Layering saddle pads?

[NikkiS]

I have a diamond wool 1" wool felt pad. It’s just black. I have been getting bored of it lately and would like a little bit of color. I have considered getting a thin colorful wool show type pad to place on top of my current pad instead of purchasing a new pad.

I have seen ppl use these pads under their felt pads as a liner to keep them clean, but what about on top? I’m worried it might cause slipping or bunching…

[beau159]

You can very easily get a colored saddle BLANKET to put on top of your current pad, such as this one:
http://www.smithbrothers.com/mayatex-san-juan-solids-saddle-blanket/p/X3-1983/

But I would be very hesitant to use any type of PAD, on top of another pad, because then you are getting way more padding than you need. (Imagine wearing 3 pairs of socks with your shoes.)

[Raleigh_s_Mom]

For everyday, I have a diamond wool pad with a woven blanket folded in half on top. I needed a little extra thickness than the diamond wool pad gave. I have used this set up for about two years. No slippage, bunching, etc. And good sweat patterns.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10201142776640701&l=57e4121df7

[NikkiS]

Thanks for the replies I’m glad you brought up the point about affecting saddle fit. Actually, like Raleigh’s Mom, my mare could use the extra padding right now anyway. She has been out of work for a couple years and we are working on building her topline back up. Once she gets in shape, I have a feeling, it might be too much padding together.

Thanks SO much for posting the pic. That is exactly what I am thinking. Very sharp little horse you got there

[Raleigh_s_Mom]

Thanks. He is a pretty cool little horse. I bought him as a two year old with 30 days on him, but he has taught me so much. I am fortunate to have him (and he turns five this year!!!).

Back to the saddle pads… I love the Diamond wool pad that I have. I will always use them in the future, and love that they work good with layering. I think a blanket will add what you need without the bulk.

[Rusty15]

The western pleasure crowd almost all have woven saddle blankets over regular pads, so it can definitely be done. My sister does this for her barrel horse. I would not put another PAD on top though. A 1" pad is already extremely thick if you need more padding then your saddle is WAY too wide. A well fitting western saddle should not need more than 1/2-3/4" of padding between it and the horse.

[Flash44]

I use a felt pad against the skin
http://www.sstack.com/product/Miracle-Black-Felt-Liner-38-30-X-30/?utm_source=bizrate_com&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=WEB01010PS8&scpid=6&scid=scsho518770

and put a blanket on top like beau said
http://www.smithbrothers.com/mayatex-san-juan-solids-saddle-blanket/p/X3-1983/

Both the felt pad and the blanker can go in the washing machine. I really hate the big thick pads that you can’t toss in the wash. PITA. I also don’t like padding up more than 1".