Your saddle pad is the unsung hero of your tack collection. While the saddle gets all the attention, the pad is doing the real work: protecting your horse’s back, wicking sweat, and ensuring a stable fit. A cheap pad can lead to discomfort and even long-term soundness issues. Investing in a premium pad is an investment in your horse's health. Each best ever saddle pad is handmade in the USA with superior materials like high-grade wool and supportive foam. When you choose gear built to last, you're choosing a better, more comfortable ride for your horse.
Key Takeaways
- Match the Pad to Your Horse and Discipline: The right pad starts with your horse's specific needs—like wither height or back sensitivity—and the demands of your riding style. A proper fit ensures even pressure distribution, which is the foundation for a comfortable and successful ride.
- Prioritize High-Quality Materials: Investing in a pad made from superior materials like wool felt or advanced foam directly impacts your horse's comfort and back health. These materials excel at absorbing shock, wicking away moisture, and distributing pressure, making them a worthwhile investment for any serious rider.
- Extend Your Pad’s Life with Proper Care: A premium saddle pad is a long-term investment in your horse's comfort, and simple maintenance is key to protecting it. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and knowing when to replace a worn-out pad ensures it continues to perform effectively ride after ride.
Finding the Perfect 'Best Ever' Saddle Pad
Choosing the right saddle pad is a critical decision for your horse's comfort and performance. It’s more than a simple layer; it’s a key piece of equipment that absorbs shock, distributes pressure, and wicks away sweat. That's why so many riders trust 'Best Ever' pads. They combine thoughtful design with quality materials to support your horse's back. We're here to walk you through their most popular collections so you can make a confident choice for your equine partner.
A Look at the Company: Best Ever Pads
Handmade in California
Best Ever Pads stands out for its deep commitment to quality, and it all starts with where and how they're made. Every single saddle pad is handmade in Los Osos, California, which means each one gets the hands-on attention needed to meet incredibly high standards. This isn't about mass production; it's about craftsmanship. The team prides itself on using superior materials that are built for durability and, most importantly, your horse's comfort. When you choose a Best Ever Pad, you're getting a piece of equipment that was thoughtfully constructed by people who understand the demands of riding and the importance of protecting your horse's back.
With over 40 years of experience in the horse industry and more than 17 years dedicated to making pads, the team at Best Ever knows exactly what works. They use high-grade wool and supportive foam, materials chosen specifically for their ability to provide the best possible support. This isn't just about cushioning; it's about creating a pad that fits well, lasts for years, and keeps your horse comfortable under the saddle. Their deep expertise has made them a trusted name among riders who refuse to compromise on their horse's health. It's this dedication to quality that makes their pads a standout piece of any horse tack collection.
Beyond performance, Best Ever Pads also offers a fantastic level of customization. This allows you to create a pad that truly reflects your personal style. You can choose from a wide variety of colors, add custom piping, and even include embroidery to make your saddle pad one-of-a-kind. This attention to detail, combined with their unwavering dedication to quality construction, is why so many riders consider them a top choice. You get a pad that not only performs exceptionally well but also looks great. It’s a perfect combination of function and personal expression, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious equestrian.
Meet the 'Best Ever' Saddle Pad Lineup
Best Ever offers a fantastic range of pads, each with features tailored to different horses and riding disciplines. To make things easier, we've broken down their top collections. Think about your horse's build, your typical riding activities, and any saddle fit challenges you have as you read through these options.
The BHS Series: High-Tech Foam for Superior Support If you have a high-withered horse or struggle with saddle fit, the BHS Series is a game-changer. Its closed-cell foam insert distributes pressure evenly, providing incredible support and preventing pad breakdown. It’s an excellent choice for creating a stable, comfortable fit.
The OG Wool Pad: A Classic for Daily Rides The OG Wool Pad is a reliable workhorse for everyday riding. Made from classic wool felt, it's durable enough for daily training and versatile enough for performance events. Its natural properties make it a practical choice for a wide range of horse tack setups.
