever Pad fix my poor saddle fit? A high-quality pad can certainly improve comfort and help with minor fit issues by distributing pressure more evenly. However, a pad is not a cure for a saddle that truly doesn't fit your horse. If your saddle is causing pinching, bridging, or soreness, your first step should always be to work with a professional saddle fitter. A good pad is meant to complement a well-fitting saddle, not correct a bad one.
How long does it take to receive a custom pad? The timeline for a custom pad can vary quite a bit. If you're ordering a pad with simple customizations, like a specific leather color, you might receive it in a few weeks. For more intricate designs involving detailed tooling, hand-painting, or embroidery, you should plan for a longer wait, potentially several months. It's always a good idea to order well in advance if you need it for a specific show or event.
