If you’re looking for saddle pads for gaited horses, best saddles for gaited horses, gaited saddle pad you’ve come to the right place.
For my guide, I’ve put together 8 of my favorites.
There is sure to be one here that suits your saddle and horse.
Let’s get started!
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Also Check: The Best Saddle Pad Reviews
Don't have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
8 of the Best Gaited Horse Saddle Pads - Buying Guide
Choosing gaited horse saddle pads is a bit of a challenge. While there are many that suit the unique movement of these horses, horse owners need to take time to select the right type.
As a gaited horse rider, you know what comfortable riders these horses provide. You also probably know that they move differently than normal horses.
So when choosing a pad for gaited horse riding, you need to take extra care whether you go on trail rides or take part in endurance riding fit is very important.
To help you get on the track, I’ve put together some of the best saddle pads for gaited horses in one place.
So let’s take a look at some of my favorites!
#1 Classic Equine BioFit Correction Felt Pad: WINNER
While this is an expensive equestrian saddle pad, it is worth the investment. This saddlecloth not only has a cut-out in the wither area it also has built-up areas on either side.
These features allow for more freedom of movement and help prevent the saddle from pressing too much on the withers and at the top of the shoulder blade.
It is also a fantastic choice for an older horse that needs good support and cushion along its topline. The cut-out makes it suitable for high-wither horses as well.
This is just an excellent all-around choice of pad made with high-quality felt of the finest materials. It is good at distributing pressure evenly, thus avoiding uncomfortable pressure points.
It helps provide extreme comfort with your horse in mind.
Physical Attributes
Orthopedic grade felt
100% virgin wool
With cut out
Contoured shape
Leather trim
Measurements & Sizes
30 x 30 inches or 31 x 32 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Classic Equine BioFit Correction Felt Pad
Benefits Drawbacks Shock absorbing Expensive Wither clearance Lack of color choice High-quality material Nice thickness for extra comfort Wedge placements
How it Compares to Others and Why
This is one of the most expensive options in my guide. However, it is high quality and will last you many years if you take good care of it. It is ideal for casual trail rides or more intense horse training.
Expert Tips
Gaited breeds require a special saddle fit as they need more freedom of movement than a non-gaited horse. Check out this video from an expert gaited horse saddle fitter.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LN_BPSn-IAU
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Classic Equine BioFit Correction Felt Pad
This pad is very popular, from happy horse parents of high with horses to riders of gaited horses. Victoria, one such horse parent, found that this pad helped her saddle sit more comfortably on her Tennesse Walker.
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READ MORE: Half Pads With the Best Support Reviews
#2 Diamond Wool Contour Felt Ranch Pad
A fantastic all-around western saddle pad that is great at absorbing swear, made with quality material, and suitable for gaited breeds.
Physical Attributes
Contoured spine
Quality wool felt
Wither relief increases comfort level
Distress leather trims
Measurements & Sizes
30 x 30 inches or 32 x 32 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Diamond Wool Contour Felt Ranch Pad
Benefits Drawbacks Good price for the quality Only one color choice Two size options Great at moisture wicking Wither relief
How it Compares to Others and Why
While this saddle pad isn’t cheap, it is a good price considering the quality. It is versatile, as you can use it on any horse, gaited or not.
Expert Tips
If you want to learn more about saddles for gaited horses, take a look at this video from an expert saddle maker.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1s5eqhfPIqw
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Diamond Wool Contour Felt Ranch Pad
Many horse parents who use this pad always comment on the great quality. There are many happy users like Storyman, who says: “Absolutely love this pad!!”
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#3 Weaver Contour Wool Blend Saddle Pad
If you’re looking for the best saddle pad for gaited horse, this is certainly one that fits the bill. This is great if you use a western saddle and want a high-quality saddle blanket.
