Ever feel a deep connection with your horse when you ride close, feeling every muscle move beneath you? Riding bareback offers that incredible feeling. But let’s be honest, sometimes bareback can be a bit too much “feeling” – ouch! That’s where the bareback pad comes in, promising comfort for both you and your horse without completely losing that close connection.
However, stepping into the world of bareback pads can feel like navigating a maze. Should you choose thick padding or something thin? Leather or fleece? These choices directly impact your balance, your horse’s comfort, and how secure you feel in the saddle. Choosing the wrong pad leads to slipping, pinching, or a sore back for your equine partner.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great bareback pad. You will learn the key features to look for so you can confidently pick the perfect pad that fits your riding style and your horse’s needs.
Ready to find the ultimate gear for comfortable, connected riding? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about choosing the best bareback pad for your next adventure.
Top Bareback Pad Recommendations
- Microsuede for Stability: Crafted from a breathable, synthetic, and non-slip microsuede fabric to give you maximum grip and stability, you can ride safely and leisurely on your bareback rides while experiencing close contact and connection between you and your horse!
- Lightweight & Soft Padding: Designed with your horse’s comfort in mind, this Harrison Howard bareback riding pad provides enough padding for your horse’s back during riding. Plush Berber fleece underside provides cushioning during riding and reduces pressure on your horse’s spine.
- Plush Berber Fleece Underside: The interior is padded with plush fleece for added cushioning and buffer, relieving loads of pressure off your horse’s back.
- Comes Complete with Matching Girth: Includes a removable and comfy fleece-covered matching girth that adjusts on both sides. This makes an ideal set to add to your horse’s tack collection as it is convenient to throw on for a more comfortable and leisurely bareback ride.
- Universal Fit: Bareback pad & girth set, standard size fits most horses, change the cinch to a regular Neoprene saddle cinch and it works surprisingly well! Easy to care for - Brush off with a gentle brush and then wipe with a damp cloth. This bareback pad set can be washed on a gentle cycle in cold water and air-dried.
- Microsuede for Stability: Crafted from a breathable, synthetic, and non-slip microsuede fabric to give you maximum grip and stability, you can ride safely and leisurely on your bareback rides while experiencing close contact and connection between you and your horse!
- Lightweight & Soft Padding: Designed with your horse’s comfort in mind, this Harrison Howard bareback riding pad provides enough padding for your horse’s back during riding. Plush Berber fleece underside provides cushioning during riding and reduces pressure on your horse’s spine.
- Plush Berber Fleece Underside: The interior is padded with plush fleece for added cushioning and buffer, relieving loads of pressure off your horse’s back.
- Comes Complete with Matching Girth: Includes a removable and comfy fleece-covered matching girth that adjusts on both sides. This makes an ideal set to add to your horse’s tack collection as it is convenient to throw on for a more comfortable and leisurely bareback ride.
- Universal Fit: Bareback pad & girth set, standard size fits most horses, change the cinch to a regular Neoprene saddle cinch and it works surprisingly well! Easy to care for - Brush off with a gentle brush and then wipe with a damp cloth. This bareback pad set can be washed on a gentle cycle in cold water and air-dried.
- Made with a Navajo style top for comfort and good looks
- Strong web hand hold
- High impact polymar stirrups
- Heavy felt center and fleece bottom
- Girth and stirrup straps
- Microsuede for Stability: Crafted from a breathable, synthetic, and non-slip microsuede fabric to give you maximum grip and stability, you can ride safely and leisurely on your bareback rides while experiencing close contact and connection between you and your horse!
- Lightweight & Soft Padding: Designed with your horse’s comfort in mind, this Harrison Howard bareback riding pad provides enough padding for your horse’s back during riding. Plush Berber fleece underside provides cushioning during riding and reduces pressure on your horse’s spine.
- Plush Berber Fleece Underside: The interior is padded with plush fleece for added cushioning and buffer, relieving loads of pressure off your horse’s back.
