Wither & Back Pads

Not necessarily. A correctly fitted saddle used with a suitable saddlecloth is often all that's required. Wither pads are generally used where additional cushioning or support is beneficial for the individual horse.

No. Pads are designed to fine-tune the fit of an otherwise suitable saddle or accommodate temporary changes in your horse's shape. If a saddle is fundamentally the wrong shape or size, it should be professionally adjusted or replaced.

Prolite pads use lightweight, high-performance foam designed to absorb shock and distribute pressure. Their shim systems also allow minor adjustments to saddle balance as your horse changes shape.

Many synthetic pads are machine washable, while sheepskin products often require specialised wool detergents and gentle care. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

The answer depends on why the saddle is sitting out of balance. Before adding a riser, it's important to determine whether the issue is caused by the saddle fit, the horse's conformation or changes in muscle development. If you're unsure, our experienced team can help assess which option is most appropriate.

Bridging occurs when the saddle panels make contact at the front and back but leave a gap through the middle, creating uneven pressure. While shim systems can sometimes help with minor bridging, it's important to identify the underlying cause before adding extra padding.

Ascot Expert Tip

Pads should solve a specific problem—not become a permanent collection under your saddle. If you find yourself continually adding more pads to make a saddle comfortable, it's usually a sign that the saddle fit should be reassessed.