Why I Use Wool Endurance Pads – A Guide for Beginners

If you’re new to endurance riding, one of the biggest investments you’ll make is in your horse’s comfort. Long hours in the saddle mean every detail of your tack matters—including your saddle pad. I personally swear by wool endurance pads, and here’s why (spoiler: it’s not just because they look cool and you'll fit in with everyone else).

Saddle Fit – Getting It Right

Before we get into the benefits of wool, let’s talk saddle fit. Wool pads are thicker than your standard cotton saddle pads, which means your saddle must be fitted to accommodate the extra bulk. If your saddle fits perfectly with a thin cotton pad, adding a thick wool pad could make it too narrow, creating pressure points and discomfort for your horse. And let’s be honest, nobody wants a sore-backed horse—it’s a one-way ticket to unplanned dismounts - as well as defeating the whole point of trying to provide more comfort.

A good saddle fitter will be able to assess the fit of your saddle with a wool endurance pad in mind. If you’re making the switch, it’s worth having your saddle checked to ensure you’re not unintentionally making your horse uncomfortable.

The Science Behind Wool Pads

Wool isn’t just a traditional material—it’s scientifically proven to be one of the best options for your horse’s back. Here’s why:

Moisture-Wicking – Wool naturally absorbs sweat and moves it away from your horse’s skin, keeping their back drier and reducing the risk of rubbing and sores.
Pressure Distribution – Wool fibres create a cushioning effect that evenly distributes pressure, preventing localised sore spots from forming. Unlike my bank account after another round of endurance entries, wool spreads the load evenly.
Breathability – Unlike synthetic materials, wool is highly breathable, meaning it allows air to circulate, keeping your horse’s back cooler.
Shock Absorption – Research has shown that wool absorbs impact better than many other materials, reducing the strain on your horse’s spine during long-distance rides (source). It’s basically a memory foam mattress for your horse, just without the awkward trip to IKEA.
Durability – A high-quality wool endurance pad, like the Pioneer Endurance Deluxe Wool Numnah, can last years with proper care. Unlike my patience when I loose yet another hoof boot out on a ride.

Why Wool is Perfect for Endurance Riding

In endurance riding, your horse’s back takes hours of continuous movement, and every detail of your tack setup can affect their comfort. Wool’s thermoregulatory properties mean it keeps your horse warm in winter and cool in summer—something synthetic materials struggle to do. This is especially important during the summer when overheating can be a real problem.

Plus, let’s be honest—when you’re 40km into a ride, the last thing you want to worry about is an uncomfortable horse. Wool helps minimise saddle sores and pressure points, making for a happier, more willing partner on the trail. And trust me, a happy horse is the difference between a smooth ride and an unexpected elimination.

Caring for Your Wool Endurance Pad

Wool endurance pads are an investment, and with the right care, they can last for years.

Here are a few simple maintenance tips:

Brush off dirt and hair after every ride (or, like me, leave it for a week and then regret your life choices).
Wash occasionally with wool-friendly detergent or, if you’re like me, with good old horse shampoo—because if it’s good enough for their coat, it’s good enough for their saddle pad!
Avoid high heat—no tumble drying or excessive direct sunlight unless you want a very expensive shrunken saddle pad.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about endurance riding, a wool saddle pad is one of the best investments you can make for your horse’s comfort. Just make sure your saddle fit is adjusted accordingly, and you’ll be well on your way to smoother, more comfortable rides.

If you’d like to chat more about endurance gear or need help with your setup, feel free to get in touch—I’m always happy to help fellow endurance riders, especially if it involves a good cup of tea and a chat about kit!

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