Choose the Best Riding Pad Today

Do you want a quality riding pad for your horse without spending too much? Here’s how to choose the best equipment. We discuss the selection of equestrian items, from quality saddlery to technical gear. We consider the climate, the horse's shape, and daily use.

We will explore criteria to properly equip your horse and yourself. You will learn to compare different types of blankets and choose the right size. The history of PADD, a trusted brand since 1974, and recognized brands like Bates and Eric Thomas will also be mentioned.

Our goal is to guide you with useful advice, concrete examples, and practical solutions, while emphasizing safety, comfort, and durability. This way, you can make wise and sustainable choices.

Key Points

• Safety and comfort are paramount, well before the aesthetics of the equipment.
• Choose equipment suitable for its use: stable, day, or paddock.
• The measurement should go from the middle of the chest to the back of the hindquarters for reliability.
• Comparing quality in-store and online allows for perfect adjustments.
• Opt for reputable brands and experts in France.
• Prefer durable materials, with sturdy buckles and beautiful finishes.
• Review the equipment each season for the comfort of both horse and rider.

How to Choose Your Equestrian Equipment: Essential Criteria for Horse and Rider

Equestrian equipment varies according to use, climate, and level of experience. One should opt for durable, easy-to-clean materials that give the horse the freedom to move. For the rider, choosing suitable accessories makes sessions safer and more enjoyable, whether in training or on a ride.

Adapting Equipment to the Horse's Lifestyle (stable, pasture, paddock)

Horses in stalls need a breathable blanket that absorbs moisture and retains heat. For mid-season, a lightweight day blanket may suffice or be layered with another depending on the weather and whether the horse is clipped.

Outdoors, a waterproof and partially padded blanket is preferable. It should have a lining to combat moisture and wear. The choice of weight depends on many factors, such as the horse's health and the climate. Some horses that spend the whole year outside do not need a blanket.

Rider Comfort and Safety: Helmets, Protection, Accessories

The helmet is essential for the rider. There are economical models, like Choplin, which are safe for training and rides. For added safety, Komperdell offers protective vests that do not hinder movement.

Technical stirrups, like those from Freejump and COMPOSITI, add grip and comfort. They are sturdy and offer good value for money. A precise whip, like those from Fleck, is useful for directing without forcing. Don’t forget the essential accessories: gloves, bags for Horse & Travel equipment, and Borstiq Farm brushes for horse care.

Online Saddlery vs. Physical Store: Availability, Services, and Fitting

Online saddleries have a wide selection and allow for quick finding of what you need. Their return policies are also an advantage.

Physical stores, on the other hand, offer the benefit of trying on equipment, especially saddles. Bates and Eric Thomas offer adjustable saddles. PADD stores facilitate direct purchases thanks to their convenient locations. Having the choice between a saddlery online and a physical store allows for better finding of what you are looking for, for all types of equipment.

Stable, Day, and Paddock Blankets: Choosing Well According to Weather and Use

Choosing a good blanket is about ensuring your horse's comfort and health. By selecting quality equestrian gear, you adjust protection according to the weather, lifestyle, and work of the horse. The paddock equipment complements everything, ensuring a smooth transition from the stable to the outdoors.

Day Blankets: Mid-Season and Layering in Extreme Cold

The day blanket is ideal for mid-season. It keeps warm without overheating. It can be worn alone when it's mild or under a waterproof layer in cold weather. Choose comfortable fabrics and a cut that does not rub the shoulders.

When it freezes, layering several blankets keeps the horse warm. This system is effective with breathable fabrics that are easy to dry after use.

Stable Blankets: Breathability and Full Padding in the Stall

In the stall, we aim to keep the horse dry and warm. Stable blankets are not always waterproof, but they should resemble a breathable and cozy cloud.

Their lining prevents hair breakage, especially if the horse is clipped. With good paddock equipment, comfort and efficiency are guaranteed.

