As of right now, I don't NEED one, but I like the idea of having something that will absorb some shock and just help out the horse's backs in general so they stay sound long term.
What half pads do you guys use, and why? Would you get it again, or recommend something else?
I'm going to comment on my own thread, haha. I recently purchased a Thinline half pad for a mare that I ended up selling before I had a chance to use it. I'm wondering if I should send it back, or just use it on my other horse, even though she doesn't seem to need it. I like the idea of using it as "insurance", but at the same time, I could use the money too. Also, it feels SO THIN. I realize that's kind of the point, but I wonder if it can really do that much if it's that thin...
It depends on the horse, the saddle, etc. Does anyone have some you can try?
Under my jumping saddle, on all horses that I ride, I use an older ECP pad, I really love this one, except it never looks clean anymore, but the material has held up nicely over time. It is on the thicker side as well.
Under my dressage saddle, I got a Thinline sheepskin half pad, I bought it because it was half-price and I was going to resell it, but it fit under my dressage saddle when I bought it, so I gave it a shot, and that, along with the CAIR panels in my dressage saddle seem to make both my horses really comfortable. It do also put a shim under the front of the pad when I ride my gelding, as he is a bit downhill and it makes the seat more comfortable for me.