The Kush Pad: Ultimate Comfort for Your Horse For the horse that deserves extra luxury, the Kush Pad is the answer. Crafted from premium F11 grade wool, it’s incredibly dense and supportive. The Kush pad’s main goal is maximum comfort, making it ideal for long rides or sensitive-backed horses needing superior shock absorption.
Custom Fleesar Pads: Designed Just for You Why settle for off-the-shelf when you can create a personalized pad? The Custom Fleesar pads let you choose colors and details to match your style. More importantly, you can build a pad that meets your horse's unique conformational needs, making it a wonderful investment.
Affordable Felt & Fleece: Great Quality on a Budget A top-tier saddle pad doesn't have to be expensive. Best Ever's felt and fleece pads offer excellent durability and comfort at an accessible price. They are perfect for everyday use or as a backup, proving you can find best selling products without compromising on quality.
The Cadillac Series
For horses with high withers or those working hard in demanding disciplines like roping, the Cadillac Series is a top-tier choice. This pad features extra foam strategically placed to support the saddle and prevent it from pinching or creating pressure points. The design ensures a secure and stable fit, which is essential for both your horse's comfort and your confidence in the saddle. By providing this targeted support, the Cadillac pad helps your horse move freely and comfortably, even during intense activity. It’s a smart addition to any horse tack setup where performance and proper fit are non-negotiable.
The Fleece Series for Sensitive Skin
If your horse has sensitive skin, finding the right pad can make a world of difference in their comfort and attitude. The Fleece Series was designed with these horses in mind. It features a soft, plush fleece lining that feels great against their back while offering excellent shock absorption and moisture-wicking properties. This helps keep their skin dry and free from irritation during long rides. A comfortable horse is a happy and focused partner, and this pad’s thoughtful design directly contributes to a better riding experience for both of you, making it a popular choice for conscientious riders.
The Saddle Blanket (Navajo) Collection
Who says functional gear can't be stylish? The Saddle Blanket (Navajo) Collection proves you can have both. With over 70 vibrant color options, these blankets let you express your personal style and create a polished, coordinated look. They are designed to be versatile, so you can use one over your primary pad to add a pop of color for a show or a clinic. This flexibility makes them a fantastic and fun addition to any rider's tack collection, allowing you to easily switch up your look without compromising on quality or function.
Why Invest in a 'Best Ever' Saddle Pad?
When you’re gearing up for a ride, your saddle pad might seem like a simple layer between your horse and your saddle. But the right pad is so much more than that—it’s a critical piece of equipment that directly impacts your horse’s comfort, back health, and overall performance. Investing in a high-quality pad, like those from Best Ever, is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your equine partner. These pads aren’t just built to look good; they’re engineered to perform and last.
Think of it this way: a cheap, poorly made pad can break down quickly, create painful pressure points, and trap heat, leading to soreness and an unhappy horse. A premium pad, on the other hand, provides consistent support, distributes weight evenly, and protects your horse’s back ride after ride. While the initial cost might be higher, the long-term benefits—from durability that saves you money on replacements to the peace of mind that comes from knowing your horse is comfortable—make it a worthwhile investment in your shared passion. The entire collection of horse tack we carry is chosen with this philosophy in mind.
Experience the Quality of Premium Wool
There’s a tangible difference in gear that’s made by hand, and Best Ever pads are a perfect example. Each one is handmade in the USA, which means a real person with an eye for detail is ensuring every stitch is perfect. They use high-quality wool felt, which is known for its incredible durability and natural shock absorption. Plus, the pads are finished with top-grade wear leathers and spine reinforcement. This level of craftsmanship ensures your pad won’t just fall apart after a few seasons of hard riding; it’s built to withstand the demands of daily work while maintaining its shape and supportive qualities for years.
