8 Best Bareback Saddle Pads (Parelli & Others)

No matter your age or the discipline you ride, horse riding bareback can be a fun way to spend time with your horse. The key to a good ride is a quality bareback saddle pad.

Bareback saddle pads allow for a more secure seat while bareback riding. They have a simple, contoured design that allows you to have close contact with your horse. Many of them come with adjustable girths, so they can fit different size horses and ponies.

When it comes to bareback riding, you will want a bareback pad that is comfortable and supportive. Not only is riding bareback fun, but it is a great way to improve your balance, skills, and connection with your horse. These bareback horse riding saddle pads allow for ideal contact, while also being comfortable and securely staying in place as you ride.

Here are the Best Bareback Saddle Pads

1. Parelli Natural Horsemanship Pad

Pat and Linda Parelli are famous for their natural horsemanship program. To help equestrians improve their riding skills and better connect with their horses, they have crafted their very own bareback pad.

The suede leather surface on the pad allows for superior grip as you ride, allowing you to focus on your position. To keep your horse comfortable, the underside features a medical felt underpad. The sturdy built-in leather handle allows you to practice different skills as you ride.

The two d-rings with latigos fit with western cinches, allowing for a secure and stable fit. With quality leather and stitching, this durable pad allows you to develop an independent seat.

2. ThinLine Comfort Plus Bareback Pad Black

With shock-absorbing comfort and top-notch stability, this bareback saddle pad gives you a secure seat as you ride. The lightweight design is sleek and allows you to get a good feel of your horse.

The natural seat is non-slip and breathable, so you don’t have to worry about it sliding around on your horse’s back. For your benefit, the bottom is faux suede with PVC on top. This unique design reduces the bounce factor, making your ride more enjoyable.

 The billets are reinforced with leather and a non-slip girth is included. The girth has a total reach of  28-55 inches, allowing it to fit different sized horses.

3. Mustang Manufacturing Company Suede Bareback Pad

If you are looking for an affordable bareback pad, this one is a great choice. Both you and your horse will appreciate the practical and comfortable build.

The inside lining is a soft fleece that provides your horse with support and comfort. To allow for a secure seat, the outside is a durable, tough suede. A convenient handle is sewed onto the front to let you practice different skills.

A soft yet sturdy fleece girth is included to keep your pad in place as you ride. It is able to fit horses of different sizes.

4. Intrepid International Comfort Plus Western Bareback Pad

For ultimate comfort, this pad offers a natural seat with padded cushioning. For a luxurious look and feel, it has an overlay of tuck and roll short nap fleece.

To give you a  little extra grip to help you ride, the seat has plush Velour with micro suede under the leg. The breathable synthetic suede fabric of the saddle contours to the horse’s back for an optimal fit. For additional cushioning on the withers, there is high-density foam padding. 

D-rings are conveniently placed on the pommel and cantle, allowing you to attach any items you need for out on the trails. The girth fits sizes 60 to 86 inches and includes an elasticized system to help keep the pad in place. In addition, the girth is made from breathable material to keep your horse cool.

5. Best Friend Eastern Style Bareback Saddle Pad

For an improved seat as you ride, this bareback pad features synthetic suede for better gripping. The inside is filled with high-density foam for lasting comfort.

 To keep your horse cool and comfortable, the inside lining is a non-slip breathable material. The girth is also a breathable material and fits sizes 53 inches – 76 inches. It features a contoured design to fit snuggly to your horse.

For your convenience, it is very easy to clean, allowing you and your horse to stay comfy. It comes in ten fun colors, allowing you to stand out as you ride.

6. Tough 1 Premium Breathable Bare Back Pad

Whether for in the arena or out on the trails, this pad will keep both you and your horse comfortable and cool. Its simple yet effective design provides you a secure seat so you can focus on your position.

The main body is made of breathable non-compressing mesh and includes a suede patch with silicone dots for top-notch grip on the seat. Not only does this design give you a secure seat, but it will also keep you cool. The girth is also breathable silicone, allowing the pad to securely stay in place. With plenty of room for adjustment, it can fit most horses and ponies.

There are two sets of d-rings at the front and also one in the back. This allows you to attach a  breast collar or saddlebags for trail riding.

7. Toklat Microsuede Bareback Pad

For ultimate comfort and durability, this pad is a great option at a budget-friendly price. It gives you ideal contact for a close seat as you ride.

The ultra-soft microsuede top gives you a non-slip base, so you will feel steady and secure. For additional support and comfort, the inside of the pad has a fleece lining. The adjustable girth is also lined fleece, which allows for a soft and snug fit.

For your convenience, this pad is designed to fit most horses and ponies. In addition, it is also available in five different colors.

8. Best Friend Western Style Bareback Saddle Pad

This western-style bareback pad is the perfect option for avid trail riders. Not only does it provide excellent comfort, but it is also easy to clean and care for.

The synthetic suede on the top allows for a better gripping seat, keeping you secure no matter where you go. For support and comfort, it has a high-density foam in the middle. The inside is made from a non-slip, breathable material, preventing the pad from sliding around. In addition, the adjustable girth is also the same non-slip material and fits sizes 60-86 inches.

The contoured design allows for a snug and secure fit on your horse. For your convenience, it includes two d-rings and two pockets so you can pack all your trail necessities. It comes in five fun and vibrant colors.

Frequently Asked Questions