Effect of a half pad on pressure distribution in sitting trot and canter beneath a saddle fitted to industry guidelines

Abstract Using a half pad beneath a saddle can be beneficial for improving saddle fit. However, there is a paucity of evidence on half pad use when used beneath a correctly fitted saddle. The aim was to quantify the effect that three different half pads have on pressure distribution beneath a saddle fitted following industry guidelines. Twelve non-lame horses were ridden by experienced riders in sitting trot and canter on each rein (3 repeats). Saddle fit, with a high-withered cotton saddle cloth (control) compared to three half pads (viscoelastic gel, wool and medical grade closed cell foam) was evaluated by five qualified saddle fitters. A Pliance (Novel) pressure mat determined saddle pressures. Mean and peak pressures (kPa) beneath the saddle were compared using a general linear mixed model with horse as a random factor and half pad type and rein as fixed factors with a Bonferroni post hoc correction (P≤0.05). In sitting trot, in the cranial region peak (P=0.008) and mean pressures (P=0.03) were highest when using the gel half pad compared to the control. In the caudal region in sitting trot, mean pressures were lowest when using the wool half pad (P=0.0002). In canter, increased peak (P=0.04) and mean (P=0.02) pressures were found in the cranial region of the saddle with the gel half pad. In canter, with the foam half pad reduced mean pressure (P=0.002) in the caudal region were found. It is essential that the use and type of a half pad, to be used beneath a well fitted saddle, is discussed with a qualified saddle fitter.