Understanding Wool Density: OG vs. KUSH
When you see options like the OG and KUSH pads, the main difference comes down to wool density, which directly affects your horse's comfort. Think of the OG Wool Pad as your trusty, all-around performer. It’s made from a classic, durable wool felt that’s perfect for daily training and versatile enough for most performance events. It’s a reliable workhorse. The KUSH Pad, on the other hand, is like a luxury upgrade. It’s crafted from incredibly dense, premium F11 grade wool, offering maximum support and shock absorption. This makes it the ideal choice for long trail rides, demanding disciplines, or any horse with a sensitive back that needs extra cushioning. Understanding this distinction helps you select the right piece of horse tack for your specific needs.
How Advanced Foam Protects Your Horse
One of the standout features of certain Best Ever pads, like the BHS Series, is the use of advanced closed-cell foam. This isn’t just filler material; it’s a technical feature designed to solve a common problem: uneven saddle pressure. The foam insert helps distribute the weight from the saddle bars more evenly across your horse’s back. This significantly reduces the risk of developing sore spots and muscle fatigue, especially during long rides or intense training sessions. It also helps the pad itself last longer by preventing the wool from breaking down in high-pressure areas, ensuring you get consistent performance every time you tack up.
Breathable Materials to Keep Your Horse Dry
A hot, sweaty back is an uncomfortable back. Best Ever pads primarily use wool, a material that’s naturally brilliant at temperature regulation. Unlike synthetic pads that can trap heat and moisture against the skin, wool breathes. It wicks sweat away from your horse’s body, allowing it to evaporate and keeping their back cooler and drier. This natural breathability not only improves comfort but also helps maintain healthy skin by reducing the buildup of bacteria that can thrive in warm, damp environments. It’s a simple but effective feature that makes a huge difference in your horse’s well-being after every ride.
Find a Style That's Uniquely You
While performance and comfort are the top priorities, who doesn’t love having gear that reflects their personal style? Best Ever Pads truly shines here, offering a huge range of custom design options. You can choose from countless colors, patterns, and wear leather designs to create a pad that’s uniquely yours. This is more than just a fun bonus; it allows you to get a pad that perfectly matches your discipline and the rest of your gear. Whether you’re in the show ring or out on the ranch, you can design a pad that not only performs at the highest level but also looks sharp alongside our other best-selling products.
Custom Piping and Embroidery Options
The personalization doesn't stop with the main pad color and wear leathers. You can take it a step further with custom piping—that clean, finished edge that frames the pad. Choosing a contrasting color for the piping can make your pad stand out, or you can select a complementary shade to tie your entire look together. For a truly one-of-a-kind touch, Best Ever also offers custom embroidery. This is your chance to add your initials, your horse's name, or even your ranch brand directly onto the wear leathers. These finishing touches make a great piece of equipment truly your own, helping you create a cohesive set of horse tack that reflects your dedication and personal flair.
Which 'Best Ever' Pad Fits Your Discipline?
Choosing the right saddle pad isn't just about looks—it's about matching your gear to your activity. Whether you're spending long days on the ranch, training in the arena, or enjoying a quiet trail, the right pad ensures your horse is comfortable, protected, and ready to perform. Best Ever Pads are designed for riders who expect top-tier performance, no matter their discipline. Let's find the perfect fit for the way you ride.
Built for the Ranch: Western Pads
If your days involve roping, cutting, or covering miles of pasture, you need a pad that can handle the pressure. Western disciplines demand a lot from both horse and rider, and a durable saddle pad is non-negotiable. Best Ever pads are specifically crafted for this kind of high-intensity work, providing the shock absorption and stability needed to keep your horse comfortable all day long. A quality wool or felt pad from our horse tack collection will protect your horse’s back during quick stops and sharp turns, ensuring they stay sound and focused on the job.
Precision in the Arena: English Pads
In the arena, precision is everything. English saddle pads are designed to provide a close-contact feel while supporting your horse’s athletic movements. Many modern pads feature moisture-wicking linings and breathable fabrics that help keep your horse’s back cool and dry during intense training sessions. The best pad is one that works seamlessly with your saddle, allowing for freedom of movement through the shoulder and back. Whether you're schooling dressage or jumping a course, the right pad offers the support your horse needs without any unnecessary bulk.
