Choosing the right numnah or saddle pad for your saddle

Some top tips to follow when deciding which saddlepad to use:

1. Know your saddle size. All NuuMed saddlepads are designed to fit a specific saddle size:

2. Get the right saddlepad shape to fit your saddle. Is your saddle a general purpose, dressage or a Close Contact jump? Your saddlepad should fit the saddle design.

3. How well does your saddle fit your horse? If it fits well, you don’t need a thick pad or more than one pad because it will make the saddle too tight for your horse and very uncomfortable.

4. Get the details right. Even if you have the right size, make sure:

• the saddle flaps are long enough (especially on dressage pads)
• the seat is wide enough on shaped saddlepads or numnahs
• the straps are in the right place and the right length

5. Think about the material used. Is it man made or natural? Natural fabrics are best and British Wool has superior shock absorbency, pressure distribution and can absorb 30% of its own weight in moisture BEFORE feeling damp.

6. How easy is it to look after the saddlepad? You want it to stand up to vigorous use, be machine washable and quick/easy to dry.

7. Does your saddlepad give you value for your money? Will it last for lots of years, not just one season or one year.

8. Is the saddlepad the right one for the competitions you want to enter? Some rulebooks have specific rules on numnahs, saddlepads and embroidery.