Frequently Asked Questions

Which Pad Do I Need?

Use these questions to help you decide which pad is best for you.

1. How long? The general rule of thumb is that you want your saddle pad to stick out 1"-2" in both the front AND the back of your saddle skirts. For example, if your saddle skirts are 26" long from nose-to-tail, you would be okay with choosing a Barrel (28" long) or a Regular (30" long) skirt pad. However, if your saddle skirts are 27" long, you would have to go with a Regular Skirt pad.
2. What shape? Choose a skirt shape that complements your saddle skirts.
3. How long will you be riding? If you ride more than four hours at one time on a regular basis, you need a pad that is at least 7/8" thick.
4. How much do you weigh? If you and your gear together weigh more than 200 lbs., you should get at least a 7/8" pad, but a 1" would be better.
5. What kind of terrain will you be riding on? If you regularly ride over mountainous or hilly areas, again, you want at least a 7/8" thick pad, but 1" would be better.

What is different about the mule contour?

The mule contour uses a gentler curve along the spine, and has a wider profile over the shoulders to allow for the mule's unique wither and body shape.

Would a mule contour be better for my mutton-withered horse?

"Mutton withers" is the term used to describe a horse that has a flatter curvature to their back, or lower withers. The answer to this question is "Yes." Many of my customers have found that the mule contour is exactly what their mutton-withered horse needs, and that the horse contour had too much curve for them (see image, right). However, please be sure that you truly do have a "mutton-withered" horse, or you may be frustrated with your pad not conforming well into the dip of your horse's back.

Why is there a price difference between "Natural" items and the other colours?

Natural felt and cord has been processed much less than dyed ones. Therefore, when you purchase a dyed product, you are paying for the materials and labour that went into creating it.

Will you take custom orders?

While my listings already allow for a great deal of personalization, I can't think of everything. Please contact me and I will be happy to work with you and 5 Star to turn your vision into a reality.

How long will it take my item to get here?

Please see the "Shipping and Delivery" section on my Customer Service page.