When Your Horse Needs Extra Support
Sometimes, a standard pad isn't enough. If you have a horse with high withers, sensitive muscles, or are working with a saddle that doesn't fit perfectly, a therapeutic pad can make a world of difference. The Best Ever BHS Series, for example, includes a 3/8” closed-cell foam insert that helps distribute saddle pressure more evenly across the horse's back. This targeted support can reduce soreness and prevent the pad from breaking down over the saddle's bars, offering a more comfortable and secure ride for horses that need a little extra help.
Your Everyday, Do-It-All Pad
Let’s be honest—many of us don’t stick to just one discipline. If you split your time between the trail and the arena or ride multiple horses, an all-purpose pad is a practical and versatile solution. These pads are designed to function well under both Western and English saddles, offering a balanced combination of cushioning, breathability, and durability. An all-purpose pad gives you the flexibility to switch up your routine without having to switch up your gear, making it a smart and economical choice for the well-rounded equestrian.
How a Quality Saddle Pad Changes Your Ride
A great saddle pad is more than just a layer of fabric between your horse and your saddle. It’s a fundamental piece of equipment that directly impacts your horse’s well-being, your saddle’s longevity, and the quality of every ride. Think of it as the unsung hero of your tack setup—working hard to provide comfort, stability, and protection. When you invest in a quality pad, you're investing in a better partnership with your horse.
Prioritize Your Horse's Comfort and Back Health
The most important job of a saddle pad is to protect your horse’s back. During a ride, your weight and the saddle create pressure points. A high-quality pad, especially one made from materials like pressed wool felt, excels at absorbing shock and redistributing that pressure evenly. This simple function is key to preventing sore spots, muscle fatigue, and long-term back issues. A comfortable horse is a happy and willing partner, and it all starts with ensuring their back health is supported with the right horse tack.
Get a More Secure and Stable Saddle Fit
Even a well-made saddle might not fit perfectly on its own. A quality pad helps bridge the gap, creating a more secure and stable connection. It fills in minor conformational dips and prevents the saddle from shifting, rocking, or slipping during movement. Some pads even include closed-cell foam inserts specifically designed to distribute pressure over the bars of the saddle. This not only enhances your horse's comfort but also gives you a more balanced and secure seat for a confident ride.
Perform Your Best in Training and Competition
A horse that’s free from discomfort is a horse that can focus on its job. When a saddle pad effectively manages pressure and heat, your horse can move more freely and respond to your cues with greater willingness. This translates directly to better performance, whether you’re navigating a tricky trail, working cattle, or competing in the arena. By ensuring your horse stays comfortable and protected, you’re setting you both up for success and building a stronger, more trusting partnership.
Extend the Life of Your Saddle
Your saddle is one of the biggest investments you'll make as a rider, and a good saddle pad is its first line of defense. It acts as a crucial barrier, absorbing sweat, dirt, and grime that would otherwise soak into the leather underside of your saddle. This not only keeps your saddle cleaner but also prevents the leather from degrading over time. Using a quality pad is a simple, effective way to preserve the condition and value of your saddle, ensuring it lasts for many years of shared adventures.
How Much Does a 'Best Ever' Saddle Pad Cost?
Investing in a high-quality saddle pad is one of the best things you can do for your horse’s comfort and your saddle’s longevity. While the 'Best Ever' brand is known for its premium quality, they offer fantastic options across several price points. Whether you're a weekend trail rider or a competitive professional, there’s a pad that fits your needs and your budget. Let's walk through the different tiers so you can find the perfect match for you and your horse.
Starting Point: Felt & Fleece ($150-$250)
Don't let the term 'entry-level' fool you—these pads are workhorses. In the $150 to $250 range, you’ll find durable felt and fleece options that are perfect for daily training and casual riding. They provide excellent cushioning and protection without the bells and whistles of higher-end models. These pads are a fantastic starting point for riders who want to experience the quality of a premium brand without a huge initial investment. They offer solid performance and are built to last, making them a smart and reliable choice for your horse tack collection.
