Half Pads

As equestrians, most of us feel obligated to do something to protect our horses' backs from our inadvertent and inevitable bouncing. A good option to do so is with a good-quality half pad to absorb concussion and disperse pressure. But sifting through the half-pad market can be a long process. So made a list of my favorites...


ECOGOLD MEMORY FOAM TRIPLE PROTECTION HALF PAD: Based on the research I've done, this is my favorite half-pad option. I use it on my horse every day. It conforms to your saddle and to your horses' back, filling in gaps and improving fit. The three layers of foam work together to protect your horse's back from impact. And it's thin enough that it doesn't make the saddle fit too tightly, or interfere too much with feel. Reviews rave of its tendency to encourage horses to round up through their backs. It comes in black, ivory, and brown, with a price tag of $165. Not cheap, but not overly expensive for a pad of this quality.
https://www.ecogold.ca/product_info.php?products_id=110&osCsid=b1bbpr1ia1sekqoa0uqpiqcj97
Impact test: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Kpv9LYbIVjg
Pressure Scans: http://www.dynamicsaddlefitting.com/ecogold-saddle-pad-scans.html

OGILVY JUMP MEMORYFOAM HALFPAD: This pad came in neck-and-neck with the Ecogold according to reviews across forums and online stores. It is slightly more expensive at $199, but it's a favorite of many high-level jumpers. In fact, Ogilvy sponsors the incredible Reed Kessler. The pad is made from anti-friction materials and Ogilvy claims that "This half pad will have your saddle fitting perfectly on every horse, even with custom made saddles." While most reviews claimed this pad was significantly thicker than the Ecogold, the memory foam will squish down to 1/8 of an inch thick. Still concerned? For an extra $40 Ogilvy makes a "Gummy" half pad that is thinner and denser than their standard memory foam model. 
Gummy Pad: https://www.ogilvyequestrian.com/details.php?id=29
MemoryFoam HalfPad:  https://www.ogilvyequestrian.com/details.php?id=12

THINLINE: This pad is one many equestrians swear by. It is known for its incredible shock-absorbing abilities despite its thin structure. At a good price of $84, this pad is a good option if your saddle fits well already but you want a little extra padding without bulk to protect from impact. 
http://shop.thinlineglobal.com/p/thinline-half-pad?pp=12&pp=12
Impact Test Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DnlzA1lJa0

CASHEL:  I had this pad for years from when I half-leased my first pony 7 years ago to when I upgraded to the Ecogold. I didn't use it consistently but it still looks great and is perfectly functional. It comes in several different thicknesses as well as a wedge option. It is very lightweight and does a fair job of conforming to your horse's back, and is a good option if you want some inexpensive impact protection. At $36.95, this pad is great for your horse's back and for your wallet.
http://www.cashelcompany.com/Product.aspx?DepartmentID=6&CategoryID=33&ProductID=9190

Remember that no pad can substitute a well-fitting saddle. But the above pads are great investments in your horse's comfort.