The only saddle pad endorsed by back surgeons, master saddlers and veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Horse Tack Questions

ThinLine gives you a quieter, closer connection with your horse. Holistic health benefits coupled with comfort ensure you and your horse will be the best you can be.

Using a ThinLine alone will NOT alter custom saddle fit.

Endorsed by most Master Saddlers in the USA, ThinLine is the first choice of riders both with and without custom saddles.

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General Questions

  • Are ThinLine saddle pads breathable?
    YES! ThinLine pads are made of an open-cell foam. Just look at the air and water! Foam that is breathable. While the material may look like a solid piece, it is comprised of millions of little open cells so that air can pass through.  The open cells are laid out end to end and then the next layer is put down in a different direction. This means the airflow moves laterally across the pad, venting the air out from under your saddle.  
  • In which cases should (or could) a ThinLine pad be used?
    All of our saddle pads include our exclusive ThinLine foam which makes both horse and riders' backs better.  It takes away the shock/impact/bounce and reduces the sheer (front,back & left, right movement) of the saddle. It is non-slip and is so thin it can be used with a custom-fitted saddle. ThinLine Saddle Pads are offered in numerous textiles and designs to accommodate saddles for each equestrian discipline. All shimmable pads begin with ThinLine (3/16″, 4.8mm, the thinnest we make) over a base pad. The only pads without the ability to shim are the single sheets of ThinLine foam called Basic Pads. Each saddle pad has a pocket to place optional shims to fine-tune saddle fit. We offer two different shim thickness choices – ThinLine, 4.8mm, Thinline+Plus, 6.4mm. The shims will be an add on option when you view a saddle pad. Capture trim to fit    
    • ThinLine  3/16″ – the thinnest
      • Enhances rider performance and connection with the horse without altering custom saddle fit.
      • Provides shock absorption and comfort for the horse but with this product, the rider feel is enhanced.
      • Horses move bigger and at the same time riders sit better.
      • Endorsed by spinal surgeons, Master Saddle Fitters and top riders- keeping riders backs healthier.
     
    • ThinLine+Plus  1/4″ – the thickest
      • Makes horses more willing to work by rapidly diffusing weight and impact while in motion.
      • Endorsed by Veterinarians, Equine Chiropractors, and Horses.
      • Provides more impact protection than other saddle pads.
    Whether you chose  ThinLine or ThinLine+Plus we guarantee you will see a better connection with your horse.
  • Will I hurt my horse if I use my basic ThinLine pad directly on my horse’s back?
    No, you won’t hurt your horse, but the longevity of your basic pad could be compromised. Still, most riders see close to a decade of use out of a ThinLine pad. Just be sure not to pull the pad up at the wither into the gullet of the saddle. Though you may see it sit on the wither, it will not cause a pressure point.
  • How does ThinLine work?
    Beginning as a liquid, microscopic cells are poured into a mold then polarized so each cell lies end to end creating a tunnel. Another layer is poured on top and polarized in a new direction, this process is repeated hundreds of times creating a honeycomb matrix allowing impact and heat to move laterally like rings of water when you throw a stone into a quiet pond. So impact and pressure is dissipated ACROSS ThinLine!  Just watch the golf ball test!
  • How do I know if I am putting my ThinLine pad on correctly?
    The ThinLine logo can help you tell you are putting your pad on correctly. The logo is placed on the “left shoulder” of every pad, so your pad should be placed so that the logo is also on the “left shoulder” area of the horse.
  • What are “shims” and do I need them?
    If you need to adjust the fit of your saddle use our Trim to Fit Shims (Inserts). These are made of ThinLine material and are placed in the pocket under the ThinLine on all shimmable pads. Available in two thicknesses. ThinLine (3/16") and ThinLine+ (1/4") Shims are most beneficial for saddles which are too wide, for asymmetric horses, or sway-backed horses. Shims can not help fit a saddle that is too narrow. This is why it is best to work with a qualified saddle fitter to determine if you need shims, and if you do, which ones you need. Capture trim to fit
  • Will the same shims fit all of the ThinLine pads?
    There are some ThinLine pads which share the same shims but most of the time you will need different shims for each pad. When you are on the product page of the pad you wish to purchase you will see the shims listed as an option to buy.    
  • My ThinLine pad is a little too big for my saddle, can I cut it down?
    If it is a basic pad (made of just the ThinLine foam), then the answer is yes! Use a utility knife (box cutter) or a sturdy pair of scissors. Make rounded cuts. No “V” shapes- they will tear. Keep in mind however, we do not warranty pads that have been modified if they tear at a point caused by cutting.
  • What are the advantages of ThinLine over other saddle pads/blankets?
    Simple saddle pads/cloths are designed to keep the saddle clean and provide a bit of fashion. Other shock absorbing products work on a compression basis: when you apply weight or pressure they compress and at that moment they are not functional. As the weight is relieved non-compression foams release, or spring open. In the case of riding this effect actually moves the rider further from the horse. Gel moves away from pressure points, generates heat and shifts a great deal, reducing the stability and sense of security for both horse and rider. ThinLine works when under the weight of a rider or saddle. Does not move and greatly reduces the feel of sudden impact allowing you to whisper to your horse with your seat.
  • What are the intended effects of a ThinLine pad?
    To provide wafer thin shock absorption so riders sit closer and quieter producing greater harmony between horse and rider. To improve saddle fit and provide a thin yet stable non slip component improving the horses’ sense of balance and confidence.
  • What makes ThinLine so different?
    ThinLine saddle pads are made with a shock-absorbing, breathable foam that molds to the horse, creates better saddle fit, and enhances riding. ThinLine creates harmony between rider and horse. It is easy to care for and has impressive longevity. ThinLine products have a money back guarantee that you and your horse will see improved performance and communication. ThinLine makes both rider and horse more comfortable resulting in greater happiness and better performance.
  • Is ThinLine just a fad?
    The first ThinLine pad appeared on the market in the early 90’s. After more than 20 years we still speak to people who have and use their original pad. ThinLine is a small USA company and our products are quietly placed beneath a saddle where it is not noticed by anyone except the horse and rider. Customer loyalty is strong, once riders own a ThinLine they rarely ride without one. Western pads were designed in 2012, so they are new to the western market. Check the dressage and eventing forums and barns. You will hear a great deal about how ThinLine has changed the lives of horses and riders.

Horse Tack Questions

  • What are “shims” and do I need them?
    If you need to adjust the fit of your saddle use our Trim to Fit Shims (Inserts). These are made of ThinLine material and are placed in the pocket under the ThinLine on all shimmable pads. Available in two thicknesses. ThinLine (3/16") and ThinLine+ (1/4") Shims are most beneficial for saddles which are too wide, for asymmetric horses, or sway-backed horses. Shims can not help fit a saddle that is too narrow. This is why it is best to work with a qualified saddle fitter to determine if you need shims, and if you do, which ones you need. Capture trim to fit
  • Will the same shims fit all of the ThinLine pads?
    There are some ThinLine pads which share the same shims but most of the time you will need different shims for each pad. When you are on the product page of the pad you wish to purchase you will see the shims listed as an option to buy.