The Sweet Spot: Wool & Foam ($250-$350)
If you spend a lot of time in the saddle, stepping up to the mid-range is a great move. Priced between $250 and $350, these pads often feature superior materials like high-grade wool or advanced foam cores. These materials offer better shock absorption, improved breathability to keep your horse cool, and a more contoured fit. This price point is the sweet spot for many serious riders, delivering a significant upgrade in performance and durability that you and your horse will feel on every ride. It’s an investment in comfort that pays off for years.
Top-Tier: Custom & Therapeutic ($350+)
For the ultimate in performance and personalized comfort, the premium tier is where you'll find the best of the best. Starting at $350 and up, these pads are designed for competitive riders and horses with specific needs. You can expect features like therapeutic inserts, custom-cut designs for a perfect fit, and the highest quality wool for maximum pressure distribution and moisture-wicking. Choosing a premium pad is about giving your equine partner the absolute best support, especially during demanding activities. It’s a true investment in their long-term back health and performance.
How to Find Sales and Discounts on Pads
Everyone loves a good deal, even when investing in top-tier gear. To find a 'Best Ever' pad at a great price, keep an eye on holiday sales and check the sale sections of trusted retailers. Signing up for email newsletters is another great way to get notified about special promotions. At Hooves and Paws, we believe in providing value beyond the price tag. That’s why we offer a 365-day satisfaction guarantee and free shipping on every order, so you can shop with confidence knowing you’re getting a great deal and the best service.
What to Consider: Durability and Competitor Comparisons
No single brand is the perfect fit for every horse and rider, and it’s always smart to look at the bigger picture before you invest in new gear. While Best Ever pads are a popular choice for good reason, hearing from other equestrians about their real-world experiences can help you make a confident decision. We believe in being transparent because we want you to be happy with your purchase for years to come. Looking at honest feedback on longevity, how these pads stack up against other top brands, and their role in saddle fit will give you the complete story.
Common Criticisms on Pad Longevity
When you browse through rider forums, one of the most common topics about Best Ever pads is their durability. Some users report that the pads don't last as long as they’d hoped, noting that they can break down, compress, or look worn out after just a few months of consistent use. One rider even described a worn pad as looking "like a rabid cat got to it." However, it's not a universal experience. Other riders mention that they find the pads softer and more flexible from the start, and there are plenty of stories, like one from a user whose 2007 pad is still going strong, that speak to their potential for a long life with proper care.
How They Compare to Brands Like 5 Star
In any discussion about premium wool pads, the name 5 Star inevitably comes up as a top competitor. Many riders who prioritize long-term durability often lean towards 5 Star, praising them for their high-quality felt and solid construction. In forums, you'll frequently see riders say that even though 5 Star pads might cost more upfront, they are "worth every penny" because they last for so long. This presents a key decision for buyers: weighing the initial features and price of different horse tack against its expected lifespan and long-term value.
Potential Saddle Fit Issues
A saddle pad plays a crucial role in the overall fit of your saddle, and this is where a pad can either help or hinder. It’s important to remember that a pad is part of a system, and what works for one horse might not work for another. For instance, one rider shared an experience where a Best Ever pad seemed to contribute to their mare's back becoming sore and needing a chiropractor. This is a powerful reminder that no pad can correct a poorly fitting saddle. If your horse has high withers, sensitive back muscles, or you're trying to improve a less-than-ideal saddle fit, the thickness and material of your pad are critical factors to consider.
Where Should You Buy Your Saddle Pad?
Once you’ve decided on the perfect saddle pad, the next step is finding a reliable place to buy it. The quality of your shopping experience—from customer service to shipping and returns—is just as important as the quality of the pad itself. You want to feel confident that you’re getting an authentic product backed by a seller who truly cares about you and your horse. To make sure your purchase is a great one from start to finish, focus on a few key things: finding a trusted dealer, understanding their guarantees, and knowing what to expect from their shipping process.