Physical Attributes
Moisture-wicking
Wool blend
Leather trims
Wither cut out
Measurements & Sizes
30 x 30 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Weaver Contour Wool Blend Saddle Pad
Benefits Drawbacks Great at wicking moisture Only one color choice Durable Not suitable for English saddles Suits horse with high withers
How it Compares to Others and Why
This is a thick, durable pad but is only suitable for western saddles. The price is pretty good at less than $100. The thickness helps give your horse maximum comfort during riding.
ALSO CHECK: Weaver Leather Saddle Pad
Expert Tips
Wool blend saddle pads need specific care to keep them in excellent condition. Check out these tips from the experts at Weaver on how to care for a saddle pad.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-ZLKjHSfq0
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Weaver Contour Wool Blend Saddle Pad
This is a highly popular pad for its price and durability. Happy horse rider, Charlene had this to say - “I’ve put a lot of miles on this pad in the arena and on trails. It still looks brand new.”
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#4 Professionals Choice Smx Air-Ride All Around Saddle Pad
If you prefer a modern, sleek look, I recommend checking out this great pad.
Physical Attributes
Shock absorbing helps provides additional comfort
Comes in black or chocolate brown
Breathable
Fleece lining
Measurements & Sizes
30 x 32 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Professionals Choice Smx Air-Ride All Around Saddle Pad
Benefits Drawbacks Made in the USA Expensive Lightweight No wither cut out Easy to clean
How it Compares to Others and Why
This western saddle pad is more modern-looking than many of the other options. It is also one of the more expensive choices.
Expert Tips
Learn more about this modern saddle pad from the experts at Professionals Choice.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXfNR8UaLN0
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Professional's Choice Smx Air-Ride Saddle Pad
Here is a helpful review from equestrian Barret Houser, who tells you all about his experience with this saddle pad.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncSu3LKXZOI
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#5 Triple E Cordura Square Trail Pad
triple E saddle pad
Saddle pads for gaited horses are easier to find than you think. If you want something with lots of wither room and non-slip, take a peek at this option. Oh, and it’s non-slip, which is a great feature!
Physical Attributes
Comfort grip bottom
Felt center
Durable cordura top
Wear leather trim
Comes in several vibrant colors
Measurements & Sizes
30 x 30 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Triple E Cordura Square Trail Pad
Benefits Drawbacks Budget-friendly price Not machine washable Fun color options Non-slip Room for withers
How it Compares to Others and Why
This saddle pad has one of the most economical prices compared to others.
Expert Tips
What is one of the best-gaited horse saddles? Find out here from a saddle expert.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Np-3ba6Ctfw
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Triple E Cordura Square Trail Pad
Horse parents of all types of horses like this pad. Norma has this to say - “I am able to use this pad all day. Very breathable with a layered construction.”
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CHECK: Best Non Slip Saddle Pad
#6 Mustang Free Fit Contoured Felt Saddle Pad
mustang saddle pad
With a specially cut gullet at the wither, this pad provides gaited horses' flexibility.
Physical Attributes
Gullet cut back design
Open front
Contours
Measurements & Sizes
32 x 31 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Mustang Free Fit Contoured Felt Saddle Pad
Benefits Drawbacks Shoulder freedom A little expensive Flexible Only two color options Doesn’t restrict movement
How it Compares to Others and Why
This saddle pad has more flexibility in the wither area, making it one of the best options for freedom of movement.
Expert Tips
Saddle fit is crucial for gaited horses . Learn how fit affects their movement.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVWV0hOJfCA
What Other Horse Parents Are Saying About Mustang Free Fit Contoured Felt Saddle Pad
“I love this pad! The open withers front works great.” That’s what one horse parent has to say about this great gaited horse saddle pad.
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#7 Oxbow SOLO 1in Saddle Pad
oxbow saddle pad
If you want a cozy saddle pad for your gaited horse, look no further. I just love how comfy this saddle cloth is.
