Half Pads

Horse & Pony Half Pads

Half pads—also known as numnahs or half saddle pads—have revolutionized equine comfort. Designed to sit between the saddle and your horse’s back, half pads offer shock absorption, help minimize concussion, and reduce the risk of discomfort or long-term back issues. Both horse and pony half pads can assist with saddle fit, especially as your horse’s shape changes with age, fitness, or the seasons.

Why Use a Half Pad?

Half pads provide an extra layer of cushioning, helping to improve saddle fit and prevent slipping while maintaining close contact between horse and rider. Unlike stacking two full saddle pads, a half pad gives targeted support where it’s needed most—without compromising the rider’s leg position or communication. Most half pads are designed to be used with a standard saddle pad, but some riders use them alone.

If you are looking to improve your saddles fit, a corrective half pad may be a better option.

Top Brands and Best Sellers

Discount Equestrian stocks a wide variety of half pads for horses and ponies in different sizes, shapes, and materials. Here are some customer favourites:

• Gel-Eze® Non-Slip Saddle Pad: Affordable, shock-absorbing gel pad that’s lightweight, discreet, non-slip, and perforated for airflow. Washable, reusable, and eco-friendly.
• LeMieux® Pro Lambskin Half Pad: Luxurious Australian Merino lambskin with a clear spine for pressure relief and airflow. Suitable for any saddle cut and can be used with or without a saddle cloth.
• Rhinegold 3D Air Mesh Half Pad: Lightweight and breathable, this half pad features a 3D air mesh construction for superior ventilation and shock absorption. Contoured for a great fit and comfort, it’s ideal for everyday use and helps keep your horse cool under the saddle.
• WeatherBeeta® Memory Foam Comfort Half Pad: Soft, breathable, and anti-slip with superior shock absorption. Memory foam distributes pressure evenly and improves saddle fit.
• LeMieux ProSorb Plain 3 Pocket Quilted Half Pad: This innovative half pad features three pockets on each side for customizable shims, allowing you to fine-tune saddle fit. The quilted design provides a stable base, and the pad is suitable for use with or without shims for all disciplines.

Materials & Features

Half pads are available in sheepskin, gel, memory foam, fleece, cotton, and high-tech thermoplastics. Sheepskin is prized for breathability and temperature regulation, while gel and memory foam offer easy-clean, custom-fit comfort. Many pads feature removable shims, D-ring straps, and stylish fleece or wool rolls.

Fitting Tips

Choose the right size (pony, cob, horse; or small, medium, large) for your saddle and horse. Ensure fleece or wool rolls clear the cantle for a neat fit.

Shop Half Pads & More

Discover your ideal half pad at Discount Equestrian. For more horse tack, explore our collections of bridles, girths, and training equipment.

If you need help choosing the best half pad, our friendly team is always happy to assist—contact us for expert advice or to take advantage of our Price Match Promise.

Frequently Asked Questions - Half Pads

Why use a half pad instead of doubling up saddle pads?

Half pads offer targeted cushioning and shock absorption without compromising leg contact or saddle fit, unlike stacking two full pads.

What materials are best for half pads?

Sheepskin for breathability and comfort, gel for non-slip shock absorption, memory foam for custom fit, and thermoplastics for lightweight support.

How do I choose the right size half pad?

Match the pad to your saddle and horse size—most brands offer pony, cob, and horse sizes, or small, medium, and large.