Why Buying from an Authorized Dealer Matters
Buying from an authorized dealer is the best way to ensure you’re getting a genuine Best Ever saddle pad. These sellers have a direct relationship with the manufacturer, which means they offer authentic products that meet the brand's high standards for quality and craftsmanship. As a family-owned business with over 30 years of expertise in the equine world, we understand the trust you place in us when choosing gear for your horse. Shopping with an established and knowledgeable retailer guarantees that you’re not only receiving a top-tier product but also have access to expert support if you have questions. It’s about buying a great pad and gaining a reliable partner for your riding journey.
Check the Shipping and Return Policies
A seller’s confidence in their products is often reflected in their return policy. You want to see a clear, fair guarantee that gives you peace of mind. If the pad arrives and isn’t quite right for your horse or your saddle, you shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to return it. That’s why we stand behind every product we sell with a 365-day satisfaction guarantee. This gives you an entire year to make sure your purchase meets your expectations. When a retailer offers a strong guarantee, it shows they are committed to your satisfaction and believe in the quality of their inventory, allowing you to shop without worry.
The Hooves and Paws Shipping and Satisfaction Guarantee
We know that once you've found the perfect pad, you want it as soon as possible. That’s why we’re committed to getting your order out the door quickly. We offer free shipping with no minimums to anywhere in the continental U.S., and if you place your order before 2 PM PST, we’ll ship it the very same day. This commitment to fast, reliable service is paired with our 365-day satisfaction guarantee. We want you to be completely happy with your purchase, so you have a full year to make sure your new pad is the right fit. It’s our way of making sure you can shop with total confidence, knowing we’re here to support you and your horse every step of the way.
Get Your Pad Faster with Free Shipping
When you’re excited about a new piece of tack, the last thing you want is a long wait or a surprise shipping fee at checkout. Getting your saddle pad quickly means you can start enjoying better rides sooner. We make it simple by offering free shipping on all orders in the continental U.S. with no minimum purchase required. Plus, if you place your order before 2 PM PST, we’ll ship it out the very same day. Fast and free shipping removes the final barrier to getting the high-quality horse tack you need, making the entire process smooth, predictable, and rewarding.
How to Choose the Right Saddle Pad for Your Horse
Finding the right saddle pad is about more than just style—it’s one of the most important choices you can make for your horse’s comfort and performance. A well-chosen saddle pad can protect your horse’s back, improve saddle fit, and enhance your overall riding experience. Think of it as the critical layer between your horse and the saddle, responsible for absorbing shock, wicking away sweat, and preventing painful rubbing. When you get it right, your horse moves more freely, and you can feel more secure in the saddle, leading to better communication and a stronger partnership. A good pad also helps preserve the life of your saddle by absorbing sweat and dirt. With so many options out there, from different materials to various thicknesses and shapes, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. But don't worry, it's simpler than it looks. Breaking the decision down into a few key steps will help you find the perfect match. By focusing on accurate measurements, the right material, and your horse’s specific build, you can confidently pick a pad that will last for years and keep your four-legged partner happy and comfortable on every ride.
Start with the Right Measurements
Before you even think about colors or materials, grab a measuring tape. An improperly sized pad can cause pressure points, bunch up under the saddle, or slip during your ride. The general rule is to have one to two inches of pad visible around the entire perimeter of your saddle. This ensures the pad fully protects your horse from any part of the saddle, including the skirts and rigging. To get it right, measure the length of your saddle from the front of the pommel to the back of the cantle, then add three to four inches to determine your ideal pad length. Getting the measurements right is the foundation for a great fit and a comfortable ride, ensuring all your horse tack works together seamlessly.