Physical Attributes
EVA foam insert
Fleece bottom
Reinforced spine
Contoured leather spine
Measurements & Sizes
30 x 30 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Oxbow SOLO 1in Saddle Pad
Benefits Drawbacks Wicks moisture Expensive Shock absorbing for maximum comfort Limited color choices Breathable Durable
How it Compares to Others and Why
This saddle pad has a cut-out wither, which gives it extra flexibility. It provides excellent cushioning. However, it is one of the more expensive options.
Expert Tips
Learn how to shim a saddle pad for a gaited horse from an expert gaited horse equestrian.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSOACy8e3jU
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#8 Tucker Tacky Tool Round Saddle Pad
tucker saddle pad
If you want a contoured pad that is non-slip and shock-absorbing, I recommend you take a look at this one.
Physical Attributes
Anti-bacterial
Non-slip material
Extra-long drop
Measurements & Sizes
36 x 30 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Tucker Tacky Tool Round Saddle Pad
Benefits Drawbacks Shock-absorbing Might not fit all saddles Durable A little pricey Easy to clean Soft and flexible
How it Compares to Others and Why
This pad is more contoured than many of the other options and will only suit certain types of saddles.
Expert Tips
Which saddle pad is right for your horse? Take a look at this video which shows what to look for with the guidance of professional western riders.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xe-2dUkZqQM&t=129s
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By the way, we have a separate guide discussing what is a gaited horse. Check it out to learn more!
How to Buy a Gaited Horse Saddle Pad
When looking for the best pad for your saddle and horse, there are a few things to consider when making a choice.
I’ve put together a few tips here to help you out.
buckskin horses
Fit
It is vital that the style and cut of the saddle pad fit your horse. You want a pad that easily molds the horse’s shape and doesn’t bunch up anywhere.
This is so that pressure is evenly distributed, and you can avoid any pressure points.
Of course, your saddle fit is also essential. Joyce Harman DVM talks about the importance of saddle fit and its effects on back problems in her paper, Tack and Saddle Fit.
She states, “An ill-fitting saddle contributes to direct and compensatory lower leg lameness, making it even more imperative to correct the fit.”
Size
Make sure that the pad you choose is the right size for your saddle.
If it falls short anywhere, especially at the back of the saddle, you will create pressure points that are uncomfortable for your horse and can make the back sore.
In her tack buying guide. Sue Web has some excellent golden rules when choosing any piece of tack for your horse. There are:
“Buy tack that is suitable for your discipline
Buy tack that fits your horse
Buy the best you can afford”
This applies to all tack, not just gaited horse tack.
Flexibility
For a gaited horse, it is essential that the saddle pad provides enough flexibility. These horses have a larger range of motion that creates their smooth gaits.
This can cause an inflexible pad to create discomfort and even soreness.
FAQs
Still, have some questions? Let’s take a look at some common ones I’ve come across and their answers.
Are Tucker saddles good for gaited horses? Yes, some Tucker saddles are good for gaited horses. Tucker makes models specifically designed for gaited horses allowing for their different movements. Best saddle pad for a gaited horse? The best saddle page for a gaited horse is one that does not restrict movement. It must be particularly flexible around the withers. Cut-out saddle pads are good for this.
Conclusion
I hope I’ve helped you narrow down the best saddle pads for gaited horses. While many of these pads are not at the low end of budgets, they are the most suitable.
Plus they are durable, so if you take good care of them, they will last you many happy years of horse riding. Keep your horse happy and happy trails!
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lady putting one of the Best Saddle Pads For Gaited Horse on her stallion
What are your favorite saddle pads for gaited horses? Please share below!
References
1. Harman J. Tack and Saddle Fit. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice. 1999;15(1):247-261. doi:10.1016/S0749-0739(17)30175-X
2. ScienceDirect.com | Science, health and medical journals, full text articles and books. www.sciencedirect.com. Accessed March 29, 2022. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/am/pii/S0737080615300411
