Bareback Pads for Horses | Comfort, Grip & Safety

A bareback pad provides cushioning and grip for riding without a saddle, offering a practical middle ground for casual rides, warm-ups, and light trail work.

Riding bareback connects you with your horse’s movement, but it also means less cushioning and stability for both of you. A bareback pad fills that gap: it distributes your weight, adds a non-slip surface, and often includes girth straps and thigh blocks to keep everything in place. Unlike a standard saddle pad, these are designed to be ridden on directly.

What Makes a Bareback Pad Different From a Saddle Pad

A bareback pad is built for direct riding, not just padding under a saddle. The top surface uses a non-slip material so your seat stays put, and many models include girth straps, D-rings, or even stirrups. The bottom is typically fleece or a non-slip fabric that grips the horse’s back without shifting. Saddle pads are thinner and only meant to sit between the horse and a saddle—they lack the structure, grip, and girth system a bareback pad provides.

How to Choose the Right Bareback Pad

Fit and material matter most. Start by measuring your horse’s back to confirm the pad’s spine length—most run 23 to 24 inches and fit pony through draft. Check that the pad has spinal relief or a contoured center that clears the spine rather than pressing on it. For material, thick fleece or a breathable synthetic top works well; avoid anything that traps heat and sweat, which can cause discomfort during longer sessions. Look for adjustable girth straps with enough reach——and consider whether thigh blocks or D-rings for a breastplate would improve stability for your riding style.

If you’re comparing models side by side, our tested bareback pad roundup covers top picks across different budgets and riding styles.

How to Use a Bareback Pad Safely

Secure the girth straps snugly—the pad should not slide when you mount or during turns. Keep rides to 15–30 minutes maximum to prevent heat buildup and pressure fatigue. Without a saddle’s deep seat and reinforced tree, longer sessions increase the risk of saddle sores and can tire your horse’s back. Check that the pad stays centered on the spine and does not shift during movement; non-slip undersides and girth attachments are essential here. For extra cushioning, some riders place a treeless saddle pad underneath, but this is optional.

What to Avoid

Synthetic materials that don’t breathe can trap heat and cause sweat burns under the pad. A pad without spinal relief puts pressure directly on the horse’s spine—this can cause pain and injury over time. Pads without a non-slip bottom or girth straps are prone to sliding, which is dangerous for both rider and horse. Also, avoid substituting a bareback pad for a saddle on long-distance or high-intensity work; it’s a practical tool, not a replacement for a proper saddle in those situations.

FAQs

Can you put stirrups on a bareback pad?

Yes, some bareback pads come with integrated stirrups or have D-rings that allow you to attach them. These are common on training or youth models, but they add weight and may shift if not properly secured.

How much does a bareback pad cost?

Mid-range options with fleece and thigh blocks typically land near $150. Budget bareback pads with stirrups are also available.

Is a bareback pad safe for a horse with back issues?

Bareback pads are lighter than saddles and reduce spinal pressure if the pad includes proper spinal relief. However, for horses with diagnosed back problems, always consult a veterinarian or equine professional before using any pad or saddle.