I have been debating this as well. The new Thinline with sheepskin, if you also buy one set of shims, is over $350. The Mattes platinum isn’t even that much, and the gold is much less. I know the Mattes pads are thick, and I’m generally a Thinline fan, but the horse that needs this is a sensitive redhead and seems to like wool things. I’m afraid the Thinline will ultimately be too thick with shims, and especially with the price I’m leaning towards Mattes. Just trying to figure out sizing and whether I can fit it with the roll in the back or not.
My number one reason for using a half pad is shock absorption, and ThinLine and poron (the material used in the Matrix Extreme Pro inserts) provides the most with the least amount of bulk. After that, I choose the rest of the pad depending on saddle fit/horse. I use a ThinLine Trifecta (cotton back) for my two geldings with low withers/round builds because it doesn’t create lateral roll. I use the Matrix (sheepskin) on my two geldings who have A-frame conformation and substantial withers because they tell me they appreciate a bit more cushion between the saddle and themselves.
My Matrix pads are medium size… black fabric (sturdy and doesn’t show dirt) with natural-color sheepskin. 18" Lauriche dressage and 17 Prestige Roma Jump. Not sure what the spine measurement of the pad is, but I’ll get it for you if you want.
Bumping for more input.
I ordered a thinline trifecta on clearance (not returnable). The stunning saddle I brought in on trial does not fit. The saddle fitter gave some recommendations but said that with current fitness and the ponies structure, I’m going to need shims for the time being unless I go fully custom.
She then said that for a horse with high withers she only recommends the mattes because it has a channel to allow adequate clearance. While this makes sense, I’ve never heard anyone else really mention it.
Is anyone using a thinline on a TB or prominent wither horse? Have you noticed any issues with it binding or restricting? I’m going to take a hit reselling this pad but I’ll get more out of it new than used so I’m wondering if I need to suck it up and go get a shimmable mattes after all.
I’m using my Thinline Trifecta on a TB with definite withers (and the hollows below) - although not huge shark-fin withers. I’ve never had an issue with binding. I also used to use the original-style half pad that’s just Thinline material and while it didn’t stay up in the channel of the saddle, didn’t seem to cause problems.
I also noticed that the new Trifecta pads DO have a channel - it’s a new design, which I assume is why the older style is on clearance. If you look here, there are some photos that show the channel (it’s mesh): https://thinlineglobal.com/shop/english-saddle-pads/english-half-saddle-pads/trifecta-half-pad-with-sheepskin-rolls
@GraceLikeRain sorry I hadn’t gotten back to you. My LM pads are size L so I can’t help with the measurement aspect.
Both my TB and Han have HIGH withers. The Thinline and Matrix pads are both cut to accommodate, and do, without a hint of pressure along the entire spine.
I have 2 ThinLine Trifecta pads with the sheepskin rolls but quilted underside. Neither has had any issues with the sheepskin falling apart, and the white one is 6 years old and has been rained on a LOT, and the brown one is 2 years old and is tossed around by the therapeutic program’s volunteers multiple times a day.
I like it because it has the look of a sheepskin half pad but the benefit of the thinline, less bulk than full sheepskin, good spine/wither clearance (not that my pony HAS a wither, haha), and the option to shim should I ever need to is handy too.
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