Will ThinLine pads alter the saddle fit?


Certainly NO.  Because of the firm density of the pad and close contact pad (thinnest on the market) using a ThinLine will NOT alter saddle fit.  It will certainly aid every horses back in so many ways.  From giving a more stable feeling, to helping horses with Kissing Spine, Sway back, and so much more.

As endorsed in the book “Rider’s pain-free back”. I’ve never known a horse to have a back problem if he had a well-fitting saddle and a ThinLine saddle pad.

 

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 saddle pads and Endurance saddle 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.

 

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.

 

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 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.  You can find more details on that here.

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.

 

Is there anything that should be kept in mind while using a ThinLine pad? 


ThinLine pads have pockets for inserts, you can purchase separate ThinLine inserts to adjust saddle fit.  ThinLine tack washes well and does not hold water so they go right back onto the next horse.

 

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.

 

Will the same shims fit all of the ThinLine pads?


Each pad has its own shims.  There are some ThinLine pads that look much the same though can have very small alternations to be perfect.  Be sure to always select the right pad when ordering saddle fitting shims. 

 

What are “shims” and do I need them?


If you need to adjust the fit of your saddle use our Shims  (Inserts). These are made of ThinLine material and are placed in the pocket under the Ultra ThinLine on all shimmable pads.

Shims are most beneficial for saddles which are too wide or for asymmetric, 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.

 

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.

 

How does ThinLine work?


ThinLine is a real unique material that allows reducing impact and pressure into the pad.  You can read all about this here.

 

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.  For any cleaning instruction for your pad, look here.

 

In which cases should (or could) a ThinLine pad be used?


All of our saddle pads include our exclusive ThinLine foam. ThinLine Saddle Pads are offered in numerous textiles and designs to accommodate saddles for each equestrian discipline.

All shimmable pads begin with Ultra ThinLine (4mm, 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 2 different shim thickness choices – Ultra ThinLine and ThinlinePlus.
More info on those shims and saddle fitting solutions, you can find here.

– The ThinLine shim is a single, full-length shim that boosts your pad’s overall thickness from Ultra ThinLine(4mm) to ThinLinePlus (8mm).

– Saddle fitting shims are available in each of the two thickness of ThinLine foam, to adjust (lift) the saddle in one of five areas; full lift, wither freedom, front, bridging, cantle (rear lift).

Ultra ThinLine – only 4mm! – the thinnest

(also called Ultra ThinLine)

    • 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+  – only 8mm! – the thickest

(also called ThinLinePlus)

Discontinued due to the same 95% shock-absorbing properties the Ultra ThinLine we created later on.

    • 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 any other saddle pads.

Whether you chose Ultra ThinLine or ThinLinePlus we guarantee you will see a better connection with your horse. 

 

Are ThinLine saddle pads breathable? 


YES! ThinLine pads are made of an open cell foam that is breathable. While the material may look like a solid piece of foam, it is comprised of millions of little open cells so that air can pass through.  Even though at first sight it looks very closed, water can run through the pad!

 

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *