Your horse can’t tell you when something’s wrong, but their body will. When a saddle doesn’t fit correctly, it can create pressure points, friction, and even back issues. Here are 4 signs your saddle may be causing discomfort. At 5 Star Equine Products, we can’t correct a poorly fitting saddle, but we can help absorb some of that pressure and disperse it away from pressure points with a 100% pure wool saddle pad. And, in some cases, shims may be necessary to help balance your saddle and provide even pressure across your horse’s back.
- Behavioral Changes
Is your horse suddenly pinning its ears, swishing its tail, or resisting saddling? These are often early signs of pain or discomfort under the saddle.
- Dry Spots or Uneven Sweat Patterns
After a ride, check your horse’s back. Dry spots can signal uneven pressure, while patchy sweat patterns may indicate poor contact or friction. For more information on dry spots, visit (Dry Spots on Horses | 5 Star Equine)
- Hair Loss or White Hairs
Rubbing and pressure over time can cause bald spots or white hairs, particularly along the withers or spine. This is a red flag that something isn’t fitting right.
- Back Soreness or Sensitivity
Run your fingers along your horse’s back after a ride. Flinching, dipping, or muscle tightness can indicate discomfort caused by your saddle or the wrong pad.
How 5 Star Can Help Solve the Problem
5 Star pads are made with 100% pure wool felt (not synthetic blends) and are cut for precise fit. Wool naturally conforms to your horse’s back over time, minimizing pressure points and friction. Options like fleece lining offer extra softness for sensitive backs without compromising performance. 5 Star’s exclusive wool offers the density required for optimal PSI (pounds per square inch) protection, delivering superior impact absorption, pressure distribution, and long-lasting comfort. The natural resilience of our 100% pure wool felt allows it to conform to your horse’s back without collapsing under pressure maintaining consistent support ride after ride. This means better shock absorption, less fatigue, and reduced risk of soreness, even during long or demanding rides. 5 Star pads are available in thicknesses from 1/2″ up to 1 1/8″ with custom options available to help you get the perfect pad for your horse and saddle.
A proper fitting saddle is ideal; however, it isn’t always an option due to changing confirmations with seasons, increase and decrease in muscle mass, and with growing colts. And, as mentioned, a 5 Star pad can’t correct improper saddle fit, but it can help alleviate some of the issues.
Ride with peace of mind, knowing your horse is supported every step of the way.