Most Popular Sizes and Thicknesses
Once you have your measurements, you'll see that Best Ever focuses on a few standard sizes that work for most saddles. The most common options are 30"x32" and 32"x32", which give you great coverage for typical Western saddles. For thickness, the 1" pad is the go-to for many riders and works perfectly as an all-around choice for daily training. If you have a well-fitting saddle and prefer a closer feel, the 3/4" pad is an excellent option. Conversely, if your horse could use extra cushioning or support, the 1.25" thickness provides superior shock absorption. Selecting the right combination is key to distributing pressure evenly and protecting your horse's back—the main purpose of any piece of quality horse tack.
Picking the Best Material and Thickness
The material of your saddle pad directly impacts your horse's comfort. Wool is a top choice for a reason. High-quality wool felt has an incredible ability to redistribute pressure, which helps prevent sore spots and keeps your horse comfortable even on long rides. It’s also breathable and wicks moisture away, keeping your horse’s back cooler and drier. While wool is fantastic, other materials like fleece can offer a soft cushion, and specialized foam can provide extra shock absorption. The thickness of the pad also matters. A thicker pad isn't always better; it can actually make a well-fitting saddle too tight. Choose a thickness that complements your saddle fit, rather than trying to correct a major issue.
Factor in Your Horse's Unique Needs
Every horse has a unique conformation, and the right saddle pad should account for that. Does your horse have high withers, a swayback, or particularly sensitive skin? There are pads designed specifically for these challenges. Some are contoured to provide more wither clearance, while others have built-in shims to help balance a saddle on a horse with a unique back shape. If your horse is prone to rubbing or has thin skin, look for pads with extra soft fleece lining. These are often designed to be extra comfortable for horses who need a little more TLC. Taking the time to find a pad that suits your horse’s individual build shows a deep commitment to their well-being.
Caring for Your 'Best Ever' Saddle Pad
A high-quality saddle pad is an investment in your horse's comfort and performance. Just like any other piece of essential gear, it needs a little TLC to do its job well for years to come. Proper care not only extends the life of your pad but also ensures it continues to provide the support and protection your horse needs on every ride. A clean, well-maintained pad prevents skin irritation and helps distribute pressure evenly. Taking a few extra minutes after you untack can make a world of difference. Here’s how to keep your Best Ever pad in top-notch condition.
A Guide to Cleaning Your Saddle Pad
After each ride, it’s a good habit to brush off any loose hair, dirt, and sweat with a soft curry or brush. When it’s time for a deeper clean, the method depends on the material. For wool pads, which are naturally antimicrobial and moisture-wicking, less is more. You can often just hang them to dry completely. For a more thorough wash, use cold water and a mild, pH-neutral soap designed for wool. Gently hand-wash the pad and rinse it thoroughly, as leftover soap residue can irritate your horse’s skin. Avoid harsh detergents and washing machines, which can damage the delicate fibers and cause the pad to lose its shape. A proper cleaning routine will keep your pad fresh and functional.
How to Store Your Pad Correctly
How you store your saddle pad is just as important as how you clean it. Tossing it over a narrow rail or hanging it by a corner can create permanent creases and pressure points that will translate to your horse's back. The best way to maintain your pad’s contoured shape is to store it flat, upside down, so the fibers can air out. If you’re short on space, a wide, rounded saddle pad rack that supports the entire width of the pad is a great alternative. This prevents the internal materials from compressing or shifting, ensuring it lays perfectly flat under your saddle for the next ride. Proper storage is a simple step that protects the pad’s structural integrity.
Signs It's Time for a New Pad
Even the best saddle pads have a lifespan. Over time and with regular use, the materials will start to compress and break down, losing their shock-absorbing properties. Regularly inspect your pad for signs of wear. Look for areas that feel thin or hard, especially under the saddle bars and cinch. If the pad has permanent indentations that don’t fluff back up or if you notice any rips, tears, or fraying seams, it’s time for a replacement. Using a worn-out pad can lead to discomfort, sores, and back problems for your horse. Investing in new horse tack when needed is a crucial part of responsible horse ownership and ensures every ride is a comfortable one.
