6 Best Saddle Pad Shims For Pressure Point Relief

A well-fitted saddle is only as good as the interface between the horse’s sensitive back and the weight of the rider. Minor imbalances, seasonal muscle loss, or long, grueling rides can turn a comfortable trek into a painful experience for an equine partner. Mastering the use of shims is the most effective way to bridge the gap between saddle anatomy and the ever-changing reality of a horse’s physique.

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ThinLine Full Shims: Best Overall Pressure Relief

ThinLine technology stands apart because it doesn’t just fill a gap; it actively absorbs shock and dissipates weight across the entire saddle surface. The material’s unique open-cell structure creates a slight “bounce” that stabilizes the rider, making it an ideal choice for horses with sensitive backs or those recovering from minor muscle atrophy.

These shims are thin enough to maintain a close-contact feel, ensuring that communication between horse and rider remains crisp. Because they are designed as a full-pad shim system, they provide consistent, uniform support rather than targeting isolated points. If the goal is general comfort and long-term spinal health during moderate-intensity rides, these are the gold standard.

EA Mattes Poly-Flex Shims: Best Premium Option

When precision and durability are the primary objectives, EA Mattes Poly-Flex shims represent the pinnacle of engineering. These are specifically designed for the brand’s correction system, allowing for highly targeted adjustments to accommodate asymmetrical muscle development or saddle fit drift.

The high-density poly-flex material holds its shape under heavy, sustained pressure without flattening over time. While the price point is steeper, the investment is justified for riders who need a reliable, long-term solution for horses with difficult-to-fit conformations. These shims turn a high-end saddle pad into a truly corrective tool.

Classic Equine BioFit Shims: Best For High Withers

High-withered horses often suffer from saddle bridging, where the weight sits behind the withers but fails to make proper contact along the mid-back. Classic Equine BioFit shims are explicitly shaped to lift the front of the saddle, filling the hollows created by a prominent wither structure.

By correcting the angle of the tree, these shims prevent the saddle from pinching or causing dry spots after long hours on the trail. They offer the necessary clearance to ensure the shoulders have full range of motion. This is a must-have for riders dealing with Thoroughbreds or high-withered warmbloods where saddle stability is a constant struggle.

ProLite Adjustable Shims: Best Impact Absorption

ProLite is synonymous with clinical-grade pressure distribution in the equestrian world. These shims are crafted from a specialized material that is used by professionals to recover horses from soreness; they excel at soaking up the kinetic energy generated during posting or heavy lateral work.

Because they are highly adjustable, riders can stack them to achieve the perfect balance point regardless of the saddle’s current state. They are particularly effective for endurance riders who need protection against repetitive impact over rugged, uneven terrain. When the ride requires maximum protection against friction and concussion, ProLite remains the undisputed choice.

Toklat T3 Matrix Felt Shims: Best For Trail Riding

The T3 Matrix system from Toklat is built for the rigors of the backcountry, where gear needs to perform in fluctuating temperatures and varying elevations. These felt shims provide a firm, breathable foundation that naturally wicks moisture away from the horse’s back during long, sweaty treks.

Unlike synthetic gels that can trap heat, wool felt offers superior breathability while maintaining its structural integrity under the weight of a packed-out saddle. These shims are perfect for the recreational trail rider who prioritizes simplicity and long-lasting material performance over flashy, high-tech plastics. They are reliable, straightforward, and highly effective for multi-day excursions.

Cavallo Memory Foam Shims: Best Budget Selection

Memory foam is an excellent choice for riders on a budget who still require significant pressure relief for their horse. The Cavallo system uses high-quality memory foam that molds to the horse’s unique shape, effectively filling small gaps and redistributing weight away from high-pressure points.

While these shims may not last as long as industrial-grade poly-flex or felt options, they provide immediate, effective relief for horses that occasionally show signs of soreness. They are an accessible entry point for those just beginning to explore the benefits of custom saddle fitting. For the weekend rider, they offer the best balance of affordability and comfort.

How To Identify Saddle Pressure Points On Your Horse

Identifying pressure points requires a systematic approach immediately after removing the saddle. Look for areas where the sweat pattern is absent, creating “dry spots” amidst an otherwise damp coat. These dry spots indicate that the saddle is bridged or pinching, effectively lifting the material off the skin and preventing heat dissipation.

Visible skin irritation, white hairs appearing in specific clusters, or a horse that pins its ears during saddling are further indicators of an improper fit. Always run a flat hand under the saddle before and after the ride to feel for uneven pressure distribution. Catching these signs early prevents long-term tissue damage and behavioral issues.

Correct Shim Placement For Optimal Weight Distribution

Shim placement is all about restoring the saddle’s intended center of gravity. If the saddle is tipping forward, shims should be placed in the front pockets to lift the pommel and level the seat. Conversely, if the horse shows soreness in the lumbar region, rear shims can help redistribute weight onto the stronger muscles of the thoracic spine.

Avoid over-shimming, as adding too much bulk can cause the saddle to lift and become unstable. Always make small, incremental adjustments and test the fit with a short walk or trot. The goal is to provide a balanced base that allows the horse to move freely without obstruction.

Comparing Shim Materials: Felt, Memory Foam, Or Gel

Each shim material serves a specific purpose depending on the environment and the horse’s back shape. Felt is the gold standard for breathability and longevity, making it ideal for endurance and long-duration rides. Memory foam is better suited for contouring and immediate pressure point relief, though it lacks the sheer durability of felt.

Gel inserts are often used for extreme impact absorption but can be heavier and retain more heat than porous materials. Assess the terrain and the intensity of the activity before choosing a material. A thru-hiker in a humid climate will have different needs than a casual rider operating in a cool, dry mountain environment.

Cleaning And Caring For Your Shims After Long Rides

Consistent maintenance extends the life of your shims and keeps the saddle-to-horse interface clean and hygienic. For felt shims, brush away dried sweat and hair after every ride to prevent salt buildup, which can cause skin chafing. Occasionally rinse with cold water and air dry in the shade to maintain the material’s integrity.

Memory foam and poly-flex shims should be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove grit and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals that might degrade the foam’s chemical structure. Proper care ensures that the shims maintain their shape and effectiveness for years of service on the trail.

Taking the time to dial in your saddle fit with the right shims is an investment in your horse’s long-term performance and well-being. Once the equipment is optimized, the focus can shift entirely to the ride itself, the scenery, and the partnership you share with your horse. Equipped with the right gear and a keen eye for fit, every trail becomes an opportunity for a comfortable, successful adventure.