Non-slip saddle pads for horses: grip and saddle stability

Non-slip saddle pads, also known as anti-slip pads, are thin and highly grippy accessories designed to prevent the saddle from slipping or turning on the horse's back. They are placed between the saddle and the saddle pad, or depending on the model, between the saddle pad and the horse, to improve stability without adding excessive bulk.

They are particularly useful for:
• round horses or horses with no prominent Withers,
• very muscular horses,
• young horses that are not yet well-established,
• saddles that move forward or backward slightly,
• riders seeking better stability in show jumping, dressage, or trail riding.

What is the purpose of a non-slip saddle pad?

1. Prevent the saddle from slipping or turning

On some horses, the saddle can:
• move forward towards the shoulders,
• move backward,
• shift sideways,
• turn during sudden movements.

The non-slip saddle pad provides additional grip that:
• stabilizes the saddle,
• prevents micro-slippages,
• improves rider stability,
• makes the riding session safer.

2. Prevent rubbing and chafing

By limiting saddle movement, it reduces:
• irritation,
• chafing areas,
• tension related to constant rider corrections.

It is an asset for the overall comfort of the horse.

3. Offer a simple solution for horses that are difficult to girth

On round or very muscular body types, even a good girth may not be enough. The non-slip saddle pad:
• improves grip,
• stabilizes the whole setup,
• reduces the need to overtighten.

What is a non-slip saddle pad made of?

1. Perforated rubber anti-slip pads for horses (most common)

This is the classic material for anti-slip pads:
• very grippy,
• flexible,
• breathable thanks to perforations,
• easy to rinse.

2. Thin non-slip gel pad

Some models use a soft, perforated gel plate.
Advantages:
• excellent grip,
• thinness,
• good hold even when sweating,
• slight vibration absorption.

3. Soft non-slip foam pad

Less common. Used for wider, slightly shock-absorbing models, while remaining thin.

Different types of non-slip saddle pads

1. Compact non-slip saddle pads (placed under the saddle)

Small format, often rectangular or in the shape of a mini-pad, made of perforated rubber or thin gel material, to be positioned under the saddle panels.
Advantages:
• ultra discreet,
• adds no noticeable bulk,
• very easy to clean.

These are the most commonly used models.

2. Full-surface non-slip saddle pads

A wider plate covering a larger area.
Useful for:
• very round horses,
• body types where the saddle moves forward/backward,
• saddles that lack overall stability.

3. Saddle pads with integrated anti-slip zone

Some classic saddle pads include:
• silicone zones,
• grip panels,
• rubber inserts.

A practical 2-in-1 solution for daily use.

Compatibility of anti-slip pads

Non-slip saddle pads are compatible with:
• most saddles (all-purpose, jumping, dressage, trail riding),
• all standard saddle pads,
• all horse body types,
• arena work or trail riding.

They should not be used to:
• correct a saddle that is too wide or too narrow,
• compensate for a deformed tree,
• replace a professional fitting.

They stabilize, but do not alter saddle fit.

Usage tips

• Place the non-slip pad with the grip side towards the saddle, unless otherwise indicated, or between the horse's back and the saddle pad according to your needs.
• Avoid multiple layers (saddle pad + shims + non-slip) → risk of excessive bulk.
• Rinse regularly: dust reduces grip.
• Check that the pad remains taut under the saddle.

How to choose your non-slip saddle pad?

• Very round horse → perforated gel or full-surface rubber
• Saddle that turns slightly → compact non-slip pad under the panels
• Sweaty horse → very breathable perforated model
• Daily use → thin, easy-to-wash rubber model

Key criteria:
• actual grip,
• thinness,
• breathability,
• ease of maintenance,
• stability under the saddle.