Acavallo gel pads: which model do we like?

[tres_grey]

Hey there! I typically ride with a Prolite pad with a thin shim on the right to help with slight shoulder asymmetry). I’m looking to add some more stability. I’ve heard great things about the Acavallo pads, but after some research, I am overwhelmed by the options. Just trying to save myself some shipping back-and-forth heartache.

I like the Classic, Hexagonal, and Respira designs. I’ve also seen some great reviews on the LeMieux X-Grip, which uses Acavallo gel. I’m open to the Massage option, but I worry about breathability. I’ve heard the Free Withers cutout can cause back soreness.

So questions:

• Which one do you prefer and why?
• Do you use yours under or over the saddle pad?
• What are your thoughts on microfleece?

Thank you!

[SolarFlare]

The fitter I use recommends the Respira model for breathability and shock absorption, and won’t affect saddle fit much as it’s very thin and even.

If you happen to be in Ontario and want to buy a nearly-new one, my horse prefers his Thinline Granted I’ve used a Thinline almost every ride ever for about 14 years so it may be why he prefers that but what he says goes!

[SillyHorse]

I use a Respira over my saddle pad. I like the shock absorption. It’s very easy to keep clean, too. Just swish it around in some water and let it dry.

[Badger]

Very happy with the gel respira. I rarely use the non-gel Piuma respira one as it doesn’t conform as nicely as the gel one. But the gel one I use all the time.

[lorilu]

I have an older Acavallo pad that is fairly thick and my guy doesnt like it (previous horse did, and I do…) Looking up the Respira due to @SillyHorse comment about shock absorption. Going to the Acavallo website, there are quite a few… And at other stores, prices seem to be all over the place…
Gel? What is the “NS”?
Does anyone know which is the thinnest and most shock absorbing? (need shaped… Jagger has a real wither).
TIA

[SillyHorse]

I think “NS” is non-slip. I have the flat, and it’s pretty thin. They are very floppy, so your horse’s withers shouldn’t be an issue.

[SolarFlare]

I have a TB with a long wither and hollows, and had no issue with the Respira model. As SillyHorse said it’s very floppy. It actually comes rolled up in a tube, to give you an idea of how soft it is.

[tres_grey]

Old thread, but I wanted to follow up in case anyone else is dealing with a similar issue. I ended up purchasing a Respira. We love it!

The issue: my horse was developing a small, temporary bump along his spine after rides in my dressage saddle. It wasn’t sensitive, and it always disappeared within 20 minutes. Still concerning. After consulting my saddle fitter, chiro, and vet, they all suggested the bump was caused by tension across my saddle pad and advised me to tent the front and back of the pad more carefully.

I tried everything—LeMieux, PS of Sweden, Premier, Mattes—but the bump persisted. Finally, after digging through old COTH threads, I found a suggestion to try a gel pad directly on their back. Since switching, the bump has completely disappeared, and we’ve been bump-free all winter! I’m so grateful for this community!

[Against_All_Odds2]

I am not sure if Acavallo and Lemieux are owned by the same people now but I have been using the lemieux X-Grip Twin Sided Half Pad Black and am really happy with it. It was the acavallo gel in it but with a shaped spine. And it is really grippy