Wool Saddle Pads: The Unsung Hero of the Open Range
In This Article
In the vast plains where the western horses roam, a rider's tools are more than just gear, they're companions on the long road ahead.
Today, we turn our attention to an often-overlooked friend of the rider - the humble saddle pad. Yet not just any saddle pad, we're focusing on those crafted from the heart of nature's closet, wool.
Just as no two horses are alike, with each one's gait as distinct as the cowhand atop them, so it goes with saddle pads. Materials matter and the choice you make can be as important as the horse you ride.
Let's embark on an exploration of wool saddle pads, diving into their unique attributes, and why they might be your western horse's new best friend.
Types of Wool Saddle Pads
So cinch up your saddle and let's dive into the world of wool saddle pads, breaking down the different types of wool and their unique characteristics, and why they might just become your ride's next best friend.
The Merino Marvel
No other wool knows comfort quite like Merino. As gentle as the prairie wind and as comforting as the morning sun, Merino wool offers a haven for your horse's back. It's like a comforting hug for your horse, keeping it dry and cozy regardless of the season.
Alpaca Wool: The Tender Touch
Meet the alpaca wool, as soft as Merino but kinder to those with skin as sensitive as a fresh blanket of snow. It's a balm that cools and comforts, ensuring your horse doesn't feel any rougher than it should.
Mohair: The Tough Mate
Then there's mohair, the sturdy sidekick for the rough and tumble riders. It's tough and resilient, made from the hair of the Angora goat, ready to take on any challenge the wild west might throw.
Cashmere: The Soft Spoken
Cashmere, with its whisper-soft touch, is a dream come true for those in search of gentleness. It's a cushion between your horse and the hard world, helping soften the ride when the trail gets rough.
Fleece: The Old Reliable
Lastly, we have the reliable fleece. It might not share the nobility of its wooly brethren, but it's a hard worker, providing breathability and moisture absorption during those long rides and strenuous workouts.
Pros and Cons of Wool Pads
Wool saddle pads are indeed a thing of beauty. They offer natural softness and breathability, ensuring your horse stays comfortable. Their superior sweat wicking abilities maintain a balanced temperature for your steed under the punishing sun. Plus, wool's natural fibers conform to your horse's unique form, offering a custom fit that synthetic materials struggle to provide.
But it's not all roses.
Wool saddle pads require a bit of maintenance, they're not as carefree as their synthetic cousins. They're heavier and might require a few extra dollars, but remember, it's an investment in quality and comfort.
Final Thoughts
When the stars light up the night sky and the campfire's all that stands between you and the cool night air, you'll appreciate a saddle pad that's taken care of your horse throughout the day.
From the soft embrace of Merino, the gentle touch of alpaca, the durable support of mohair, the light caress of cashmere, to the reliable backing of fleece - wool saddle pads can truly make the difference. So next time you're saddling up, choose wisely, because a content horse makes for a happy rider under that wide western sky.
Richard Sutherland
RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.orgRichard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.