Paddock Blankets: Waterproofing and Nylon Lining at the Bottom

Outdoors, a blanket must withstand water and wind. They are often thicker at the top and have a nylon lining at the bottom. This makes them resistant to mud and easy to wear.

The Horseware Rambo Original is a good example: it combines waterproofing, breathability, and durability. It is a suitable choice for outdoor living.

Weight and Clipping: Adjusting Protection According to Condition and Environment

The choice of weight varies according to several factors. A horse in a stall needs more insulation than a pony living outside all year round.

The weight can range from 0 g for dry weather in mid-season to 400 g in extreme cold. A good saddlery makes wearing these layers comfortable and non-restrictive.

Measuring the Right Size: From the Middle of the Chest to the Back of the Hindquarters

The ideal measurement goes from the middle of the chest to the back of the hindquarters. This is the best way to obtain an accurate size as models vary between brands.

Comparing this measurement with the manufacturer's guide prevents issues. A well-fitting blanket ensures perfect freedom of movement alongside the paddock equipment.

Riding Pad: History, Service Spirit, and Best Price Choices in France

Founded in 1974 in Paris, PADD is passionate about the equestrian world. It offers a smooth online saddlery and good advice in-store. Thus, every rider finds the equipment they need, with quality support.

A Reference Since 1974: Passion, Advice, and a Network of 100 Stores

PADD has about 100 stores in France, from Paris to Bordeaux. Its team focuses on quality service: fittings, adjustments, and advice. The goal is to offer the most suitable, durable, and fairly priced equipment.

The stores are large and accessible, with parking. They offer a wide selection and product availability. The welcome is always expert and warm.

Proximity and Services: Mobile Stores, Presence at Competitions and Shows

Mobile stores visit clubs and competitions throughout the year. They bring the necessary equipment to meet the immediate needs of riders. PADD is also present at major equestrian events, facilitating fittings and discussions.

Proximity is an advantage of the online saddlery. Quick orders, in-store pickups, and phone advice are available. Thus, PADD supports every rider, regardless of their discipline.

Competitiveness and Large Stock: Making Equestrianism Accessible to All

PADD offers a large stock and attractive prices thanks to its purchasing power. Various references are available to meet every need, level, and budget.

A simple loyalty program exists: 5% discount after 5 purchases in 2 years. Between the store and online sales, PADD guarantees easy access to equipment, with quick service and a diverse selection.

Horse Saddle and Quality Saddlery: Innovative Brands and Equestrian Equipment

Choosing a fitted saddle and quality saddlery is crucial. Good equestrian gear allows the horse to feel comfortable. It also helps the rider be more precise. Riders' accessories must be reliable and easy to care for.

Bates and Eric Thomas: Adjustability, Horse Back Comfort, and Quality Finishes

Since 1934, Bates has innovated with an interchangeable gullet. Their air panels adapt perfectly to the horse's back. This improves saddle balance in dressage, jumping, or trail riding.

Eric Thomas offers quality leathers. With Eric Thomas Pro, customize bridles, saddles, and halters. These products are appealing for their durability and the beauty of their finishes.

Freejump and COMPOSITI: Technical Stirrups, Safety, and Lightness

Freejump offers single-branch stirrups designed for all riders. They provide more safety and stability. This boosts confidence during jumps.

COMPOSITI presents stirrups with wide footbeds. They are made from lightweight yet very strong materials. They are perfect for better grip without weighing down the equipment.

Feeling, Fleck, Komperdell: Bits, Whips, and Performance Protections

Feeling creates durable stainless steel bits. Fleck, renowned for over 140 years, produces precision whips.

Komperdell, a family-owned business, offers innovative protections. Their commitment to comfort and the environment is remarkable. It’s ideal for riders concerned about quality.

La Sellerie Française: High-End Products Made from A to Z in France

La Sellerie Française creates unique, handmade pieces. From start to finish, every step is carefully managed. Their work illustrates French excellence in equestrian leather goods.