Beyond the Pad: Company Programs and Resources
Choosing a brand like Best Ever means you're getting more than just a high-quality product; you're also gaining access to a community and resources designed to support you and your horse. The company goes the extra mile to help riders make informed decisions and rewards them for their loyalty. These programs are part of what makes their gear a smart investment for any serious equestrian. From ensuring a perfect fit to offering savings on future purchases, these resources add significant value to every pad they make.
Using the Saddle Fitting Guide
Best Ever Pads provides a comprehensive saddle fitting guide that takes the guesswork out of selecting the right pad. This resource is incredibly helpful for matching a pad to your horse’s specific conformation, whether they have high withers, a broad back, or sensitive areas. Using the guide helps you ensure the pad you choose will distribute pressure evenly, enhancing comfort and performance for both you and your horse. It’s an invaluable tool that empowers you to make the best decision, reinforcing the idea that a great ride starts with the right foundation and the perfect piece of horse tack.
The Best Ever Rewards Program
Loyalty should be rewarded, and Best Ever’s rewards program does just that. When you purchase their products, you can earn points that translate into real savings on future orders. This makes it easier to continue investing in the high-quality gear your horse deserves without stretching your budget. It’s a thoughtful way the brand gives back to its dedicated customers, encouraging riders to prioritize their horse's comfort and health. When you shop with a trusted retailer, you get the dual benefit of excellent service and access to brand perks like this, ensuring you always get the most value from your purchase.
The Affiliate Program for Influencers
For equestrian enthusiasts who genuinely love and use Best Ever pads, the company offers an affiliate program. This is a fantastic opportunity for influencers and riders to share their passion for quality gear with their followers and earn a commission on sales generated through their unique referral links. It allows you to monetize your expertise while promoting products that you truly believe in and that contribute to better horse welfare. It’s a program built on authentic recommendations, connecting riders with gear that can make a real difference, which is something we always stand behind with our own commitment to quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which 'Best Ever' pad is best for a horse with a sensitive back? If your horse needs extra TLC, both the Kush and the BHS Series are excellent choices, but they solve the problem in different ways. The Kush pad is made from incredibly dense, high-grade wool that provides superior shock absorption and cushioning. Think of it as the ultimate plush mattress for your horse. The
How do I know if I need a therapeutic pad like the BHS Series? You might consider a therapeutic pad if you notice tell-tale signs of uneven saddle pressure after a ride. Look for uneven sweat patterns or dry spots on your horse's back where the saddle sits, as this can indicate a pressure point. Other clues include a saddle that consistently shifts or a horse that seems sore or girthy. The BHS Series is designed to correct these minor imbalances by distributing weight more evenly, creating a more stable and comfortable fit.
What's the main difference between the OG Wool and the Kush pads? While both are fantastic wool pads, the key difference lies in the density and grade of the wool. The OG Wool pad is your reliable, everyday workhorse—durable, supportive, and perfect for daily training and general riding. The Kush pad is a step up in luxury and performance. It uses a higher grade of wool felt that is much denser, offering maximum shock absorption and comfort for horses in demanding disciplines or those who need extra support on long rides.
Is a thicker pad always better for my horse's comfort? Not necessarily. This is a common misconception, but a pad that's too thick can actually make a well-fitting saddle too tight, creating more pressure instead of relieving it. The goal is to choose a thickness that complements your saddle fit. If your saddle already fits your horse well, a standard thickness is usually best. Thicker pads are most useful for providing extra shock absorption or helping with minor fit issues, but they aren't a one-size-fits-all solution for comfort.
How often should I really be washing my wool saddle pad? With wool, less is more. Thanks to wool's natural antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties, you don't need to wash it after every ride. The most important thing is to brush it clean after each use and let it air dry completely. You should only consider a full wash when the pad becomes stiff with caked-on dirt and sweat. Over-washing can strip the natural oils from the wool fibers, so focus on consistent daily brushing to keep it in great shape.