- Comes Complete with Matching Girth: Includes a removable and comfy fleece-covered matching girth that adjusts on both sides. This makes an ideal set to add to your horse’s tack collection as it is convenient to throw on for a more comfortable and leisurely bareback ride.
- Universal Fit: Bareback pad & girth set, standard size fits most horses, change the cinch to a regular Neoprene saddle cinch and it works surprisingly well! Easy to care for - Brush off with a gentle brush and then wipe with a damp cloth. This bareback pad set can be washed on a gentle cycle in cold water and air-dried.
- Soft Comfortable Fabric: Crafted from breathable, non-slip faux suede material, offering exceptional grip and stability. Features a built-in thickened shock-absorbing layer and a soft lambswool underside, delivering an ultimate comfortable riding experience for both horse and rider.
- Secure and Stable Design: Equipped with non-slip handles, enabling riders to maintain balance during sudden movements or quick maneuvers, enhancing control confidence.
- Adjustable girth: Features a removable suede-padded girth with dual-side adjustability, easily accommodating horses of various builds for a comfortable, snug fit in this saddleless riding gear.
- Convenient storage: The right pocket is designed for water bottles with an elastic strap; while the left multi-pocket holds essentials like keys, phones, or horse treats, secured by a Velcro closure
- Ideal Gift Choice: Crafted with excellent attention to detail, these Bareback saddle Pads make a thoughtful and practical gift for horse lovers. Whether for a birthday, Christmas, holiday, or anniversary, they’re a perfect choice for both men and women who enjoy riding.
- Optimal Comfort & Support: Crafted from a breathable, synthetic, and non-slip microsuede fabric to give you maximum grip and stability. Thickened shock-absorbing materials paired with a thick fleece underside ensure maximum comfort for both horse and rider.
- Safety First: Equipped with a safe holding handle, riders can maintain stability and control during unexpected movements or maneuvers.
- Tailored Fit: Includes a removable and comfy fleece-covered matching girth that adjusts on both sides. This makes an ideal set to add to your horse's tack collection as it is convenient to throw on for a more comfortable and leisurely bareback ride.
- Convenient Storage: The right pocket is designed to accommodate a water bottle and features an elastic strap for secure storage. The left pocket is multipurpose, perfectly sized for carrying essentials such as keys, a phone, and horse treats, and it closes securely with touch fastening tape.
- Durable & Stylish: Designed for longevity and made with high-quality materials that don't compromise on aesthetics. Easy to care for - Brush off with a gentle brush and then wipe with a damp cloth. This bareback pad set can be washed on a gentle cycle in cold water and air-dried.
- Wool Blanket Top Saddle Pad: Bareback pad carefully designed with high-quality single weave wool top to evenly cool your horse; our western horse saddle pad is ideal for comfortable and stable riding
- Crafted for Comfort: Features soft 3/4" fleece liner and merino wool fleece girth for exceptional comfort and rider handle for performance while the pad spine and top grain wear leathers offer extra durability and protection
- Close Contact Fit: Built to shape to your horse's back, this contoured saddle pad reduces saddle roll, locking in place for a perfect fit while the precise cutouts under the wear leathers enhances communication between you and your horse
- Relaxed Experience: The soft, multi layered saddle pad effectively absorbs shocks, protects from rubbing and helps distribute weight evenly; this reduces strain on your horse's back while increasing comfort and confidence of the rider
- Ideal Equine Accessory: Wool blanket top saddle pads are available in attractive design and color that look great on a variety of horses - embody the trust and friendship between you and your horse; delivering unmatched style and durability
- Bareback pad featuring a single weave wool top for exceptional comfort and performance
- Comfortable fleece liner
- Features a rider handle
- Measures 21" x 35"
- Includes merino wool fleece girth
The Essential Bareback Pad Buying Guide
Riding bareback feels amazing. It connects you closely with your horse. A bareback pad gives you some grip and protection. It is a great choice for short rides or training. Choosing the right one matters for comfort and safety. This guide will help you pick the best bareback pad.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, check these main features first. These details make a big difference in how the pad works.
