Blankets and pads are used under a saddle to absorb sweat and protect the horse’s back. The standard stock pad is square or slightly rectangular, and is designed to show under the saddle, providing both protection and style. The pads are also used to improve the balance of the saddle and to compensate fit problems. These pads come in many colors and designs, taking advantage of emerging new fabric combinations. At horse shows they are usually color-coordinated to the rider’s attire.

Maintaining clean saddle blankets and pads is easy if you get one that is machine washable. It can however leave tons of hair on your machine. Hanging it on a wire and whacking it a few times after every few rides will prevent dirt from accumulating. It does not have to be washed often. Saddle blankets with mud on it should be brushed first with a soft or medium brush to loosen stubborn dirt.