The influence of different saddle pads on force and pressure changes beneath saddles with excessively wide trees.

This research article explored the impact of various saddle pads on the force and pressure spread when using an overly wide saddle. The researchers discovered that different pads had varying effects, signifying that pad selection should be customized based on each horse’s unique needs.

Objective of the Study

• The objective of this study was to scrutinise the forces and pressure distribution beneath various types of saddle pads when an excessively wide saddle is used. The study aimed to provide empirical evidence that can aid in choosing the appropriate saddle pad based on highly personalized criteria for each horse.

Study Design and Methodology

• The researchers conducted the study using 18 horses that were walked and trotted on a treadmill. The horses were equipped with a dressage saddle with an excessively wide saddle tree and four different pads – gel, leather, foam and reindeer-fur – that were used sequentially.
• Kinetic data for analyzing the forces and pressure distribution was collected using a pressure mat positioned underneath the saddle pad. Additionally, kinematics from the right fore-hoof of the horses were used to synchronize the data with the stride cycles.

Measurements and Analysis

• The study focused on the maximum overall force (MOF) and pressure distribution in longitudinal and transversal directions to identify any differences in measurements with and without saddle pads.
• Saddle pressures and MOF showed significant variability between horses. At a walking pace, the foam and gel pads substantially lowered the MOF in 44.4% of subjects while at trotting pace, the gel and reindeer-fur pads significantly lowered MOF in 61.1% of the subjects.
• The leather pad, conversely, increased MOF in the highest number of horses both at walk and trot, but these results did not reach significance when variability between horses was taken into account.

Conclusion of the Study

• The findings of the study made it clear that the choice of a saddle pad to improve the fit of an excessively wide saddle should be based on highly individualized criteria for each horse, given the variations in effect of the different saddle pads.