- **Seat Depth and Shape:** Some pads have a deeper seat. This helps keep you secure. Others are flatter. Think about what feels best for your riding style.
- **Stirrup Attachments (D-Rings):** Many pads have D-rings. These let you attach stirrups. If you need stirrups, make sure the rings are strong and well-placed.
- **Girth/Cinch System:** How does the pad stay on the horse? Most use a standard western or English girth. Check that the billets (straps) are adjustable and sturdy.
- **Handle:** A handle in front gives you something to hold onto. This is very important for new bareback riders or when riding fast.
Important Materials
The material affects comfort, grip, and how long the pad lasts.
- **Top Material (Where you sit):** Look for materials like thick fleece, synthetic shearling, or suede. Fleece feels soft against your legs. Suede offers better grip.
- **Underside Material (Against the horse):** The underside must be breathable. Good options are thick wool, sheepskin, or high-density foam covered in durable fabric. This stops the pad from slipping and keeps your horse comfortable.
- **Padding/Insulation:** Most good pads use foam or dense felt for cushioning. Thicker padding protects you more on long rides. Thin pads give you a better “feel” of the horse but offer less shock absorption.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality shows up in the details. Small things can make a pad last years or fall apart quickly.
What Makes a Pad High Quality?
Strong stitching is crucial. Look for double or reinforced stitching, especially around the handle and girth areas. High-quality foam keeps its shape. Good materials resist wear and tear from sweat and dirt. A well-shaped pad molds better to the horse’s back, which prevents pressure points.
What Lowers the Quality?
Thin, cheap foam compresses too fast. Weak nylon straps break easily. Rough edges or poor finishing can rub your legs or the horse’s back. If the pad slides easily, the quality of the underside material is probably low.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about why you need a bareback pad. This helps narrow your choices.
For **quick trail rides or grooming sessions**, a simple, lightweight pad might work best. These are easy to throw on and clean. If you plan on **training sessions or light jumping**, you need a pad with solid D-rings and good grip. These pads are usually thicker and more structured. Beginners often benefit from pads with a secure handle and high-grip material. Experienced riders might choose a very thin pad for maximum horse feedback.
Remember to always check the fit on your horse. A pad that is too small or too large can cause rubbing or instability. Always clean your pad regularly. Dirt trapped between the pad and the horse causes friction and discomfort.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Bareback Pads
Q: Are bareback pads safe for my horse?
A: Yes, if you choose a well-padded, correctly sized pad. Poorly fitting pads can cause sores. Always check the horse’s back after riding to ensure no rubbing occurred.
Q: Can I use my regular saddle girth with a bareback pad?
A: Usually, yes. Most bareback pads have billets that accept standard English or Western girths. Check the product description to be certain.
Q: How often should I clean my bareback pad?
A: Clean it after every few uses, or whenever you notice sweat buildup. Fleece and sheepskin pads need more frequent brushing and washing than suede pads.
Q: Do bareback pads replace a saddle?
A: No. Bareback pads offer less support and protection than a full saddle. They are best for short rides, groundwork, or very light work.
Q: What is the difference between a bareback pad and a saddle blanket?
A: A saddle blanket goes under a saddle for padding. A bareback pad is designed to be ridden on directly, often including a seat and stirrup attachments.
Q: Will a bareback pad slip easily?
A: A good quality pad should not slip if it is fitted correctly and you use the proper girth tightness. Poor grip comes from cheap underside material.
Q: Should I use one if I am a beginner rider?
A: Absolutely. Bareback pads give beginners a better feel for the horse’s movement while offering a handle and some security.
Q: Can I ride for long distances with a bareback pad?
A: It is not recommended. For long rides (over an hour), the lack of proper weight distribution can tire both you and your horse faster than a well-fitted saddle.
Q: How do I know what size to buy?
A: Measure the length of your horse’s back where the pad will sit, usually from behind the withers to the start of the loin. Match this measurement to the pad’s size chart.
Q: Are bareback pads comfortable for the rider?
A: They are generally less padded than a saddle. Comfort depends on the thickness of the foam and the softness of the seat material.