Back on Track mesh sheet - fixes for the shoulder?

[endlessclimb]

I have a Back on Track mesh sheet, and I really really hate that they put that piece of nylon on the shoulder gusset. I understand they’re trying to get it snug so the ceramic can do its thing, but god does it screw up the fit. Not to mention, it’s too hot for wearing overnight at summer shows.

I’m honestly thinking of selling it, unless someone has a genius way to cut that piece of nylon off? Would a seam ripper do it?

I’m eyeing the Smartpak mesh version of the sheet, any experience with those?

[endlessclimb]

Here’s the Smartpak version:

https://www.smartpakequine.com/pt/smarttherapy-thermobalance-ceramic-mesh-sheet-22030?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=NB_Shopping_Health_PMAX&utm_campaign=&gclid=CjwKCAiAnZCdBhBmEiwA8nDQxXQj1NSOwCmaYGrG6clWr3sJcn0EBl2SNkVHztPcBpyTVybJcif66BoCWskQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds#reviewsTab

[Simkie]

Everyone I know with these sheets just cuts that little piece down the middle

[endlessclimb]

Mine is stitched with an X through it, because I had scissors in hand ready to do it and physically couldn’t. Maybe I can get the thread out all together? I’ll have to take a look

[Tee]

I just cut mine.

[Squirt]

I used a seam ripper and just picked at the stitching with it until they were no more.

[Amy3996]

I chopped mine and thought I’d be the only person to do that to a very expensive sheet, so I’m relieved to see some of the posts here.

I’ve got my eye on the Schneider’s Lux Ceramic sheet now because I hate the fit of the BOT. Their VTek line fits my horse really well and I like the adjustability at the neckline to relieve pressure at the withers.

A barnmate of mine has the SmartPak. It’s a lighter mesh which would be nicer for warm weather but I still wasn’t wild about the fit.

Lux® Ceramic Therapy VTEK® Mesh Sheet | Schneiders Saddlery

[TooManyTBs]

I have the Smartpak version and it fits great. I had the Back on Track version before but my horse got bad shoulder rubs from it at that weird seam. I like the fit and the clip front buckles a lot on the Smartpak sheet. My horse mainly wears it in the trailer, but has also worn it under his turnout blankets and a few times overnight in a stall (he lives out except for bad weather, so not many chances to wear it in a stall.) It’s held up well, I was concerned with the mesh ripping but I’ve had no issues. I’ve had it a few years, I bought it right when it came out.

[endlessclimb]

How would you describe your horse’s build?

[TooManyTBs]

He’s a thoroughbred but wide in the shoulders for his size. I somehow have no good pictures of his shoulder size. Here’s him from the side and wearing the Smartpak sheet.

[crthunder]

SP mesh version is great for warmer temps. Also a better fit from the start than BOT. For my horse’s NOT sheet I cut the shoulder tabs and sewed the front closed so it would not slide back.

[back_in_the_saddle1]

I have a TB who was getting rubs from it, so I just cut it. Problem solved! I know other people who have done the same.

[fire.pony]

My Connemara/Arab is very wide so I cut those tabs immediately haha. I did use a seam ripper to get them off and make it look nicer. Much better fit with the open shoulders.