We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Saddle Pad For High Withers 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Kavallerie High Western Shock Absorption Horse Saddle Pad 32” x 32”, 1.4" Thick Western Saddle Pad for Horses with Shock Absorbing Effect - Felt/Cotton/Cowhide - Saddle Blanket for a Comfortable Ride

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,226
Wither Relief

Most important from
76 reviews

Wither Relief
The high-wither profile is almost perfect and provides excellent relief, though some horses might need even more clearance.

The Kavallerie High Western Shock Absorption Horse Saddle Pad is designed with high-wither horses in mind, offering strong wither relief. Its 1.4-inch thickness provides excellent shock absorption, ensuring comfort for both horse and rider.

The saddle pad is made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. It also features a non-slip design to keep it securely in place during rides, preventing discomfort and potential injury to the horse. This makes it suitable for various riding activities, from casual rides to competitive events.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,226
Wither Relief

Most important from
76 reviews

Wither Relief
The high-wither profile is almost perfect and provides excellent relief, though some horses might need even more clearance.
#2

Southwestern Equine OrthoRide Correction Saddle Pad 1" Made in USA (31 x 32, Natural Leathers)

Rating
10.0
Wither Relief
Padding and Support
Material

Most important from
235 reviews

Wither Relief
The saddle pad instantly transformed my horse's comfort and performance, making him move forward willingly without any balking.
Padding and Support
It corrected the saddle fit perfectly, leveling it out and eliminating any discomfort for my horse.
Material
Remarkably durable and easy to clean, this saddle pad maintains its quality and functionality even after many rides.
Fit and Size
The design ensures no slipping and provides a precise position with its cut-out area for the cinch, enhancing the overall riding experience.

The Southwestern Equine OrthoRide Correction Saddle Pad is a solid choice for anyone dealing with saddle fit issues, especially for high-withered horses. One of its major strengths is its design specifically aimed at providing wither relief, which is crucial if you have a horse that often experiences saddle rubs in that area. It’s also beneficial for young horses with less developed shoulder muscles, ensuring their comfort during rides.

The PORON-RXD material under the saddle bars is impressive, absorbing up to 90% of shock, which means it can help protect your horse during more intense activities like team roping and barrel racing. The padding and support offered by this saddle pad are commendable, giving additional comfort for both horse and rider. Made from natural leathers, it not only looks good but also ensures durability and longevity.

The custom fit feature is great as it means the pad can adapt to different saddle shapes and horse sizes, covering a wide range of needs. However, the 1-inch thickness might be a bit too thick for some users, potentially causing a tighter fit under certain saddles. Additionally, while it solves many saddle fit problems, it might not fully eliminate them in all cases, meaning some trial and error with saddle adjustments might still be necessary. Weighing in at just under 3 kilograms, it’s relatively manageable in terms of weight, although some might find it slightly heavy compared to other saddle pads. This product is a great fit for those looking to enhance their horse’s comfort and performance, particularly if they are dealing with high withers or underdeveloped shoulder muscles.

Rating
10.0
Wither Relief
Padding and Support
Material

Most important from
235 reviews

Wither Relief
The saddle pad instantly transformed my horse's comfort and performance, making him move forward willingly without any balking.
Padding and Support
It corrected the saddle fit perfectly, leveling it out and eliminating any discomfort for my horse.
Material
Remarkably durable and easy to clean, this saddle pad maintains its quality and functionality even after many rides.
Fit and Size
The design ensures no slipping and provides a precise position with its cut-out area for the cinch, enhancing the overall riding experience.
#3

Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad - Helps with Saddle Bridging, Sore Back, Swayed Back, High Withers - English Pad for Horses, Protective, Perfect for Eventing, Schooling, Dressage, Jumping

Rating
10.0
Padding and Support
Material

Most important from
399 reviews

Padding and Support
The Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad significantly improves saddle fit on horses with less defined top lines, offering extra cushioning where needed.
Material
Durability is impressive, with no tearing or disintegration over years of use, although careful handling is recommended to prevent potential tears.

The Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad is designed to address various issues horses might face, including high withers, saddle bridging, sore backs, and swayed backs. Its main strength lies in the versatility offered by the four different gel pad designs (Seat Saver, Middle Riser, Rear Riser, and Front Riser) that cater to different back conditions. This makes it a solid choice for horse owners looking for specific support for their horse's unique needs.

The gel saddle pad provides excellent cushioning, which helps distribute pressure evenly across the horse's back, reducing discomfort and the risk of sores. Additionally, the 100+ gel holes promote ventilation, preventing heat buildup and excessive sweating, which is a significant plus for maintaining your horse’s comfort during activities like dressage, jumping, and training. Made from soft yet durable ReiterGel material, the pad promises longevity and stability, preventing the saddle from moving around. It’s also easy to maintain, needing nothing more than a simple wash with water.

On the downside, some users might find the gel pad to be a bit heavy, given its weight of 3.8 pounds, which could be a concern for horses sensitive to weight changes. Additionally, while it's ranked well in its category (#18 in Equestrian Saddle Pads), it may not be the top choice for those who need the absolute best in every category. Some users have noted that the pad might not fit all saddle types perfectly, so ensuring it aligns well with your specific saddle is important. The Kavallerie Seat Saver Gel Saddle Pad offers a good balance of comfort, support, and ease of maintenance, making it a reliable choice for horse owners, especially those dealing with high withers or other back issues.

Rating
10.0
Padding and Support
Material

Most important from
399 reviews

Padding and Support
The Kavallerie Gel Saddle Pad significantly improves saddle fit on horses with less defined top lines, offering extra cushioning where needed.
Material
Durability is impressive, with no tearing or disintegration over years of use, although careful handling is recommended to prevent potential tears.

Buying Guide for the Best Saddle Pad For High Withers

Choosing the right saddle pad for a horse with high withers is crucial for ensuring comfort and preventing injury. High withers can create pressure points and discomfort if the saddle pad does not provide adequate clearance and support. When selecting a saddle pad, consider the specific needs of your horse and the type of riding you do. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a saddle pad for high withers.
Wither ReliefWither relief refers to the design feature of the saddle pad that provides extra space and clearance around the withers. This is important because it helps to prevent pressure and rubbing on the sensitive wither area, which can cause discomfort and sores. Look for saddle pads with a contoured or cut-back design that offers ample clearance for high withers. If your horse has very prominent withers, a pad with a deep cut-back or high-rise design may be necessary to ensure proper fit and comfort.
Padding and SupportPadding and support are essential for distributing the rider's weight evenly and reducing pressure points. This is particularly important for horses with high withers, as they are more prone to pressure sores. Saddle pads come with various types of padding, such as foam, gel, or wool. Foam and gel pads offer good shock absorption and support, while wool pads provide natural cushioning and moisture-wicking properties. Choose a pad with sufficient padding to provide comfort and support without being too bulky.
MaterialThe material of the saddle pad affects its durability, breathability, and comfort. Common materials include cotton, wool, synthetic fabrics, and sheepskin. Cotton and wool are breathable and moisture-wicking, making them ideal for hot weather. Synthetic fabrics are often more durable and easier to clean. Sheepskin pads offer excellent cushioning and comfort but require more maintenance. Consider the climate and your horse's skin sensitivity when choosing the material of the saddle pad.
Fit and SizeThe fit and size of the saddle pad are crucial for ensuring it stays in place and provides adequate coverage. A pad that is too small may not offer enough protection, while a pad that is too large can shift and cause discomfort. Measure your saddle and your horse's back to determine the appropriate size. Ensure the pad extends slightly beyond the edges of the saddle to protect your horse's back from the saddle's edges. A well-fitting pad will stay in place during riding and provide consistent support.
ThicknessThe thickness of the saddle pad can affect the fit of the saddle and the level of cushioning provided. Thicker pads offer more cushioning and can help fill in gaps for a better saddle fit, but they can also raise the saddle higher, potentially affecting balance. Thinner pads provide less cushioning but allow for closer contact with the horse. Consider the fit of your saddle and the level of cushioning your horse needs when choosing the thickness of the pad. If your saddle fits well, a thinner pad may be sufficient, while a thicker pad may be needed for additional support.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now