Their expertise enriches the quality of saddlery. It adds an elegant touch to any horse saddle. The result is harmonious, durable, and elegant equipment.

Horse Care and Paddock Equipment: Well-Being, Maintenance, and Safety

For the well-being of horses, it is essential to choose reliable equipment. This includes suitable paddock equipment, an effective grooming routine, and secure fencing. We should promote quality products and sustainable solutions in equestrianism.

Natural Care and Expertise: Absorbine, Alodis Care, Animaderm, Equinatura, Effol

Absorbine, founded in 1892, is famous for its products like Veterinary Liniment. Alodis Care, since 2015, offers Ecocert certified organic products, free from harmful substances.

Animaderm, specialized in equine skin care, manufactures Derfen and Cutène. Equinatura uses plants and essential oils for horse beauty. Effol offers a range of care products that strengthen the bond between horse and owner.

Recovery and Comfort: Back on Track (Welltex), Ice Vibe Horseware

Back on Track uses Welltex, a ceramic-based technology, to improve blood circulation. This helps relax muscles after exercise.

The Ice Vibe boots from Horseware combine cold and vibration to aid recovery. These products are perfect for complementing paddock equipment.

Insect Repellent and Sensitive Skin: Bremsenbremse, Farnam

Bremsenbremse combines IR3535 and geraniol with soothing aloe vera. Its formulas are safe for daily use, with no doping risks.

Farnam, an expert for 75 years, provides repellents and skin care suitable for outdoor use. They are easily usable both in stalls and on rides.

Hooves and Leather: Kevin Bacon’s, Effax, Carr & Day & Martin

Kevin Bacon’s produces natural hoof care with the help of professionals. Effax offers quality products for leather maintenance.

Carr & Day & Martin, established in 1765, offers a complete range for leather care, hooves, and more. Belvoir soap is ideal for maintaining your equipment.

Safe Fencing and Paddock: Beaumont (PADDOCK range), Horizont, La Gée

Beaumont offers a complete range for safe electric fencing. Horizont is recognized for its innovative energizers and accessories.

La Gée produces quality stable equipment in France. This guarantees a safe environment for horses and durable equipment.

• To be completed as needed: Greenguard (founder baskets), Hilton Herbs (herbal supplements), Hippo Tonic (ergonomic brushes), Heiniger (professional clippers), Horsena (recyclable innovations), Guy Cantin (children/pony saddles), Eden by Pénélope and EQUITHÈME (technical textiles), Horse Master (supplements), Horse & Travel (luggage).

Conclusion

The choice of a riding pad depends on several criteria. This includes the horse's lifestyle (stable, pasture, paddock), the weather, and clipping. Also, the discipline and level of the rider are important. Ensure that the blankets fit well from the chest to the back of the horse. Then, choose the weight and type of blanket (day, stable, paddock) according to the weather.

This precision prevents injuries and reduces moisture. It also increases the horse's comfort on a daily basis.

For saddles and bridles, opt for reliable brands. Bates and Eric Thomas offer quality adjustable saddles. Freejump and COMPOSITI provide technical and safe stirrups. With Feeling, Fleck, and Komperdell, you will have top bits, whips, and protections.

Regarding well-being, brands like Absorbine, Alodis Care, and others are recommended. Back on Track (Welltex) and Ice Vibe Horseware assist in recovery.

Maintenance is crucial for the durability of the equipment. Kevin Bacon’s, Effax, and Carr & Day & Martin take care of hooves and leather. For solid paddock equipment, Beaumont (PADDOCK range), Horizont, and La Gée are recommended. They guarantee secure and visible fencing.

This ensures a stable environment for the horse.

By choosing between an online saddlery and in-store advice, PADD offers many advantages. They have competitive prices, mobile stores, and are present at shows. For those who love handmade items, La Sellerie Française offers luxury creations, sometimes custom-made, all made in France.

By mixing expertise, services, and innovation, your equestrian equipment will be top-notch. This makes your equestrian practice safer and more enjoyable, whether in-store or online.