Western Saddle Pads with Shim Pockets

Western Saddle Pads with Shim Pockets

Each horse, saddle and saddle pad combination are different, so,  shimming in the right place is the most important starting point.  Your best option will be to use a saddle pad that offers an open shimming system.  While there are many Western Saddle Pads with Shim Pockets you should pay attention to two key features.  First, don’t allow a pad to force you to shim, or build-up, in a specific area.  And, second, carefully review what your saddle fitting materials are made from.

The Open Shim Pocket.

The ability to move your shims into the position your horse and saddle require is very important. The open pocket allows you to do two things.  First, you can place the shims where you need them. Second, you can stack and layer shims which will give you a gradual transition.  Pads with “forced” built-up areas create a gap that can be quite uncomfortable for horses.

Purchasing pads with permanently built-up areas can cause more harm than good if the built-up area is in the wrong place for your horse.

saddle fit western shim pocket pad classic equinewestern saddle pad with shim pocket

 

Shim Placement.

High withered horses and horses with saddles that bridge are excellent candidates for a ThinLine. It is important you are able to place saddle fitting shims in exactly the right position to provide even contact along the full panel of the saddle.   Our pads accept up to three sets of 1/4 inch shims in one place and offer you the ability to layer them, creating a smooth, pressure-free shimming system.

Saddle Fit Shim Materials.

Materials used to shim are as important as the corrective pad itself.  The materials need to be supportive, they need to provide pressure relief, they should not shift and they should be comfortable for your horse.  By making our shims from the same material as our shock-absorbing saddle pads we can double the comfort for the horse while also creating perfect saddle fit.

western saddle shim pressure relief

What does the Panel of ThinLine provide in addition to the pockets?

In this case, ThinLine delivers shock-absorbing protection for both horses and riders. ThinLine is the only saddle pad with pockets endorsed by surgeons, master saddlers & veterinarians.

“The manner in which this product absorbs motion encourages horses to lift their backs, developing strength and top-line.  It has been endorsed by Veterinarians, for horses, as well as Spinal Surgeons for riders. It is a top pick for Master Saddlers around the world. Equine Chiropractors and Massage Therapists carry it on their trucks to keep horses going strong, supple and relaxed.  Trainers and riders find it a trusted product to improve rider equitation.”  It is the dual benefits of extraordinary shock absorption and rider motion reduction that sets ThinLine apart from other saddle pads.  Additionally, the top layer of ThinLine will automatically span the area and create contact on saddle areas not yet touching the horse.

How do I know which pad to choose?

Each ThinLine Western saddle pad with shim pockets comes with a panel of our shock-absorbing foam. Under this panel you will find an open pocket.  We offer saddle pads and shock absorbing shims for horses in every saddle style and have designed our pads to work well with even the most challenging confirmations.

Click images to learn more about specific saddle pad styles which include Western, Endurance, Jumping, Dressage and Treeless pads.

Banner Saddle Fitting Shims

 

Western Saddle Pads with Shim Pockets.

Add the best western therapeutic shims and pad  to your tack box.  And enjoy our money-back satisfaction guarantee.

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